December 7, 2025, Seoul. The Philippine Embassy in Seoul, through the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in South Korea, successfully held the 2025 Skills Training Program Graduation Ceremony on December 7, 2025, at the Ramada by Wyndham Seoul Dongdaemun, celebrating the achievements of 360 Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) graduates who completed various livelihood and skills training courses throughout the year.

The graduation ceremony forms part of the “Alagang OWWA” agenda of OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne “PY” Caunan, which prioritizes the holistic welfare, empowerment, and reintegration preparedness of OFWs through continuous skills development and livelihood support.

Welcome Remarks were delivered by Labor Attaché Rosemarie G. Duquez, who commended the graduates for their dedication despite the demands of overseas work. She emphasized that the training programs serve not only as livelihood preparation but also as a meaningful avenue for personal growth, empowerment, and community building among OFWs.

An Inspirational Message was delivered by Her Excellency Ambassador Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez, who highlighted the importance of giving back to the community, encouraging the graduates to use their newly acquired skills not only for personal success but also to uplift fellow Filipinos and contribute to the community.

On behalf of the trainees, Ms. Amie Oh delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude to the Philippine Embassy, MWO, and OWWA, underscoring how the programs fostered entrepreneurship, confidence, and hope for a better future. Mr. Melodino Alao, Jr. likewise expressed appreciation for the trainers, facilitators, and program implementers, describing the Philippine Embassy and MWO–OWWA as a “home away from home” that eases homesickness and strengthens solidarity among OFWs.

Following are the training programs completed, with the corresponding number of participants:

●       Table Setting Training – 26

●       Korean Side Dishes Making – 21

●       Flower Arrangement – 28

●       Soap & Candle Making – 44

●       Perfume & Diffuser Making – 40

●       Meat Processing – 55

●       Basic Photography – 10

●       Advance Sewing – 16

●       Baking 101 – 61

●       Barista Training – 59

Closing Remarks were delivered by Welfare Officer Cornelia DG. Chanco, who congratulated the graduates for their perseverance and commitment to self-improvement. She likewise expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all the trainers and facilitators for their dedication, patience, and invaluable contributions in empowering the OFWs through quality skills training. She emphasized that the success of the program would not have been possible without the selfless efforts of the trainers who generously shared their time, knowledge, and expertise.

The MWO–OWWA 2025 Skills Training Program reflects the continuing commitment of the Philippine Government to protect, empower, and prepare OFWs for sustainable livelihoods—whether abroad or upon reintegration into the Philippines. Through the Alagang OWWA agenda, the agency continues to deliver inclusive, responsive, and transformative programs that strengthen Filipino workers and their families.

The event concluded with a festive atmosphere as the graduates, embassy officials, and partners shared early Christmas greetings, reinforcing the spirit of unity, gratitude, and hope among the Filipino community in South Korea. END