Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — July 27, 2025
On July 20, 2025, a momentous celebration of learning and achievement took place at the Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur, where 215 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) graduated from various skills training programs organized by the OWWA–MWO Kuala Lumpur.
The OWWA Skills Training Graduation Day brought together OFWs, volunteer trainers, and Philippine Embassy officials for an inspiring afternoon of recognition, testimonials, and hope. The event opened with a warm welcome from Welfare Officer Rosanna G. Siray, who acknowledged the presence of embassy officials led by H.E. Ambassador Maria Angela A. Ponce. She stressed the value of spending rest days productively and announced the upcoming second semester training programs for 2025, including the second TESDA Overseas Online Assessment in Malaysia.
During her Inspirational Talk, Labor Attaché II Jocelyn B. Ortega emphasized the importance of OWWA services and programs, particularly those that prepare OFWs for long-term reintegration. “We urge our OFWs to invest in their futures by exploring entrepreneurship and applying their acquired skills,” she said.
The event’s highlight was the keynote address by Ambassador Ponce, who formally confirmed the graduates and led the distribution of Certificates of Completion. She celebrated the trainees’ dedication and recognized the invaluable contributions of volunteers and trainers. Her address included motivational stories of previous graduates who turned their skills into successful livelihood ventures.
Graduates completed various training courses, with the following numbers:
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Dance Lessons – 26
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Basic Bahasa Language – 14
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Basic Barista – 32
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Basic Computer Literacy – 31
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Basic Microsoft Office – 35
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Basic Household First Aid – 39
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Beauty Care & Hair Culture – 18
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Nail Art / Eyebrow Threading & Shaping – 17
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Bread & Pastry Production – 35
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Advanced Baking & Cake Decorating – 39
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Basic Crochet – 21
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Reflexology & Body Massage – 11
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Arnis (Filipino Martial Arts) – 16
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Soap and Perfume Making – 41
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Fashion Jewelry Making – 37
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Dressmaking – 15
Graduating OFW Michelle G. Rodriguez and trainer Marcela M. Caboylo gave emotional testimonials about how the training changed their lives, underscoring the empowering impact of education and community support.
The event concluded with a heartfelt message from Consul General Roussel R. Reyes, who emphasized the Philippine government’s enduring commitment to OFW welfare and development.
“You didn’t just finish a training course—you took a step toward a better future,” Reyes said. “Your hard work and willingness to learn are what make the Filipino truly world-class.”
The day was not only a celebration of academic milestones, but also a reaffirmation of the strength, hope, and resilience of the Filipino spirit abroad.
Mabuhay ang mga bagong graduates! Mabuhay ang ating mga OFWs!
