The Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO), which serves as the Philippines’ de facto embassy in Taiwan, has welcomed Taiwan’s plan to establish its first cross-border recruitment center in the Philippines, set to begin operations in the first quarter of 2026.
In a statement released on December 30, MECO Chairperson and Resident Representative Corazon Avecilla-Padiernos noted that this initiative reflects the growing partnership between the two countries.
“This initiative reflects the growing partnership between the Philippines and Taiwan and marks an important step toward more ethical, transparent, and centered recruitment,” the statement read.
According to the statement, MECO plans to coordinate closely with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and relevant agencies in Taiwan to ensure that the new system genuinely protects the rights and welfare of Filipino workers while also addressing Taiwan’s legitimate labor needs.
“We are committed to supporting the development of clear, fair, and accessible procedures for both employers and workers ahead of the start of applications in January 2026,” it added.
Avecilla-Padiernos also expressed optimism for continued cooperation with Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor (MOL), emphasizing the importance of refining the operational details of the recruitment center.
She also highlighted the need to engage with sectors facing labor shortages, such as hospitality and commercial ports, to promote shared prosperity while safeguarding the dignity of migrant workers.
For its part, Taiwan’s Ministry of MOL has announced that the new center will open in the first quarter of 2026, bypassing the manpower brokerage system that has been in place until now.
Reports indicate that under this new system, Taiwanese employers will cover the costs for flight tickets, health checkups, and visas for migrant workers, rather than the workers themselves.
