MAKATI CITY, Philippines — The Philippine Overseas Construction Board (POCB) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on 25 August 2026, strengthening cooperation to support Philippine construction companies and  Filipino professionals and skilled workers who continue to contribute to major projects around the world.

The signing ceremony, held in Makati City, was led by POCB Chairman, Engr. Isidro A. Consunji and DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, together with officials and representatives from both organizations.

The agreement establishes a framework for closer collaboration between POCB and DMW in promoting initiatives that support workforce preparedness, industry development, market access, and international engagement for the Philippine construction sector.

Chairman Consunji welcomed DMW and emphasized that the success of the construction industry is ultimately built on the people behind every project.

“Behind every structure is something far more important: the people, the workers,”  Chairman Consunji said, recognizing the contributions of Filipino construction professionals and skilled workers who have helped deliver major projects across the Middle East, Asia, Oceania, and other parts of the world.

He noted that Filipino builders continue to earn the trust of international partners through their professionalism, adaptability, technical expertise, and strong work ethic.

As the global construction landscape evolves through emerging technologies, increasing demand for specialized skills, and growing competition for talent, Chairman Consunji underscored the importance of ensuring that Filipino workers remain prepared, supported, and globally competitive.

“Together, let us continue opening doors, creating opportunities, and demonstrating to the world what Filipino builders can achieve,” he added.

For his part, Secretary Cacdac highlighted the importance of government and industry working together to create meaningful opportunities for Filipinos seeking to build careers overseas.

“The strength of the Philippine construction industry lies not only in the projects we build, but in the people who make them possible..”

The partnership reflects the shared commitment of both the Philippine government and Industry to strengthen support systems for Filipino workers while helping Philippine construction companies expand their presence in international markets.

As the implementing arm of the Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines (CIAP) for overseas construction promotion, POCB continues to pursue initiatives that enhance the global competitiveness of Philippine contractors and construction-related enterprises”.

In her closing address, POCB Executive Director Doris U. Gacho  reaffirmed both organizations’ commitment to translating the partnership into concrete programs and initiatives that will strengthen the Philippine construction industry, enhance the capabilities of its workforce, and support the continued development of Filipino construction professionals deployed overseas through projects and contracts secured by POCB-registered contractors.

For more information on POCB’s programs supporting overseas opportunities, workforce development, and international business engagement for Philippine construction companies and professionals, interested parties may contact the office via email at POCB@construction.gov.ph or mobile at +63 917 842 2254.

For updates and announcements, follow POCB on Facebook at Philippine Overseas Construction Board (POCB) and visit the CIAP website at www.construction.gov.ph.