The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a Philippine government agency dedicated to supporting Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. It extends the government services to migrant workers abroad, allowing them to enjoy financial assistance, welfare programs, and reintegration support to ensure their well-being as OFWs as well as their dependents’. OWWA also provides cash assistance to OFWs, which helps mitigate the financial impact of crises, emergencies, or displacement, and offer a safety net while helping to facilitate their return and reintegration into the local economy.
While the DOLE Labor department handles Philippine workers and employees in the country, OWWA is the one that takes care of Filipino workers abroad. The support is quite significant because it addresses the specific needs of OFWs who often face challenges abroad, such as economic instability or personal crises, and ensures they have resources to support themselves and their families during difficult times. By offering financial aid and other types of assistance, OWWA helps maintain the welfare of OFWs, thereby strengthening the overall social and economic fabric of the Philippines.
What is OWWA?
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a government agency in the Philippines designed to protect and promote the welfare of OFWs and their families. OWWA provides a wide range of services, including financial aid, health care, insurance, educational scholarships, training programs, and reintegration support to ensure the well-being and development of OFWs. It was established to address the unique challenges faced by Filipinos working abroad, such as exploitation, abuse, financial instability, and the need for social protection.
The establishment of OWWA solves critical problems related to the vulnerabilities of OFWs by offering a safety net and support system that helps them cope with emergencies and reintegrate into society upon their return. By providing these essential services, OWWA aims to enhance the quality of life for OFWs and their dependents, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and support.
This comprehensive approach helps mitigate the risks and challenges associated with working overseas, contributing to the overall stability and prosperity of Filipino families and communities.
History
The OWWA was established in 1977 to provide a dedicated support system for OFWs and their beneficiaries. Over the decades, OWWA has expanded its services, from protecting and promoting the welfare and well-being of migrant workers to offering cash aid, health care, insurance, educational scholarships, and reintegration programs.
Throughout its history, OWWA has continuously adapted to address the evolving needs of OFWs, responding to crises and enhancing its welfare programs. In 2016, by virtue of R.A. 10801 or the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Act of 2016, it became a national government agency. Later, it became an attached agency to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) as per R.A. 11641, S. 2021.
Now in its 42nd year, OWWA has grown into a significant presence both locally and internationally, with offices in 31 overseas posts across 27 countries and in all 17 regions of the Philippines, ensuring the protection and welfare of millions of OFWs worldwide.
OWWA Logo
The OWWA logo features a triangular design divided into two halves, one blue and one red, symbolizing the Philippine flag’s colors. At the center, a sun with rays emanating upwards represents hope and progress, while the lower half is filled with diagonal lines, symbolizing the waves of the sea, reflecting the overseas nature of OFWs. The acronym “OWWA” is prominently displayed below the triangle, reinforcing the agency’s identity and mission to support Filipino workers abroad.
OWWA Mission
“The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a national government agency vested with the special function of developing and
implementing welfare programs and services that respond to the needs of its member-OFWs and their families. It is endowed with powers to administer a trust fund to be called the OWWA Fund.”
OWWA Vision
“By 2030, OWWA is the global leader in migrant workers welfare.”
Core Values
The core values of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) guide its mission to protect and support Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. These values reflect OWWA’s commitment to service, integrity, and excellence.
- Professionalism – Maintaining its good image to its publics, including the development of its human resource.
- Accountability – Managing its Fund transparently and judiciously. Guarantee to utilize properly all its resources;
- Responsiveness with Commitment – Ensuring Client-Centric Services which is oriented towards the total satisfaction of its external and internal clients.
Functions
The OWWA is tasked with protecting the interests and promoting the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in all phases of overseas employment. Under R.A. 10801, OWWA’s functions include a range of services aimed at supporting OFWs and their families.
- Protect and promote the welfare of member-OFWs in recognition of their contribution to national development.
- Facilitate the implementation of labor laws and provide legal assistance to member-OFWs.
- Offer social and welfare programs, including education, training, financial management, and reintegration services.
- Respond promptly to global emergencies or crises affecting OFWs and their families.
- Ensure efficient collection and sustainable management of the OWWA Fund.
- Conduct studies and research to enhance the well-being of member-OFWs and their families.
- Develop, support, and finance welfare projects for member-OFWs and their families.
- Ensure the implementation of relevant laws and international conventions.
Organizational Chart
The OWWA organizational structure chart is designed to efficiently manage and deliver services to OFWs. At the top is the Administrator, managing the Internal Audit, Public Affairs and Advocacy, and the Legal Affairs Divisions.
