Loss of Trust and Confidence Leads to Removal
The former administrator of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration was removed from his position due to a loss of trust and confidence. This decision came after a controversial land acquisition deal valued at P1.4 billion, which was conducted without the approval of the OWWA Board of Trustees.
The Department of Migrant Workers Secretary explained that the administrator did not resign voluntarily but was replaced because the deal bypassed proper authorization on multiple occasions. “Former administrator Ignacio did not resign from office. He was removed and replaced on the count of loss of trust and confidence due to an anomalous P1.4 billion land acquisition deal that did not go through the OWWA Board of Trustees on at least six counts,” the Secretary stated.
Details of the Unauthorized Land Deal
The law mandates that any such significant acquisition must be approved by the governing board. However, the administrator failed to inform the board on at least six separate matters related to the land purchase. The property was intended to provide accommodation for overseas Filipino workers, but the Secretary questioned its necessity.
“Dapat kinonsulta muna niya ang OWWA Board doon pa lang kasi ako mismo, pagsasabihan ko siya na di kailangan ‘yun because the private sector can secure mga accommodation requirements kung mayroong kailangang i-billet na OFWs,” he added, emphasizing that private entities could handle accommodation needs without requiring such a deal.
The project behind this land acquisition began planning in September 2023, with the actual sale transaction taking place in September 2024.
Consequences and Next Steps
When asked if the former administrator would face charges, the Secretary confirmed that a case will be filed. The President has already been informed about the situation, and appropriate legal steps are underway.
“Yes. I report it to the President and yes there will be corresponding case to be filed in the appropriate office or authority,” the Secretary confirmed.
Following the removal, the position was filled by a deputy secretary from the Department of Migrant Workers.
For more updates on overseas workers welfare, visit Filipinokami.com.