Stronger Together: Philippines, Korea Seal Seasonal Workers Pact

Author: DA Press Office | 16 November 2025

The Philippines and South Korea have sealed a stronger alliance through a new Joint Memorandum for the Implementation of Korea's Seasonal Workers Program (SWP) - a landmark move to protect, empower, and upskill Filipino farm workers abroad.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) led the signing with five key agencies - the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) - in a ceremony on November 4, 2025.

Representing the DA was Director Junibert E. De Sagun of the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service (AMAS), standing in for Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr.

The agreement sets a whole-of-government framework that unites national and local efforts in deploying Filipino seasonal workers to South Korea. It guarantees fair labor practices, legal protection, and proper welfare, while promoting ethical recruitment and agricultural cooperation between both countries.

Under the deal, the DA will roll out agricultural training, livelihood programs, and reintegration support for returning workers. The agency will also work closely with local governments and the DMW to ensure deployments match the country's agricultural priorities and global standards.

The memorandum also calls for an integrated support system to strengthen monitoring, welfare assistance, and coordination with Korean local governments - ensuring Filipino workers receive the care and protection they deserve.

Officials hailed the pact as a milestone in Philippine-Korea relations, boosting not only labor mobility but also agricultural innovation and food security.

"This partnership ensures that our seasonal workers are protected, empowered, and equipped to contribute to both nations' agricultural growth," the DA said in a statement.

The deal stands as a clear commitment: the Philippines is building global partnerships to uplift its farmers and secure better opportunities for Filipino workers abroad. ### (By OSEC Comms)