The Philippines and Finland have moved to deepen cooperation in promoting safe and fair labor mobility for Filipino professionals and skilled workers.
According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), officials from both countries convened in Helsinki on Wednesday, September 17, for the first Joint Committee Meeting on Skills Mobility. The gathering marked a significant step in strengthening labor ties while safeguarding the rights of Filipino workers abroad.
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Building Ethical Pathways
The committee was created to develop frameworks for ethical recruitment, skills recognition, and worker protection. Its work also focuses on meeting Finland’s labor market needs while giving Filipino workers secure opportunities overseas.
During the session, participants tackled the draft of a Joint Declaration of Intent, shared updates on each nation’s skills mobility policies, and considered a possible Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize collaboration. Both parties agreed to continue dialogues and refine next steps in institutionalizing the partnership.
DMW Assistant Secretary Levinson Alcantara headed the Philippine delegation, joined by embassy and labor officials. Finland’s team included representatives from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, the Finnish Immigration Service, Work in Finland, and the City of Helsinki.
What This Means for OFWs
For overseas Filipino workers, especially those aiming to build careers in Europe, the collaboration offers more than just policy exchanges. Stronger safeguards, clearer pathways for credential recognition, and a commitment to ethical hiring practices mean that OFWs can expect greater fairness, protection, and stability in their work opportunities abroad.
Ultimately, this partnership provides hope for a safer and more empowering migration experience for Filipino families who rely on overseas employment.
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