President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has announced that the Philippines will soon open a migrant workers’ office in Cambodia to strengthen protection for overseas Filipino workers. The announcement was made during his three-day state visit to Phnom Penh, where he met with members of the Filipino community on Sunday.
Marcos explained that the office will be dedicated to ensuring the welfare and rights of Filipinos living and working in Cambodia. He said he had already instructed Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac to act on this plan immediately so that services can be made available as soon as possible.
In his message to overseas workers, the President stressed that the government’s duty to its citizens does not end once they leave the country. He said it remains the responsibility of the Philippines to make sure workers abroad are supported and their rights are protected at all times.
The new office will work closely with the Philippine embassy in Cambodia to provide faster and more direct assistance to workers. Marcos said this will give migrant workers easier access to government services, especially when they face work-related issues or emergencies.
A migrant workers office is seen as an important lifeline for Filipinos abroad. It acts as a direct link to the Philippines and gives access to services such as welfare programs, legal aid, and assistance in cases of abuse or exploitation. It also ensures that workers have a trusted place to go whenever they need support.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) explained that these offices are not only meant to protect workers but also to guide them throughout their employment journey. They help with overseas job placements, provide counseling, and assist in reintegration programs once Filipinos return home after their contracts end.
Marcos highlighted that the government recognizes the sacrifices of overseas workers who continue to contribute to the country’s economy. He assured them that opening such offices is part of his administration’s effort to give back and to make sure their hard work abroad is matched with proper care and protection.
The establishment of a migrant workers’ office in Cambodia reflects the government’s commitment to support its people wherever they are. For many Filipinos in Phnom Penh and across the country, this move brings reassurance that their concerns will be heard and acted upon directly by the Philippine government.