For a wider reach of provincial programs for migrants, the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) is spearheading the conduct of series of Migration and Development Fora (MDF) to OFW organizations in different municipalities.

Provincial PESO Head Francisco T. Heler, Jr. said the activity is intended to create awareness of the various programs for OFWs and their families being facilitated by the local and national government, and other partner organizations.

“The Province of Iloilo has the largest concentration of OFWs in Western Visayas and we wanted them and their families to know that there are beneficial assistance and programs available for them, especially in their times of great need,” said Heler.

The MDF also facilitates the meeting and discussion between participants and representatives of agencies with programs and services related to migration.

The Provincial PESO, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and ATIKHA, Inc., form the pool of resource speakers in the MDF.

As of date, the Provincial PESO has conducted fora with municipalities of Estancia, Pototan, Oton, Guimbal, Tubungan, Tigbauan, Janiuay, New Lucena, Badiangan, Barotac Viejo and Barotac Nuevo.

Other OFW Organizations and local government units may also schedule their MDF by coordinating with the Provincial PESO. (Jayrel Encontro)