The Philippines and Botswana are strengthening bilateral cooperation to better protect migrant workers, as both countries explore measures covering worker orientation, welfare assistance, emergency response, repatriation, and the safe return of workers.

In a news release Wednesday, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said measures to boost cooperation on labor migration and skills development for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) were discussed with Botswana Vice President Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe during a courtesy call at the DMW Central Office on Tuesday.

“We remain committed to joining in the promotion of fair, ethical, and sustainable labor migration, including responsible recruitment practices, access to social protection, and opportunities for upskilling and reskilling our workers,” he said.

During the meeting, Cacdac said both countries reaffirmed their commitment to continued dialogue and knowledge exchange towards strengthening labor systems that would benefit OFWs.

The talks focused on ensuring that migrant workers have access to protection and support throughout their employment abroad.

Cacdac said the Philippines would continue working with Botswana to promote fair, ethical, and sustainable labor migration, including responsible recruitment and access to social protection.

Both countries also committed to explore practical cooperation on worker orientation and welfare assistance, mechanisms for responding to emergencies involving migrant workers, and repatriation measures to ensure the safe and dignified return of workers to their home countries.

Beyond immediate worker assistance, the Philippines and Botswana also agreed to maintain open communication and pursue technology-enabled engagements for knowledge-sharing on migrant labor and worker welfare. (PNA)