THE Philippines and South Korea have signed an agreement for a program aimed at protecting and empowering Filipino farm workers abroad.
In a statement, the Department of Agriculture (DA), along with other government agencies, signed a new joint memorandum for the implementation of Korea’s Seasonal Workers Program (SWP).
Other government agencies included were the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
The agency said the agreement would unite national and local efforts in deploying Filipino seasonal workers to South Korea. It would also guarantee fair labor practices, legal protection, and proper welfare, while promoting ethical recruitment and agricultural cooperation between the two nations.
Under the deal, the DA will initiate agricultural training, livelihood programs, and reintegration support for returning workers.
The agency will also work closely with local governments and the DMW to ensure deployments match the country’s agricultural priorities and global standards.
The memorandum also called for an integrated support system to bolster monitoring, welfare assistance, and coordination with Korean local governments. This would ensure Filipino workers receive the care and protection they deserve, the agency said.
‘This partnership ensures that our seasonal workers are protected, empowered, and equipped to contribute to both nations’ agricultural growth,’ the DA said.
‘The deal stands as a clear commitment: the Philippines is building global partnerships to uplift its farmers and secure better opportunities for Filipino workers abroad.’
Boost aquaculture
In May, the DA said it will receive a $16- million grant from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (Koica) to advance local aquaculture development and community-based agribusiness.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and Koica Country Director Jung Youngsun signed the Records of Discussions (RDs) to bankroll two separate grant assistance projects.
The $10-million grant would fund the project aimed at helping local fishermen boost their income by enhancing aquaculture production and strengthening the value chain, which will run for seven years.
The remaining $6-million funding would diversify income sources and strengthen the agricultural activities of marginal farmers in the region through the establishment of an Agribusiness Incubation Center in Zambales and the enhancement of the existing DA Technology Business Incubation facility in Tarlac.
Koica previously provided $20.78 million worth of grants to the Philippine government, which includes three other projects on agri-mechanization development, smart agriculture, and dairy herd improvement currently being implemented by the DA.