The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) paid tribute to Ms. Aurora R. Regner, a 74-year-old domestic worker who dedicated nearly four decades of service to the cousin of a member of the Royal Family in Muscat, Oman.
On Thursday, June 5 2025, Ms. Regner visited the DMW office, where she was personally welcomed by Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac and other senior officials of the department.
In recognition of her remarkable service, Secretary Cacdac reassured Ms. Regner that the government, under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting returning migrant workers, especially senior citizens as part of its continuing effort to intensify its services to OFWs and their families.
“Ang dedikasyon ni Ms. Regner ay tunay na kahanga-hanga. Ang kagaya niya ay hindi lang dapat pahalagahan, kundi dapat paglingkuran din. Sa direktiba ng ating Pangulo, ang DMW ay nakaalalay sa mga katulad niyang OFW na buong-buhay na naglingkod para sa kanilang pamilya at sa bayan,” Secretary Cacdac said.
Ms. Regner is scheduled to receive comprehensive medical care at the OFW Hospital in Pampanga this coming Monday. She will undergo necessary medical tests, and transportation to and from the hospital will be provided free of charge.
Ms. Regner’s journey as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) began in 1985, spanning 39 years of hard work and dedication. She only returned home recently due to a heart condition marked by recurring shortness of breath. Despite her health struggles, she shared that she would have continued working if not for her condition.
Her story is a powerful testament to the sacrifices made by Filipino workers abroad. In 1996, she was diagnosed with tuberculosis and faced possible deportation. However, her employer fully supported her recovery, covering her hospitalization at the Royal Hospital, as well as boarding and medical expenses until she fully recovered.
Despite being encouraged to convert to Islam, Ms. Regner remained firm in her Christian faith. Her loyalty, values, and dedication earned her deep respect from her employers. One of them even helped five of her nieces secure jobs in Muscat, a testament to her lasting influence and goodwill.
She described her meeting with DMW Secretary Cacdac and Senior Officials as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” noting this milestone in her personal diary.
