The Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program (BPBH) is a livelihood initiative under the wIt aims to help repatriated and displaced Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) by providing financial support to jumpstart small businesses or expand existing ones. The program offers cash assistance of up to Php 20,000, entrepreneurship training, and other resources to help beneficiaries achieve self-sustainability through self-employment.
This program is exclusively available to Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) members, including active and inactive contributors. By understanding how to apply for the BPBH program, OFWs can take advantage of this OWWA livelihood program to rebuild their lives and achieve long-term financial stability.
Program Overview
The BPBH is a livelihood initiative under the OWWA ORP designed to support distressed or displaced OFWs by offering financial assistance, which can be used as startup funds or additional capital for small business ventures. Introduced as part of OWWA’s commitment to empowering its members, BPBH also provides entrepreneurship training and access to marketing resources to help beneficiaries succeed in their chosen livelihood projects.
The BPBH program primarily targets repatriated OFWs who have encountered employment challenges abroad, offering immediate relief and long-term reintegration support. This initiative also aims to promote self-sustainability through skills enhancement and guidance in starting a business. With its multifaceted support package, the program reflects the agency’s dedication to creating opportunities for OFWs to rebuild their livelihoods and contribute to their communities.
BPBH Features
Here are some of the key features of the BPBH program:
- Flexibility in Livelihood Assistance: The BPBH program allows OFWs to use the cash assistance as start-up capital for new businesses or to support ongoing livelihood activities. Common business ventures include sari-sari stores, farming, food stalls, or small-scale manufacturing.
- Mandatory Business Training: The EDT ensures that applicants are equipped with the skills needed to manage and grow their businesses. Topics include financial management, marketing, and sustainability planning.
- Personalized Business Planning: Applicants must create a business plan tailored to their proposed livelihood project. This plan serves as a guide to maximize the funds and ensure long-term success.
- Support Beyond Financial Assistance: In addition to cash aid, OWWA provides marketing linkages and job referrals to enhance the livelihood prospects of BPBH beneficiaries.
Benefits
Here are the key benefits under the BPBH program:
- Cash Assistance: The financial aid ranges from Php 5,000 to Php 20,000 depending on the member’s OWWA status:
- Non-members: Php 5,000
- Inactive members (with at least one contribution): Php 10,000
- Active members: Php 20,000
- Entrepreneurship Development Training (EDT): A mandatory training session to equip OFWs with basic business skills.
- Other Services: These include job referrals, marketing support, and guidance in managing small businesses.
By leveraging these benefits, repatriated OFWs can re-establish their livelihoods and support their families.
Target Beneficiaries
The BPBH provides assistance and support for eligible individuals so they can rebuild their lives through financial aid, business training, and other reintegration services.
Here is the list of target beneficiaries for the BPBH program:
- Repatriated Distressed OFWs: OFWs who were forced to return to the Philippines due to crises such as conflicts, calamities, or employment termination abroad.
- OWWA Active Members: OFWs who maintain active membership with OWWA and are eligible for the full financial assistance of up to Php 20,000.
- Inactive OWWA Members: OFWs who have previously contributed to OWWA but have inactive membership can still receive up to Php 10,000 in assistance.
- Non-Member OFWs: Even non-members who qualify as repatriated or displaced are entitled to a financial package of Php 5,000.
- OFWs Affected by Employer-Related Issues: Individuals whose contracts were prematurely terminated due to employer bankruptcy, abuse, or other justifiable causes supported by official documentation.
- OFWs Returning Due to Natural Disasters or Emergencies: Workers who returned home because of calamities, pandemics, or similar emergencies affecting their safety abroad.
- Residents in Need of Financial Reintegration Support: OFWs who plan to start or expand a livelihood project in their local communities and meet the residency proof requirements.
- OFWs with Proof of Job Displacement: Applicants who can present termination letters, embassy referrals, or legal certifications indicating their displacement from overseas work.
Eligibility
The BPBH program is available to repatriated distressed OFWs who meet the following criteria:
- Must be an active or inactive OWWA member with at least one contribution.
