20 January 2024, Seoul-The Philippine Embassy in Seoul and the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) held a special forum entitled "D2 to E-visa: Employment Documentation for Students Switching to Work Visa" on 20 January 2024 via zoom.

The pioneering online forum, which was organized in cooperation with the Pinoy Iskolars in Korea (PIKO), aimed to guide participants in navigating required processes and documentation when transitioning from student to work visa status.

In her opening message, Ambassador Ma. Theresa B. Dizon - De Vega conveyed the importance of keeping abreast and engaged with the changing policies on immigration in the Republic of Korea as well as the Philippine regulations on employment documentation for OFWs. "This seminar is part of the Embassy's continuing efforts to educate, and by educating and informing, we are empowering our overseas Filipinos including our student sector," the Ambassador said. Noting that there are a number of Filipino scholars and students who are transitioning, or have already transitioned to working visa status, Ambassador de Vega urged them to be continually informed of key developments and guided by existing regulations.

Vice Consul Jilliane Joyce D. Cornista presented the Policy Development and Opportunities for International Students in Korea, highlighting the directions under the 5-year Immigration Plan of the Korean Government. On the other hand, Labor Attache Ma. Celeste M. Valderrama, together with AS Manolo Barotilla of the MWO discussed the procedures on contract verification and obtaining Overseas Employment Certificates (OEC) for students who already are, or are planning to become OFWs.

In his closing message, PIKO President Kenneth Lagamayo thanked the Philippine Embassy for actively conducting information sessions, seminars, and activities that are responsive to the needs of the overseas Filipino community in South Korea, especially for the students. He re-affirmed the commitment of PIKO to promote the welfare of the overseas Filipino students and continually engage with the Embassy for this purpose. END