President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Patricia Yvonne Caunan as the new Administrator of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), replacing Arnell Ignacio. Caunan, who previously served as Undersecretary for Policy and International Cooperation at the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), took her oath of office before DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac on May 16, 2025.
In an emotional address, Caunan expressed gratitude for the trust bestowed upon her, recognizing the leadership of Secretary Cacdac and President Marcos. “Taos-puso po akong nagpapasalamat sa tiwala at kumpiyansang ibinigay sa akin ng ating Pangulo… Napakapalad ko po—dahil ang dalawang naging boss ko sa pamahalaan ay tunay na may integridad at malasakit sa mga OFW,” she stated.
Known for her extensive experience in international labor policy, Caunan has been a pivotal figure in securing 15 bilateral labor agreements with countries including Canada, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, enhancing protections for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) globally.
DMW Secretary Cacdac praised Caunan as a trailblazer whose expertise in legal and international matters is matched only by her empathy and commitment. “She has been a trailblazer… The frontier she has opened for bilateral and international cooperation has been amazing. She has the legal know-how, the heart, the common sense, and the common touch, which is the most important,” he said.
As OWWA’s new chief, Caunan emphasized the need for a united approach in serving OFWs and their families. “Alam kong napakarami pa nating kailangang gawin. Naniniwala ako na kailangan natin ng isang OWWA, isang DMW, at isang gobyerno para sa OFW,” she declared, signaling her dedication to responsive and compassionate leadership.