The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) just announced big changes to help protect Filipino domestic workers (kasambahays) who are working abroad. These changes are part of a new reform package signed by DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac on August 22, 2025.
The most important reform is about higher pay. Starting soon, the minimum monthly wage for Filipino domestic workers will increase from $400 to at least $500. This means our overseas workers will be earning more for the hard and important work they do.
The DMW said this pay increase will be included in all official contracts processed by the department, making it a standard requirement. Filipino migrant offices around the world have also been instructed to talk to host governments and recruitment agencies so this new rule will be followed.
According to the advisory, this increase shows that domestic work is valuable and deserves fair pay — just like any other type of job.
But higher pay is not the only reform. The DMW also announced free annual medical checkups for Filipino domestic workers. These health checks will make sure workers are strong, healthy, and safe while abroad. If a worker suffers from a work-related illness or accident, their foreign employers or recruitment agencies will be responsible for their hospitalization and treatment.
The reform package also includes several new programs to protect workers even more:
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“Know Your Employer” (KYE) Protocol – Domestic workers must meet their employers through a video call before their contracts are finalized. This ensures transparency and trust.
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“Kumusta Kabayan?” Digital Welfare Monitoring System – A digital tool that allows the DMW to check on the welfare of OFWs directly.
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Reskilling and Upskilling Programs – Workers will be given training opportunities for career growth and mobility.
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Stricter Standards for Recruitment Agencies – Agencies must provide safe and proper accommodation facilities for workers.
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Whitelisting of Recruitment Agencies – Only agencies with ethical practices and full compliance will be listed as trusted partners.
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DMW AKSYON Fund – Provides legal help and other forms of assistance to protect the rights of workers.
The DMW said these reforms prove the government’s strong commitment to give every Filipino worker decent jobs, fair recruitment, and stronger protection abroad.
There will be a 60-day transition period to put these reforms in place. After that, they will apply to both newly hired workers and those who are renewing contracts.
In short, the government wants every Filipino domestic worker abroad to feel safe, valued, and cared for — not just as employees, but as heroes of the nation.
