Labour cooperation between the Sultanate of Oman and the Philippines is advancing through strengthened institutional coordination, shared policy goals, and an increased focus on migrant worker welfare and skills development, according to Hans Leo J Cacdac, Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers of the Philippines. Speaking during his visit to Muscat on May 2, Cacdac described the bilateral relationship as “very strong” and “vibrant,” highlighting ongoing daily communication between the Philippine embassy, the migrant workers’ office, and Omani authorities, especially the Ministry of Labour.
This visit is part of continued high-level engagements between the two countries, including recent discussions with Oman’s Minister of Labour, Dr Mahad bin Said Baowain, at regional events like the Global Labour Market Conference and the World Government Summit. Both nations have also collaborated closely within the Abu Dhabi Dialogue framework, where Oman recently transferred its chairmanship to the Philippines.
Cacdac noted that these interactions have yielded tangible results in enhancing labour governance and aligning bilateral cooperation with wider regional strategies. He emphasized Oman’s evolving regulatory environment and leadership commitment, particularly from His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, toward the protection and welfare of migrant workers, which has increased confidence among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Oman.
Looking forward, both countries plan to deepen their collaboration in welfare protection, social safeguards, and skills development. As the Philippines assumes the Abu Dhabi Dialogue chairmanship through 2028, it aims to promote upskilling initiatives and stronger social protection systems, areas where Omani support plays a crucial role. Cacdac stressed that upskilling is a central priority, with efforts focused on enabling workers to advance into higher-value roles via training and certification, reflecting discussions underway at both bilateral and multilateral levels.
The economic aspect of labour mobility remains significant, with remittances continuing to support Filipino households, especially amid global uncertainties. Although Oman accounts for a smaller share of remittances compared to other Gulf countries, Cacdac highlighted the importance of both financial and social remittances — the latter including skills, knowledge, and experience returned by migrant workers. Reintegration programs in the Philippines, strengthened under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s administration, aim to recognize skills acquired abroad and assist re-employment across sectors such as healthcare and education.
On the ground, Filipino workers are valued in Oman for their adaptability, communication abilities, professionalism, and willingness to exceed job expectations — qualities that sustain demand despite changing labour market conditions. Discussions are also ongoing to standardize employment contracts to enhance transparency, prevent disputes, and ensure fair compensation aligned with workers’ skills and experience.
Concluding his visit, Cacdac reiterated the Philippine government’s commitment to supporting its nationals in Oman amid global economic challenges, affirming efforts to make government programs and services accessible to overseas workers regardless of their location.