The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Milan is the labor and welfare office of the Philippine Government in Northern Italy. It is responsible for protecting the rights and welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), particularly in matters related to employment, labor standards, and worker assistance.
The MWO replaced the former Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) following the creation of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). While POLO was the previous name used for Philippine labor offices abroad, MWO is now the official and current designation under Philippine law.
MWO Milan primarily serves:
– Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Northern Italy
– Filipino workers with employment-related concerns
– Employers and institutions coordinating with the Philippine
– Government on labor matters involving Filipino workers
MWO Milan covers Northern Italy, including Lombardy and nearby regions, in accordance with the jurisdiction of the Philippine Consulate General in Milan.
– Workers who obtained a Nulla Osta and need their employment contract verified prior to deployment
– MWO Milan does not process recruitment or job placement.
A Philippine Recruitment Agency (PRA) is required in many overseas employment arrangements to ensure that Filipino workers are properly recruited, protected, and deployed in accordance with Philippine laws and regulations.
PRAs are licensed and regulated by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and are responsible for, among others:
– Verifying the legitimacy of foreign employers and job offers
– Ensuring that employment contracts comply with Philippine labor standards
– Assisting workers with pre-departure requirements and documentation
– Providing accountability and support mechanisms in case of disputes or violations
The requirement for a PRA helps prevent illegal recruitment, contract substitution, and worker exploitation, and ensures that there is a legally accountable entity both before and after deployment.
The use of a Philippine Recruitment Agency is therefore intended as a protective mechanism, not a barrier, to safeguard the rights and welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers.
Under Philippine regulations, a Philippine Recruitment Agency (PRA) may charge the foreign employer a placement or service fee equivalent to a maximum of one (1) month of the worker’s basic salary, unless otherwise provided by specific rules for certain categories of workers.
As a general rule:
– Recruitment and placement fees should not be charged to the worker
– Any fees collected must comply strictly with existing laws and regulations
– Unauthorized or excessive charges may constitute illegal recruitment or prohibited practices
Workers who are asked to pay fees that should be borne by the employer are encouraged to seek clarification or report the matter to our office.
Direct hiring may be allowed only in specific cases, subject to approval and compliance with DMW regulations. These typically include:
– Balik-manggagawa (returning OFWs) who are:
– Rehired by the same employer, or
– Continuing employment with the same employer under similar terms
– Professionals or highly skilled workers, such as:
– Doctors, nurses, engineers, researchers, or specialists
– Workers employed by international organizations or reputable institutions
Even when direct hire is allowed, the worker must still comply with all Philippine overseas employment requirements, including contract verification and appropriate travel documentation.
Not all job offers qualify for direct hire. Each case is evaluated individually based on existing rules and safeguards to ensure worker protection.
Balik-manggagawa (returning workers) in possession of permesso di soggiorno (residency permit) with the types lavoro subordinato or attesa occupazione.
No. MWO Milan does not process visas, residence permits, or immigration applications. These matters fall under the jurisdiction of Italian authorities.
MWO Milan does not act as a private lawyer.
However, it may:
– Provide guidance on legal options
– Coordinate with accredited or private legal counsel
– Assist in referrals and documentation, depending on the case
In emergency situations involving serious risk to life, safety, or liberty, immediate coordination with local emergency services is advised. MWO Milan may be contacted as soon as practicable for appropriate assistance and coordinatio

