DOLE simplifies cash aid application process for returning OFWs

The application process of the Department of Labor and Employment’s one-time cash assistance program has been simplified for returning overseas Filipino workers.

DOLE said the application process of the Abot Kamay Ang Pagtulong program has been made easier by no longer requiring returning overseas Filipino workers to provide proof that they lost their jobs.

“We do not require the proof of loss of employment kasi doon nahihirapan ang ating mga OFWs,” said DOLE NCR Regional Director Sarah Mirasol.

She added that this time around, OFWs are only required to submit a copy of their passport, their boarding pass, and the stamp of their arrival in the country.

Mirasol added that they also have to present their passport, together with another government ID to claim their cash aid from remittance centers.

The Labor official said they were given until January 31 to process the application of at least 10,000 more OFWs.

The AKAP program provides $200 or ₱10,000 each to OFWs who lost their jobs due to the coronavirus pandemic.