NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA - The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC / Commission) took part in the successful signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and His Majesty the King in Right of the Province of Nova Scotia, Canada for the Establishment of Cooperation Alliance Initiative held on 09 June 2025.

The signing marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the Philippines and Nova Scotia, laying the foundation for deeper cooperation in labor mobility, protection and empowerment of Filipino migrant workers, recognition of professional credentials, and the promotion of ethical and transparent employment practices. 

The agreement was formally signed by the Honorable Hans Leo J. Cacdac, Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Honorable Brendan Maguire of the Minister of Advanced Education.

Representing the Philippines were officials from key government agencies including the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Social Security System (SSS), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and PRC Representative, Atty. Melisa Jane Comafay Yeachana, Director of the International Affairs Office (IAO).

During the official program, government officials reflected on the importance and long-term impact of the agreement. Administrator Patricia Yvonne M. Caunan of OWWA underscored the foundational intent of the MOU saying the agreement formalizes a shared commitment to building a cooperative alliance focused on ethical, fair and people-centered, rights-based and principled approach labor migration.

In support of this perspective, Atty. Jose Victor V. Chan-Gonzaga, DFA Assistant Secretary for American Affairs, highlighted how the MOU aligns with the broader foreign policy and labor mobility agenda of the Philippines, particularly in promoting ethical, sound and fair employment practices.  "The MOU forges our collective results to protect the dignity, safety, and welfare of migrant workers and their families", he added.

On one hand, Secretary Cacdac described the MOU as part of a strategic effort to enhance bilateral ties through a framework of integrated cooperation. "For today's MOU signing, with our partners in Nova Scotia, we build on our strong relations and to deepen our partnership; further, in terms of cooperating in particular areas that are integrated," he said. Secretary Cacdac also emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach in workforce development and the mutual recognition of skills and professional qualifications, looking into skills enhancements, development, recognition of credentials that would be very helpful. Highlighted also was the critical role of both TESDA and PRC in ensuring that Filipino workers arrive equipped, validated, and recognized for their professional competencies.

On the other hand, H.E. Maguire also delivered a heartfelt message of appreciation and assurance to both governments and to Filipino workers themselves. He acknowledged the essential contributions of Filipino workers in various sectors particularly in their healthcare system, construction and elderly caregiving. H.E. Maguire ensures the Filipino workers will not be taken advantage of and will be treated the exact same way as Canadian workers, having rights under the labor laws and pay structure.

With the convergence of efforts from both governments and the active involvement of agencies such as the PRC, the MOU sets in motion a collaborative platform that not only enhances labor mobility but also prioritizes shared values of fairness, safety, and mutual development. As both parties move toward implementation, the agreement is expected to translate into targeted initiatives that uplift migrant workers, foster recognition of skills and credentials, and deepen institutional linkages between the Philippines and Nova Scotia. This milestone underscores a joint commitment to building more inclusive, ethical, and sustainable pathways for global labor engagement.

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