In a move to further enhance services for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and in accordance with Department Circular No. 02, Series of 2023, the Department of Migrant Workers has announced that the issuance of all forms of Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) for rehires or Balik-Manggagawa (BM) shall be free of charge effective from 29th July 2023. This development comes as a welcome relief for OFWs and is expected to streamline the processes involved in securing OECs. In the past, the processing and issuance of OEC will cost you 100Php.
Based from the Department of Workers’ Memorandom # 110 with the subject line: Implementation of Department Circular No. 02 Series of 2023, on the renaming of Overseas Employment Certificate to OFW Pass and lifting of fees on OFW Pass to rehires or Balik-Manggagawa OFWs dated July 25, 2023., OFWs returning to their jobs abroad no longer need to pay for the issuance of manual or digital OECs. The waiver of fees aims to ease the financial burden on returning workers and encourage a smoother transition for those rejoining their overseas employment.
Under this new system, the issuance of an Official Receipt for the OEC will no longer be required. The removal of this requirement simplifies the process, making it more efficient and hassle-free for both the OFWs and the government agencies involved.
However, despite the change in the fee structure, the accountability process for manual OECs remains unchanged. Accountable Officers must continue to prepare monthly reports of OECs issued and submit them to the Finance Service through the Accounting Division on the last day of the following month. This practice ensures transparency and helps in keeping track of the OEC issuance activities.
For organizations and agencies holding unused Official Receipt Forms for OEC-BM collection as of the close of office hours on 28th July 2023, it is crucial to account for these forms properly. Such forms must be immediately returned to the General Service Division of the Administrative Service.
In conclusion, the new memorandum on the free issuance of Overseas Employment Certificates for rehires is a positive development for OFWs and the agencies involved. It alleviates financial burdens, streamlines processes, and reinforces the government’s dedication to serving and safeguarding the interests of its workers overseas. The Filipino workforce can look forward to a more convenient and cost-effective experience when securing their OECs under this updated system.
