The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is launching an investigation into other officials possibly involved in the controversial P1.4-billion land acquisition deal under former Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) administrator Arnell Ignacio.
The land purchase, which was intended for a halfway house or dormitory-style accommodation for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), allegedly bypassed the OWWA Board of Trustees in at least “six counts,” prompting concerns over its legality and transparency.
The transaction was among the key reasons behind Ignacio’s removal from his post due to a reported loss of trust and confidence.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac confirmed they are now reviewing the potential involvement of other OWWA officials in the questionable deal.
“That is one matter currently being assessed, the possibility that others are involved. Because what was replaced on the Board is a committee within the OWWA. The Board was not consulted, but an entire committee was formed,” Cacdac said in a mix of English and Filipino in an interview with GMA News.
“What we are assessing is who is involved here, in the decision to not consult the Board and proceed with this transaction with aspects that we need to further analyze,” he added.
In light of these developments, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Migrant Workers Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne Caunan as the new OWWA administrator. She officially took her oath of office on Friday.