DFA Hosts Migration Dialogue with the Officials of Tuvalu and Vanuatu as Part of IOM-Facilitated Study Visit

The IOM-facilitated study visit provided an opportunity for DFA to conduct migration dialogues with the two Pacific Islands Forum members (Photo credits: DFA-OPD)

MANILA 27 February 2025 – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), through the Office of the Undersecretary for Migration Affairs (OUMA), hosted the delegation from Tuvalu and  Vanuatu on 19 February 2025 at the DFA Double Dragon Tower, Pasay City. The meeting was part of the study visit facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to help officials from Vanuatu and Tuvalu to learn about the Philippines' exemplary practices in the field of migration governance and policy.

Among the topics discussed were the crucial role of the Department in protecting the rights and promoting the welfare of overseas Filipinos through Assistance-to-Nationals services, its commitment to the Global Compact on Migration, and the vital role of the Filipino diaspora in development.

Delegates from Tuvalu and Vanuatu actively participated in the discussions and expressed interest in the Philippines' legal protection mechanisms for overseas Filipinos abroad, including those relating to the safety of fishermen and seafarers. DFA OUMA also discussed the concept of “One Country Team,” which was appreciated by the delegates.

The delegation, which was composed of officials from the governments of Tuvalu and Vanuatu, were also joined by representatives from IOM Philippines, Australia, and Vanuatu throughout the week-long study visit. END

Undersecretary Eduardo José de Vega (center) presiding the meeting (Photo credits: DFA-OPD)

DFA and IOM officials with the delegation from Tuvalu (Photo credits: DFA-OPD)

DFA and IOM officials with the delegation from Vanuatu (Photo credits: DFA-OPD)