The Department of Tourism (DOT) is working with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to help returning OFWs start businesses and find jobs in the local tourism sector.
This is part of the whole-of-nation reintegration program aimed at supporting Filipinos who have worked abroad and their families.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac led a flag-raising ceremony and AKSYON Fund distribution at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong. The event was part of the 2025 National Women’s Month celebration.
“From the beginning of the Marcos Administration, our President has articulated how important the contributions of overseas Filipino workers are, not just to the Philippines, but to the rest of the world,” said Secretary Frasco. “And therefore, his directive was for there to be a whole-of-nation approach to honor the work of OFWs.”
The DOT and DMW have programs like “Bisita, Be My Guest,” which lets OFWs invite foreigners to visit the Philippines and receive rewards, and “Balik Bayani sa Turismo,” offering free tourism skills training for returning workers and their families.
“I’m very happy to report to you that through our partnership with the DMW, nagkaroon na po tayo ng mga graduates doon sa Pangasinan under the Balik Bayani sa Turismo Program,” she added. Some graduates have already started their own tourism businesses.
Secretary Cacdac also thanked DOT for helping provide local income opportunities. “Walang OFW na ayaw umuwi for good. That’s why our partnerships with the DOT is a huge help for our OFWs to come home with their families while having a sustainable source of income in the local tourism sector,” he said.
