DMW investigates PHP1.4B unauthorized OWWA land deal

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is investigating a PHP1.4-billion land acquisition deal by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), which allegedly proceeded without approval from the OWWA board.

Former OWWA administrator Arnell Ignacio was removed from his post due to 'loss of trust and confidence' over this deal, while Patricia Caunan has taken over as the new administrator.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated that they are investigating whether other officials were involved in the unauthorized land purchase beyond Ignacio, with multiple meetings held with the OWWA Board of Trustees.

Cacdac confirmed that the property was intended for a 'halfway house' to accommodate returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) during emergencies but lacked board approval as mandated by law.

The PHP1.4-billion transaction involved public funds originally earmarked under the General Appropriations Act for OFW repatriation, yet was diverted without proper oversight and transparency.

Cacdac said the OWWA Board of Trustees has identified at least six procedural lapses in the execution of the project, including bypassing full board approval.