Seoul, 19 July 2026– As part of its continuing commitment to promote the economic empowerment and sustainable reintegration of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), the Philippine Embassy in Seoul, through the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) – South Korea, in partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), successfully conducted the third and final installment of its Skills Training Series with TESDA entitled "Small Business, Big Impact: 21st Century Entrepreneurial Skills for MSMEs" on 19 July 2026 at the Sentro Rizal Hall, Philippine Embassy in Seoul. 

The training brought together OFWs and Overseas Filipinos (OFs) from different regions across the Republic of Korea who aspire to establish or strengthen their own businesses. The initiative aimed to equip participants with essential entrepreneurial competencies, practical business strategies, and an entrepreneurial mindset that will enable them to create sustainable livelihood opportunities upon their return to the Philippines or even while working abroad. 

Ambassador Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez underscored the importance of lifelong learning in her inspirational remarks. Stressing that every learning opportunity can open doors to new ventures and better economic prospects, the Ambassador encouraged the participants to make the most of the training, saying, "What better way to spend your Sundays than giving space to new learning opportunities and possibly, new ventures." Ambassador Fernandez also encouraged everyone to actively engage in the learning sessions, "Try to absorb as much, to ask questions so you can share the information to so many others," reminding them that "the world will become a better place if we practice paying goodwill forward."

In her welcome remarks, Labor Attaché Atty. Rosemarie G. Duquez, underscored that the seminar forms part of the Philippine government's continuing efforts to equip OFWs and OFs with practical entrepreneurial knowledge and business management skills. She emphasized that successful entrepreneurship requires not only a good business idea but also the right strategies to achieve long-term financial stability, reintegration, and sustainable opportunities for their families and communities. She encouraged the participants to maximize the learning opportunity and continue investing in their personal and professional growth.

The highlight of the activity was the comprehensive lecture delivered by Ms. Charmaine P. Fider, TVET Trainer, TESDA NCR, PMDTAC, who shared valuable insights on 21st-century entrepreneurial competencies for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Through engaging discussions and interactive learning activities, participants gained a deeper understanding of the essential skills and mindset needed to establish and sustain successful enterprises in today's competitive business environment.  

To close the session, Welfare Officer Cornelia DG. Chanco reiterated the OWWA commitment to providing relevant livelihood and skills development programs that empower OFWs not only as workers but also as future entrepreneurs, community leaders, and contributors to national development. 

The event was facilitated by Ms. Joey Fiedacan with technical support from Ms. Kim Kyung Soo. Participants actively engaged in the learning sessions by sharing experiences, reflecting a strong commitment to preparing for future business opportunities and achieving financial resilience through entrepreneurship. 

The partnership between the Philippine Embassy in Seoul, MWO, OWWA South Korea, and TESDA continues to empower OFWs to become financially resilient, create sustainable livelihood opportunities, and contribute to economic growth both in the Republic of Korea and upon their eventual return to the Philippines.  END