The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) launched the “Kabalikat” program here on Monday to enhance the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families and beneficiaries across Northern Mindanao.

DMW Assistant Secretary Jerome Alcantara led the launch, which features a conversation and assistance program for migrant workers.

Alcantara said key developments under the agency include protecting OFWs and prospective applicants from falling victim to illegal recruitment activities initiated through social media.

“We have an agreement with Facebook and TikTok that once we receive information about illegal recruitment activity, we will notify them to take it down,” he said.

Another DMW initiative is to assist families, noting that OFWs who refuse to provide support to dependents can be flagged by their respective agencies and possibly deported.

Kabalikat is a regional convergence and stakeholder engagement initiative that brings together local government units, licensed recruitment agencies and migrant welfare advocates.

The program aims to promote safe, fair, and ethical recruitment; intensify anti-illegal recruitment campaigns; and provide direct assistance and reintegration support to OFWs. (PNA)