There are numerous government agencies that OFWs should be aware of. OFWs and their dependents can take advantage of various perks and benefits provided by government agencies. Knowing the government agencies is also important so that OFWs know which government to approach if they require assistance. Continue reading to find out more about the seven main government agencies for OFWs.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
It is the executive branch of the Philippine government tasked with contributing to the enhancement of national security and the protection of territorial integrity and national sovereignty, participating in the national endeavor of sustaining development and enhancing the Philippines’ competitive edge, protecting the rights and promoting the welfare of Filipinos oversea and mobilizing them as partners in national development, and projecting a positive image of the Philippines.
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/dfaphl/
Website Link: dfa.gov.ph
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW)
DMW is the Philippine government’s executive branch tasked with protecting the rights and promoting the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
Its mandate is to facilitate the overseas employment and reintegration of Filipino workers while being mindful of the National Economic and Development Authority’s national development programs. It is also responsible for promoting OFW empowerment and protection through ongoing training and knowledge development.
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/dmw.gov.ph/
Website Link: dmw.gov.ph
Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
The DOLE provides a wide range of on-site programs and services to promote and protect the rights and welfare of OFWs through its POLOs. Workers training, case management, custodial services, repatriation assistance, and other welfare assistance are among the services provided.
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/laborandemployment/
Website Link: https://www.dole.gov.ph/
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
DSWD is the primary government agency responsible for developing, implementing, and coordinating social protection and poverty-reduction solutions for and with the poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged Filipinos, particularly OFWs.
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/dswdserves/
Website Link: https://www.dswd.gov.ph/
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
OWWA is a membership organization and an attached agency of the DOLE. It safeguards and promotes the well-being of OFWs and their dependents. OFWs can gain numerous benefits if they acquire and process their OWWA membership. Some of the benefits are as follows:
- Social Benefits
- Disability and Dismemberment Benefits
- Death and Burial Benefits
- Education and Training Benefits
- Pre-Departure Education Program
- Welfare Programs
- On-Site Assistance and Services for OFWs at their Job Sites
- Reintegration Program
- Reintegration Preparedness (On-Site)
- Repatriation Assistance Benefits
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/OWWAofficial/
Website Link: https://owwa.gov.ph/
Pag-IBIG
Pag-IBIG stands for Pagtutulungan sa Kinabukasan: Ikaw, Bangko, Industriya, and Gobyerno. The Pag-IBIG Fund is still harnessing these four sectors of society to work together to provide Fund members with adequate housing through an effective savings scheme. Pag-IBIG offers OFWs leaving the Philippines a more convenient registration system as well as an accessible and affordable remittance service.
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/PagIBIGFundOfficialPage/
Website Link: https://www.pagibigfund.gov.ph/index.html
Social Security System (SSS)
SSS is in charge of providing social security benefits to private-sector workers. Maternity, sickness, disability, retirement, funeral, and death benefits are available to SSS members, particularly OFWs. SSS also allows qualified members to borrow money for salary, housing, business, and education.
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/SSSPh/
Website Link: https://www.sss.gov.ph/
