DMW Secretary Cacdac Denies Reports of 40,000 OFWs Stranded in the Philippines
In a televised interview on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac firmly rejected allegations that approximately 40,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are currently stranded and unable to proceed to their employment destinations in the Middle East. Cacdac emphasized that the term "stranded" is inappropriate and misleading in this context.
Questioning the Terminology of "Stranded"
Cacdac argued that it is impossible for OFWs to be stranded within their own country. He stated, "There can be no OFWs stranded in their own country. I question the term 'stranded' because there are no Filipinos that are stranded in the Philippines." According to the secretary, these workers are not in a dire situation as they have the opportunity to be with their families in their own homes, which contrasts sharply with the implication of being abandoned or helpless.
Government Assistance and Family Support
The Department of Migrant Workers, in collaboration with other government agencies, is actively providing various forms of assistance to these OFWs. Cacdac highlighted that the workers are receiving support and that many new opportunities are being opened up for them during this period. "They have their families with them, and many opportunities are being opened up for them," he added, underscoring the proactive measures taken to ensure their well-being.
Recruitment Sector's Claims Contradicted
This statement comes in response to earlier reports from the recruitment sector, which revealed that around 40,000 OFWs destined for Middle Eastern nations are currently stranded in the Philippines. These workers are reportedly staying in accommodation centers managed by their deploying agencies or have been sent back to their provinces due to deployment delays. However, Cacdac's remarks aim to clarify the situation, asserting that the workers are not stranded but rather in a transitional phase with adequate support systems in place.
The ongoing dialogue between government officials and recruitment agencies continues to address the challenges faced by OFWs, ensuring that their rights and welfare are prioritized amidst global employment uncertainties.
