Philippines and Romania Strengthen Partnership to Protect Filipino Workers Abroad
Published: August 7, 2026
The Philippines and Romania have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the protection, welfare, and rights of Filipino migrant workers in Romania through enhanced labor cooperation and stronger safeguards for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
During a bilateral meeting held in Bucharest, Romania, on August 5, 2026, officials from both countries discussed initiatives aimed at improving migrant worker protection, including the promotion of ethical recruitment practices, greater employer accountability, and the assurance of safe and humane working conditions.
The Philippine delegation was led by Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, who met with Romanian Minister of Labor, Family, Youth and Social Solidarity Dragoș-Nicolae Pîslaru and State Secretary Silvia Monica Dinică.
The meeting was also attended by Philippine Ambassador to Romania Noel E. Servigon, OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan, OIC-Assistant Secretary for Sea-Based Concerns Augusto B. San Diego III, and Labor Attaché Geraldine C. Mendez.
Strengthening Labor Cooperation and Migrant Worker Protection
Both governments agreed to continue expanding labor cooperation between the Philippines and Romania, including efforts to renew the existing bilateral labor framework and conduct the first Joint Committee Meeting under the 2021 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The initiative is expected to further improve coordination between the two countries in promoting safe, orderly, and humane labor migration.
Officials also highlighted the importance of expanding social protection programs for Filipino workers abroad, particularly for women migrant workers, while ensuring that employers uphold their responsibilities in protecting the rights and welfare of their employees.
Romania Implements Stronger Safeguards for Foreign Workers
The Philippine delegation welcomed Romania’s ongoing reforms aimed at improving protections for foreign workers. These measures include stricter recruitment regulations and the prohibition of charging placement fees and other recruitment-related costs to workers.
The reforms are expected to help prevent illegal recruitment practices, reduce exploitation risks, and promote fair employment opportunities for migrant workers.
Support for Filipino Workers Affected by Black Sea Incidents
Following their visit to Tulcea, Romania, the Philippine delegation also addressed the situation of Filipino workers affected by incidents in the Northern Black Sea region.
The delegation paid tribute to the Filipino Chief Engineer who lost his life and met with more than 200 Filipino workers employed at VARD Tulcea to personally check on their condition, listen to their concerns, and ensure that they continue receiving government assistance and support.
Continued Government Support for OFWs
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), together with the DMW and other government agencies, continues to strengthen programs dedicated to protecting and supporting Filipino workers worldwide.
Through stronger partnerships with host countries, the Philippine government aims to ensure safer workplaces, fair treatment, and adequate assistance for OFWs and their families.
The Philippines and Romania’s renewed cooperation reflects a shared commitment toward stronger labor protection and a more secure future for Filipino workers overseas.
