President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne Caunan as the new Administrator of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), succeeding Mr. Arnell Ignacio.
Administrator Caunan took her oath of office before DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, today, May 16, 2025.
“Taos-puso po akong nagpapasalamat sa tiwala at kumpiyansang ibinigay sa akin ng ating Pangulo, at siyempre, sa inyong patuloy na paggabay. Napakapalad ko po—dahil ang dalawang naging boss ko sa pamahalaan ay tunay na may integridad at malasakit sa mga OFW. Ako mismo ay naging saksi sa inyong pamumuno sa POEA at OWWA—ang puso ninyo ay nasa bawat manggagawang Pilipino sa ibang bansa,” Administrator Caunan said.
With her deep experience in international labor policy and her unwavering dedication to the welfare of overseas Filipino workers, Administrator Caunan brings both expertise and heart to her new role. As DMW Undersecretary for Policy and International Cooperation since 2022, she played a key role in forging 15 bilateral labor agreements with countries such as Canada, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Finland, Denmark, Singapore, Croatia, Slovenia, and Kuwait — each one strengthening protection for OFWs around the world.
“She has been a trailblazer, that’s even an understatement. The frontier she has opened for bilateral and international cooperation has been amazing. She has the legal know how, the heart, the common sense, and the common touch, which is the most important,” Secretary Cacdac said.
A seasoned lawyer with a strong track record in labor, civil, administrative, and criminal law, she has long championed the rights of migrant workers, offering legal guidance and support to those in need. Her dynamism, legal acumen, and strategic leadership have made her a trusted voice for OFWs in both government and international circles.
But more than her qualifications, it is Administrator Caunan’s empathy, energy, and vision that stand out. She is known for her hands-on approach, her commitment to inclusive service, and her sincere care for OFWs and their families.
Administrator Caunan is set to lead OWWA into a new era of responsive, compassionate, and empowering service for every overseas Filipino and their loved ones.
“Alam kong napakarami pa nating kailangang gawin. Naniniwala ako na kailangan natin ng isang OWWA, isang DMW, at isang gobyerno para sa OFW,” Administrator Caunan ended.