- Must be able to provide documents like a passport, travel records, or airline tickets.
- Must be able to provide documents proving job termination or distress, such as termination letters, referral certificates, or repatriation requests.
- A barangay certificate or clearance showing your current address.
Note: Applicants must also attend mandatory entrepreneurship training as part of the program requirements.
Documentary Requirements
Applicants must prepare the following documents to complete their application for the BPBH program:
- OWWA Membership Records (obtainable from OWWA regional offices).
- Accomplished Application Form with a personal statement (sariling salaysay) confirming that the financial assistance will be used for livelihood purposes.
- Proof of Repatriation (e.g., airline tickets, boarding passes, or travel documents).
- Proof of Displacement (termination letter, POLO certification, or other official documents).
- Proof of Residency (barangay certificate).
- Certificate of Attendance from the mandatory Entrepreneurship Development Training (EDT).
All documents must be submitted to the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) where you intend to apply.
Step-by-Step Process for BPBH Application
Follow these steps to apply for the OWWA BPBH program:
Step 1. Schedule an Appointment
- Visit the OWWA appointment scheduler at http://appointment.owwa.gov.ph to secure your slot for the BPBH application process.
Step 2. Submit Application Requirements
- Upon your appointment date, go to the designated OWWA RWO. Present and submit all required documents, including the accomplished application form and proof of OWWA membership.
Step 3. Attend the Entrepreneurship Development Training (EDT)
- After your documents are verified, you will be scheduled to attend the EDT session at your OWWA RWO. This training session will teach you basic entrepreneurship skills and provide guidelines for creating a business plan.
Step 4. Submit Additional Requirements
- After completing the EDT, submitw the certificate of attendance along with your business plan and other required documents. The reintegration unit will review your submission and schedule a site inspection of your proposed business.
Step 5. Prepare for Business Site Inspection
- OWWA representatives will visit your business site (or proposed location) to verify your livelihood project. The inspection ensures that the financial assistance will be used appropriately.
Step 6. Wait for Approval
- Once the site inspection is completed and your documents are finalized, OWWA will evaluate your application. Successful applicants will be notified regarding the release of cash assistance.
Step 7. Claim Financial Assistance
- Claim your livelihood assistance from the OWWA office or through designated channels such as check issuance or money transfer services.
Where to Get the Application Form
To apply for the Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program (BPBH) under the OWWA OFW Reintegration Program (ORP), you can secure the application form from the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO). Forms are available at the Reintegration Unit or Focal Person desk during office hours, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Alternatively, you may schedule an appointment online through the OWWA website to streamline your application for this OWWA livelihood program.
Tips for a Successful BPBH Application
For a hassle-free BPBH application, here are some important reminders to keep in mind:
- Prepare Your Documents in Advance: Ensure all requirements are complete and accurate before your scheduled appointment to avoid delays.
- Create a Feasible Business Plan: Design a livelihood project that aligns with your skills, interests, and resources.
- Attend the EDT Actively: Participate fully in the training to gain valuable insights for running your business.
- Follow-Up on Your Application: Stay in contact with your OWWA RWO for updates regarding your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding BPBH:
1. Who can avail of the BPBH program?
Repatriated and displaced OFWs who are OWWA members, either active or inactive, can apply for the program.
2. How much financial assistance is provided?
The cash assistance ranges from Php 5,000 to Php 20,000, depending on your OWWA membership status.
3. Is Entrepreneurship Development Training mandatory?
Yes, all applicants must attend the EDT as part of the application process.
4. Can I use the assistance for other purposes?
No, the financial aid must be used exclusively for livelihood projects.
Video: OWWA Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program
For a visual walkthrough on the BPBH Program for OFWs, you may check out this video from RICROD-PH:
Summary
The OWWA Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program (BPBH) offers OFWs a valuable opportunity to rebuild their lives and achieve self-sufficiency through livelihood projects. With financial assistance, mandatory training, and business support, the program equips OFWs with the tools to succeed. For more information, visit your nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office or check the official OWWA website.