Photo credit: DMW

In a bold and straightforward statement, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac finally broke his silence on the controversial Php1.4 billion land acquisition deal by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). And no—this wasn’t just a resignation situation. Former OWWA Administrator Arnell Ignacio was removed from office, citing a “loss of trust and confidence” after a series of questionable moves surrounding the deal.

So what exactly went wrong? According to Secretary Cacdac, a lot—and it wasn’t minor.

For starters, the land deal in question was pushed through without the go-signal from the OWWA Board of Trustees. That’s already a major red flag. But it doesn’t stop there. Here’s what the DMW Secretary laid out:

1. A pricey “Halfway House” idea. Ignacio reportedly planned to build a large facility for returning OFWs—like during the COVID-19 mass repatriation days—but didn’t consult the Board, which could have pointed out the obvious: it wasn’t practical, and hotels could do the job better.

2. Fund juggling. Around Php2.6 billion originally meant for emergency repatriation was apparently converted into capital outlay without proper authority. That’s money meant for urgent OFW needs—redirected with no proper approval.

3. Big-ticket transactions done solo. The Php1.4B Deed of Sale and even a donation agreement were signed without Board approval. That’s a clear violation of OWWA’s own Charter.

4. Tax reimbursements? Despite being tax-exempt? An additional addendum was signed to reimburse taxes to the seller—even though OWWA is exempt from those taxes. And yes, still no Board approval.

5. Lease contracts and outside collectors. The property came with existing lease agreements that weren’t disclosed. Worse, someone not from OWWA was reportedly collecting rent from tenants—again, without Board oversight.

6. Demolition drama. A building with 52 condo units—part of the land’s valuation—was torn down without the Board’s go-ahead. Those units were actually factored into the land’s price when Landbank assessed it.

And that’s just the official list. Secretary Cacdac also pointed out some shady financial movements. One attorney-in-fact (representing the seller) somehow got Php36 million in refunded taxes, and another Php1.4 million in collected rent—after the land was already government property.

The DMW chief made it clear: This wasn’t just about bad judgment. It involved clear procedural violations and major accountability gaps. Now, administrative and criminal charges are on the table for those involved.