The memorandums are supposed to be signed in order to formalize the cooperation between the DMW and the partner countries.
DMW Undersecretary for Policy and International Cooperation Mr. Caunan stated that countries interested in hiring Filipino workers include Hungary, Austria, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Oman, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar.
The labor market in Saudi Arabia seems to be very promising. The Saudi authorities declared they are open to hire up to one million Filipinos, especially in hotels, restaurants, and touristic resorts.
Special hiring program for people interested in job opportunities in Saudi Arabia will be launched by the DMW soon. Moreover, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) will create a sub-committee, which will assure that country-specific pre-departure orientation seminars will be organized to familiarize candidates with the specifics of the host countries.
The DMW also aims to create stronger ties with the United Arab Emirates. In order to do so, a series of meetings will be scheduled to discuss the specific conditions for the Filipino workers. The DMW wants to find ways to avoid human trafficking and illegal recruitment.
The DMW plans to hold talks with representatives of other countries interested in foreign workers. In September 2023, a joint committee meeting between the Philippines and Qatar will take place, and cooperation between the Philippines and Oman will be discussed as well.
In Europe, Austria is one of the countries actively recruiting Filipino workers. In the near future, the Philippines is expected to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation with Austria, while other European countries, including Portugal, might follow.
According to Mr. Caunan, Austria expressed interest in hiring about 200,000 Filipino workers in 98 occupations, especially in healthcare. To motivate potential candidates, Austria is ready to simplify the process of moving to the country, as well as the process of recognizing professional qualifications. Austria might be an attractive destination for Filipino workers because of high salaries (2,500–2,800 euros), 14th month pay, or reunification with family members. In the long term, overseas workers can potentially obtain permanent residency or even citizenship.