Phl seeks labor pact with Oman

The Philippines is moving closer to sealing a bilateral labor agreement with the Oman, a development seen to further strengthen protections for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Gulf state.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said talks are already underway, with both sides expressing optimism about reaching an agreement soon.

“Meron kasing napipintong talks tayo ngayon toward a bilateral agreement. So, napag-usapan din yun at yung malaking posibilidad na malapit na, malapit nang magkaroon ng kumbaga ay agreement, bilateral agreement with Oman,” Cacdac said upon his arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 following an official mission in Muscat.

Cacdac met with Oman’s Labor Minister Mahad bin Said bin Ali Baawain, along with Philippine Ambassador Noralyn Jubaira Baja and other officials, during his April 27–30 visit.

Beyond the prospective agreement, discussions also centered on strengthening worker protections and improving the welfare of Filipino seafarers.

“Ang layon ko naman doon ay patuloy na ipahatid sa kanila yung pasasalamat natin sa Sultanate of Oman, His Majesty the Sultan of Oman, sa tulong na binibigay sa ating mga OFW,” he said.

Cacdac highlighted Oman’s role in assisting Filipino seafarers caught in high-risk incidents, including the release of crew members from vessels such as the Galaxy Leader and Eternity Sea in 2025.

He also conveyed the Philippines’ solidarity with Oman amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, noting shared concerns over regional stability and migrant worker safety.

During the visit, the labor chief met with more than 100 Filipino community leaders and reported that while conditions for OFWs remain generally stable, some workers—particularly in the hospitality sector—have been affected by regional disruptions and are seeking government assistance.

He also engaged recruitment agencies, noting that around 80 percent of the nearly 50,000 OFWs in Oman are domestic workers. Encouragingly, 25 agencies have committed to voluntary reforms, including setting a minimum monthly salary of USD500 for incoming domestic workers.

Further details on the proposed bilateral agreement are expected to be announced once negotiations are finalized.