POEA as instructed by DOLE Secretary Arturo Brion ordered the immediate suspension of Memorandum Circular No. 4, Series of 2007 that has spawned active and various protests and criticisms from migrants and OFWs worldwide.

Documents of direct-hired OFWs will be processed via the method used before January 15, 2008 that does not require repatriation and performance bonds from employers.