The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on November 13, 2025, at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City. This collaboration aims to improve the welfare of Filipino seafarers and their families, aligning with the DMW’s mandates and ISWAN’s global mission to support seafarers’ welfare. The signing was attended by key officials, including DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and ISWAN Chief Executive Simon Grainge.
DMW–ISWAN Boost Seafarer Welfare
The strategic alliance outlined in the MOU creates a framework for collaboration on various initiatives, including welfare assistance, health promotion, crisis response, and policy dissemination. Both organizations agree to respect data privacy and follow the Philippines’ Data Privacy Act of 2012. This partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to enhancing the support systems for Filipino seafarers by providing valuable resources and programs that meet their needs effectively.
Under the MOU, the DMW will assist with referrals of seafarers and their families, provide program orientations, and support health advocacy initiatives. In return, ISWAN will offer 24/7 multilingual helpline services, extend emergency aid through the Seafarers Emergency Fund, distribute vital health and well-being materials, and provide humanitarian support to seafarers affected by piracy or trauma. Additionally, ISWAN will contribute to the DMW’s Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS) on mental health support. This partnership is expected to last for two years but may be renewed, marking a significant step forward in ensuring that Filipino seafarers, who contribute greatly to the global economy, receive the comprehensive care and support they deserve, both at sea and ashore.
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Source: dmw
