The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) plans to file a motion for reconsideration with the Office of the Ombudsman regarding its dismissal of graft and plunder charges against former Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) administrator Arnell Ignacio and others over a P1.4 billion land deal.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac argued that the Ombudsman's resolution failed to address key details submitted by the department, including the undue haste in approving the transaction and the absence of scrutiny for the seller's benefit.

Cacdac highlighted that the Ombudsman's ruling did not mention the 51 condominium units worth P97 million that were part of the deal, which the government paid for despite their non-existence.

The resolution also did not address the alleged usurpation of official functions by Ignacio for approving the land deal under the pretense of OWWA Board authority.

Ignacio was removed from his post in May 2025 due to loss of trust and confidence, but he maintained the transaction was legitimate and presented to the OWWA Board.The DMW's appeal aims to rectify what they see as a flawed review process that overlooked critical aspects of the case.