The Administrator is also supported by the Deputy Administrators for Operations and for General Administrative and Support Services. These deputy leaders oversee various offices and divisions responsible for specific functions. It includes:
- Policy and Program Development Office: Responsible for formulating policies and developing programs that align with the agency’s mission and goals.
- Planning and Program Development Division: Focuses on planning and creating programs that address the needs of OFWs and their families.
- Overseas Welfare Operations Office: Manages the welfare programs and services for OFWs while they are abroad.
- Repatriation, Welfare, and Legal Assistance: Provides services related to the repatriation of distressed OFWs and offers legal assistance and welfare support.
- Regional Welfare Operations Office: Located in various regions to provide direct assistance and services to OFWs and their families at the grassroots level.
- National Reintegration Center for OFWs: Facilitates the reintegration of returning OFWs into the Philippine society and economy through various programs and services.
- Policy Planning and Information Systems Office: Handles the development and implementation of policies, plans, and information systems to support OWWA’s operations.
- Finance and Fund Management Office: Oversees the financial operations and management of OWWA’s funds to ensure sustainability and accountability.
- General Administrative Office: Manages the internal administrative functions, including human resources, procurement, and general services, to support the agency’s operations.
- Legal and Welfare Assistance Divisions: Provide legal aid and welfare services to protect the rights and promote the well-being of OFWs.
These specialized offices and divisions work together to implement OWWA’s mandate effectively, ensuring that the needs of OFWs are met and the members are protected through coordinated efforts across different levels and areas of operation, both abroad and upon their return to the Philippines.
Benefits
The establishment of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in the Philippines offers several general benefits:
- Protection and Welfare
OWWA provides essential protection and welfare services to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), ensuring their rights and well-being are safeguarded while they work abroad. - Crisis Response
The agency offers prompt assistance during global emergencies or crises, helping OFWs and their families navigate difficult situations. - Reintegration Support
OWWA facilitates the smooth reintegration of returning OFWs into Philippine society through various programs and services, contributing to their economic stability and social adjustment. - Financial Assistance
The agency provides financial aid and support programs, helping OFWs and their families manage financial challenges and emergencies. - Education and Training
OWWA offers educational scholarships, training programs, and skills development opportunities, enhancing the employability and career prospects of OFWs and their dependents. - Economic Contribution
By supporting the welfare and development of OFWs, OWWA helps maintain their economic contribution to national development, benefiting the broader Philippine economy. - Legal Assistance
The agency provides legal aid to OFWs, helping them address legal issues and protect their rights in foreign countries. - Research and Development
OWWA conducts studies and research to continuously improve its services and address the evolving needs of OFWs and their families.
Coverage
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides comprehensive support and services to member Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. Its coverage extends globally, ensuring that all member OFWs, active or otherwise, receive assistance regardless of their location. The primary beneficiaries of OWWA’s programs include both the OFWs and their dependents, addressing their various needs and concerns.
- OFWs and their families: Direct beneficiaries of OWWA’s welfare programs, financial assistance, and reintegration services.
- Distressed OFWs: Receive immediate aid and repatriation assistance during crises or emergencies.
- Returning OFWs: Benefit from reintegration programs aimed at helping them transition back into Philippine society and economy.
- OFW dependents: Access educational scholarships, training programs, and other support services.
- Prospective OFWs: Gain from pre-departure orientation seminars and training to prepare them for overseas employment.
- Legal Assistance Beneficiaries: OFWs who require legal support to address issues abroad.
Membership
OWWA operates as a membership institution. For a membership contribution of US$25, OFWs are entitled to a variety of benefits and services. Membership can be obtained either upon processing a contract at the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), formerly Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), or through voluntary registration at job sites overseas. The membership is valid for the duration of the employment contract, up to a maximum of two years, after which it needs to be renewed.
Programs and Services
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers a comprehensive range of programs and services designed to support the welfare and development of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. These initiatives include financial assistance, educational support, and various reintegration and repatriation services to address the diverse needs of OFWs throughout their overseas employment and upon their return to the Philippines. By providing these resources, OWWA aims to enhance the well-being and livelihood of OFWs, ensuring their safety, development, and successful reintegration into the community.
Social Benefits
- Disability & Dismemberment: Provides financial support for OFWs who suffer disabilities or loss of limbs due to work-related incidents.
- Supplementary Medical Assistance (MEDplus): Offers additional medical aid to cover expenses not included in the primary health insurance for OFWs.
- Death & Burial: Provides financial assistance for the funeral and burial expenses of deceased OFWs.
- Welfare Assistance Program (WAP): Offers emergency aid to OFWs in distress or facing unforeseen financial difficulties.
Education and Training
- Scholarships For Dependents: Provides financial assistance of up to Php 60,000 per year for the dependents of OFWs pursuing higher education.
- Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP): Offers scholarships to top students and current college enrollees, with up to 1,000 slots available annually.
- OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP): Grants Php 20,000 per school year to OFW dependents with a maximum monthly salary threshold of $600.
- Education and Livelihood Assistance Program for the Dependents of Deceased OFW Members (ELAP): Supports the education and livelihood needs of families of deceased or incarcerated OFWs.
- Short-Term Training Programs For OFWs & Dependents: Provides financial support for vocational training programs to enhance skills for better employment opportunities.
- Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP): Funds short-term technical or vocational training courses up to Php 14,500 for OFWs and their dependents.
- Information Technology (IT) Training Program: Upgrades IT skills of OFWs and their families through basic computer literacy and advanced applications.
- Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP): Enhances the skills and qualifications of seafarers to meet industry standards and improve employment prospects.
Repatriation
- Repatriation Assistance Program: Provides support and assistance for OFWs returning to the Philippines due to crises or job loss.
Reintegration
- Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program: Offers financial and livelihood support to OFWs returning to the Philippines for business or employment.
- Tulong PUSO: Provides emergency financial aid to OFWs in distress due to unforeseen circumstances.
- OFW Enterprise Development and Loan Program: Supports OFWs and their families in starting or expanding small businesses through loans and development assistance.
e-Services
- OFW Assistance Information System (OASIS): An online platform for accessing information and services related to OFW assistance.
- OFW e-CARD Application: Allows OFWs to apply for and manage their e-CARD, a digital identification for accessing benefits.
- OWWA Rebate Portal: Provides a portal for OFWs to check and claim rebates on their contributions.
- OFW e-CARD Tracker: Enables tracking the status of OFW e-CARD applications.
- OWWA Mobile App: Offers a mobile application for OFWs to access services, updates, and information on-the-go.
Special Projects
- DOLE-AKAP: Provides financial aid to OFWs affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergencies.
- Tabang OFW: Offers immediate relief and support to OFWs in distress or facing emergency situations.
- OWWA Rebate: Facilitates the processing and distribution of contribution rebates for OFWs.
- Project EASE: Assists OFWs in accessing various services and benefits easily through a streamlined process.
- Tuloy-Aral Project (TAP): Supports the education of OFW dependents with financial assistance and educational resources.
Other External Services
Other external services also offered by OWWA via their offices include the following:
Central Office
- Facilitation of Single Entry Approach (SEnA) for OFWs: Streamlines the resolution of OFW issues through a unified approach.
- Recognition for the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar Providers: Acknowledges organizations that provide essential pre-departure training for OFWs.
Regional Welfare Offices
- Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS): Provides mandatory orientation to prepare OFWs for working abroad.
- Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP): Delivers in-depth training covering various aspects of working overseas for OFWs.
Video: Introducing OWWA and What it Does
Discover how the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) supports Filipino workers abroad in this informative video by Yodi Insigne on Hoy Tara Travel. Featuring insights from former OWWA Deputy Administrator Mocha Uson, the video highlights the various programs and services designed to enhance the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Watch to learn more about how OWWA’s initiatives impact OFWs and their families, ensuring their safety and development both during and after their overseas employment.
Summary
OWWA safeguards the welfare of OFWs and their families. Through its comprehensive range of services and programs, including essential cash assistance, OWWA ensures that the needs of Filipino migrant workers are addressed, from repatriation and legal assistance to education and livelihood support.
By understanding and utilizing these programs, OFWs and their families can navigate the challenges of overseas employment and secure a better future. If you are a migrant worker and have yet to enjoy the benefits of your OWWA membership, it’s high time to start checking what kind of support you need and the available OWWA programs that can help you and your family
Contact Information
For more detailed information and assistance, OFWs are encouraged to visit the official OWWA website, contact their nearest OWWA office, or reach out to their customer service hotline, OWWA Cares.
OWWA Cares
OWWA Cares Hotline: 1348 (for Metro Manila), (02) 1348 for outside Metro Manila, 0632-1348 for those overseas / international calls
Other ways to reach OWWA includes reaching out to the OWWA Main Office via the following contact information:
Overseas Workers Welfare Association (OWWA)
Main HQ Address: F.B. Harrison St, Pasay, Metro Manila
Tel. No.: 8891-7601 to 24
OWWA hotline number: 1348, (02) 1348 (Regional), (+632) 1348 (International)
OWWA Email Address: owwacares@owwa.gov.ph, commandcenter@dole.gov.ph
OWWA Facebook page: https://web.facebook.com/OWWAofficial
OWWA Official Website: https://owwa.gov.ph/