The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) cited the need to eliminate gender biases and discrimination in the workforce as it called for a gender-responsive approach to ensure equal opportunities and protection for women overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

In a news release on Thursday, the DMW said this is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s advocacy of recognizing the increasing role of women in nation-building and the need to provide them with more opportunities, greater confidence, and a stronger voice in society.

In her speech at the Women OFW Conference in Makati City on Wednesday, DMW Undersecretary Dominique Rubia-Tutay underscored the importance of upskilling women OFWs to enhance their employment opportunities locally and internationally.

She also noted that women OFWs now dominate various fields of work but are sometimes undervalued by the economic systems.

“Let us continue to build on the foundation of women’s empowerment, independence, confidence, and hope, such values that define every Filipina’s strength and contribution to society,” Tutay said.

The DMW reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding access to training programs that would improve the career prospects of women migrants.

The Women OFW Conference, held in line with the celebration of National Women’s Month, underscored the significance of stronger legal protection and welfare programs, particularly under Republic Act 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women, which guarantees protection against gender-based violence, mental health and psychosocial support, and workplace equality and fair treatment. (PNA)