Seoul, 5 July 2026 – Reinforcing its commitment to the welfare, skills development, and lifelong learning 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 livelihood skills training entitled "Kitchen Confidence: Mastering Food Safety and Sanitation" on 5 July 2026 at the Sentro Rizal Hall, Philippine Embassy in Seoul.

The training gathered OFWs and Overseas Filipinos (OFs) from various sectors across South Korea, equipping them with practical knowledge and industry-standard practices on food safety, sanitation, and proper food handling. The initiative forms part of the Embassy's continuing efforts to enhance the employability, livelihood opportunities, and overall well-being of the Filipino community abroad.

The program formally opened with welcome remarks delivered by Welfare Officer Cornelia DG. Chanco, who emphasized that the training was the realization of a long-held vision of bringing TESDA-facilitated skills development programs to the Filipino community in Korea. She underscored that food safety and sanitation are not merely technical competencies but essential life skills that participants can apply in their workplaces, homes, and future entrepreneurial ventures. She encouraged everyone to actively participate, maximize the learning opportunity, and continue investing in themselves through lifelong learning.

The event was graced by Her Excellency Ambassador Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez, who delivered an inspiring message highlighting the significance of food safety as a shared responsibility that goes beyond cooking. The Ambassador emphasized that excellence in food preparation involves proper planning, hygiene, cleanliness, environmental responsibility, and a mindful attitude toward serving others. She encouraged participants to value quality, professionalism, and continuous improvement while recognizing the important role that Filipino workers play in the food and hospitality industries. The Ambassador likewise commended the MWO-OWWA team for initiating the timely and relevant training and expressed her hope that the participants would gain valuable knowledge and practical skills that they could apply in their respective workplaces and future endeavors.

The highlight of the program was the comprehensive lecture conducted by Ms. Charmaine P. Fider, TVET Trainer and Assessor / TESDA Specialist II, who shared her expertise on the principles and best practices of food safety and sanitation. Through engaging discussions, practical demonstrations, and interactive games, participants learned the importance of personal hygiene, proper food handling, contamination prevention, sanitation standards, waste segregation, and maintaining safe food preparation environments. The interactive activities further enhanced participant engagement, making the learning experience both educational and enjoyable.

Participants actively exchanged experiences, asked questions, and demonstrated their understanding through various learning exercises, reflecting their enthusiasm to acquire competencies that could strengthen their professional qualifications and support future livelihood opportunities.

In her closing remarks, Labor Attaché Rosemarie G. Duquez expressed her appreciation to TESDA, the resource speaker, and all participants for their commitment to continuous learning. She reaffirmed the Migrant Workers Office's dedication to providing programs that empower OFWs through skills enhancement, capacity building, and opportunities that contribute to their personal and professional growth.

The program was smoothly facilitated by Administrative Staff Jaylord M. Caronan, who served as the Master of Ceremonies, with technical support provided by Ms. Joey Fiedacan and Mr. Kim Kyung Soo, ensuring the successful delivery of the training.

The successful conduct of "Kitchen Confidence: Mastering Food Safety and Sanitation" demonstrates the Philippine Embassy in Seoul, MWO, OWWA South Korea, and TESDA's shared commitment to empowering Filipinos overseas through relevant, accessible, and high-quality skills development programs. By investing in knowledge and practical competencies, the partnership continues to strengthen the capabilities of OFWs, preparing them for greater employment opportunities, entrepreneurship, and safer, healthier communities both in South Korea and upon their eventual return to the Philippines. END