PHILIPPINES: The Anti-Red Tape Authority has called for faster, clearer, and more humane government service for overseas Filipino workers and their families.
ARTA Secretary Ernesto V. Perez made the call during the Department of Migrant Workers’ opening of its month-long observance of Ease of Doing Business Month. The activity was held during the flag-raising ceremony on May 11, 2026, at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City.
Perez said OFWs deserve “red carpet” service, not red tape, because of their sacrifices and contributions to the country.
Contents
Why Faster Processing Matters to OFWs
For many OFWs, government transactions are not just paperwork. They are tied to jobs, travel, family support, and urgent needs.
Perez said every hour saved in document processing is extra time OFWs can spend with their families. This matters because many migrant workers have limited time in the Philippines before returning abroad.
He also reminded public servants that behind every document is a person, behind every transaction is a family, and behind every reform is a chance to improve lives.
DMW Renews Anti-Corruption Commitments
As part of EODB Month, the DMW renewed its commitment to fight corruption and red tape in its services.
The agency highlighted its No Gift and No Fixer policies. These policies are meant to protect OFWs from people who ask for favors, gifts, or payments in exchange for faster processing.
The DMW also said it will continue digitalizing its services so OFWs can access programs and transactions in a faster and easier way.
OWWA Joins Push for Clearer Services
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration also joined the 2026 Ease of Doing Business Month observance led by ARTA.
OWWA said it continues to simplify its processes for OFWs and their families. The agency said its goal is to make transactions faster, clearer, and more reliable.
For OFWs, this can mean less confusion when asking for help, applying for benefits, or checking program requirements.
“Serbisyong May Puso” Beyond the Slogan
OWWA said efficient service is not only a goal, but part of its promise of Serbisyong May Puso for every OFW.
This year’s observance also highlights transparency, accountability, ethical governance, and responsible stewardship.
For migrant workers and their families, the message is simple: government service should not feel like a maze. It should be easier to understand, faster to access, and fair for everyone who needs support.
