The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides various programs to assist Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. One of these initiatives is the Welfare Assistance Program (WAP), which offers financial support to OWWA members who do not qualify under the agency’s standard benefits and services. This program addresses specific needs, such as calamity aid, bereavement assistance, medical assistance, and relief for displaced workers.
Understanding how to access the WAP ensures that OFWs and their families can benefit from the financial support they need during unexpected events or hardships. This guide will explain the program, its benefits, eligibility, requirements, and the application process to make it easier for qualified individuals to take advantage of this OWWA social benefit.
Program Overview
The Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) is a financial aid initiative for active or inactive OWWA members and their dependents who cannot access other OWWA social benefits. It provides relief in situations that fall outside the regular benefits and services offered by the agency.
This program is designed to assist OFWs and their families in specific circumstances, including:
- Calamity Assistance: Support for families affected by natural disasters like typhoons, floods, or earthquakes.
- Bereavement Assistance: Aid for the family of a deceased OFW.
- Disability Assistance: Financial help for OFWs who have suffered injuries or disabilities due to accidents or crimes.
- Medical Assistance: Coverage for medical conditions not included under the MEDplus program.
- Relief Assistance: Support for OFWs who were displaced or laid off due to political, economic, or health crises.
This program ensures that no OFW member or family member is left unsupported during emergencies or unforeseen hardships.
Benefits
The WAP provides various financial benefits depending on the type of assistance:
- Calamity Assistance
- Active members: ₱1,000 for natural disasters and ₱3,000 for man-made disasters.
- Inactive members: ₱500 for natural disasters and ₱1,500 for man-made disasters.
- Bereavement Assistance
- Families of deceased OFWs can claim up to ₱20,000.
- Medical Assistance
- Financial aid for illnesses, injuries, or disabilities not covered by the MEDplus program.
- Relief Assistance
- Cash aid for OFWs displaced due to economic, political, or health-related crises.
These benefits ensure that members and their families receive much-needed support during challenging times.
Target Beneficiaries
The OWWA WAP is designed to help specific beneficiaries who experience hardships not covered under other OWWA social benefits. These beneficiaries include OFWs and their qualified dependents facing challenges such as natural disasters, bereavement, medical emergencies, or job displacement.
- Active OWWA Members affected by natural or man-made disasters, such as typhoons, earthquakes, or fires.
- Inactive OWWA Members and their families who require financial aid in qualifying circumstances.
- Dependents of OFWs, such as spouses, children, or parents, who qualify for bereavement, medical, or other forms of assistance.
- Displaced OFWs due to economic crises, political conflicts, or health emergencies.
- OFWs with medical conditions not covered under MEDplus or those who sustained injuries from accidents or crimes.
- OFWs with disabilities caused by work-related incidents or unforeseen events.
Eligibility
The following individuals are eligible to apply for WAP:
- Active or Inactive OWWA Members: Whether you are actively paying membership dues or not, you can apply if you meet the specific program criteria.
- Qualified Dependents of OFWs: Immediate family members, such as spouses or children, may also avail of the benefits on behalf of the OFW.
To qualify for WAP, applicants must meet the conditions outlined under each type of assistance. For example, calamity assistance is only available to OFWs residing in areas declared under a State of Calamity by the local government or the Office of the President.
Documentary Requirements
The required documents vary depending on the type of assistance being claimed. Below is a checklist for each category:
Calamity Assistance
- At least two (2) valid IDs of the OFW or claimant
- Authorization letter and ID of the OFW (if the claimant is not the OFW)
- Barangay Certificate confirming residency in a disaster-affected area
- Certification from the Bureau of Fire Protection (for fire incidents)
Bereavement Assistance
- At least two (2) valid IDs of the claimant
- Proof of relationship with the deceased OFW (e.g., marriage contract, birth certificate)
- Death certificate
- Joint affidavit from two disinterested persons who witnessed the burial rites
Disability Assistance
- At least two (2) valid IDs of the claimant
- Medical certificate or examination results
- Accident or police report
- Special Power of Attorney (SPA) if the claimant is not the OFW
Medical Assistance
- At least two (2) valid IDs of the OFW or claimant
- Authorization letter and ID of the OFW (if the claimant is not the OFW)
- Original medical certificate or abstract signed by the attending physician with PTR number
Relief Assistance
- At least two (2) valid IDs of the OFW or claimant
- Authorization letter and ID of the OFW (if the claimant is not the OFW)
- Proof of displacement (e.g., termination of contract, canceled working visa)
- Certification from OWWA-POLO at the job site
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for WAP
Here is how you can apply for the OWWA Welfare Assistance Program:
Step 1. Visit the OWWA Regional Welfare Office
Go to the OWWA office nearest your permanent residence or the designated office covering your area.
Step 2. Obtain a Priority Number
Take a queue number and wait to be called.
Step 3. Membership Verification
Present your OWWA ID or membership details at the verification desk. Staff will confirm your membership status and provide an application form and checklist of requirements.
Step 4. Submit Required Documents
Complete the application form and submit all necessary documents for validation.
Step 5. Approval and Claiming of Assistance
If your application is approved, you will receive a claim stub. You can collect your financial assistance through cash or check payout.
Where to Get the Application Form
You can get the application form for the OWWA WAP at your nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO). Present your OWWA ID or membership details at the Membership Verification Desk, where staff will verify your membership status. Once confirmed, they will provide you with the application form and a checklist of the required documents.
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
To help you apply for the OWWA WAP without any problems, you must also remember to do the following:
- Check Your Membership Status: Ensure your OWWA membership is active or has not lapsed too long before applying.
- Complete Requirements: Gather all documents before visiting the OWWA office to avoid delays.
- Follow Up: After submitting your application, follow up with OWWA for updates on the status of your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding the OWWA WAP:
1. Can an inactive member apply for WAP?
Yes, inactive members can apply for specific WAP benefits, such as calamity or bereavement assistance.
2. How long does it take to process an application?
Processing times vary but typically take several weeks. Ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays.
3. Can dependents apply on behalf of the OFW?
Yes, authorized dependents may apply with a valid authorization letter and the required documents.
Video: Applying for the OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP)
For a visual walkthrough on how to avail the OWWA WAP, you may check out this video from Bryllez Channel:
Summary
The OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) provides financial relief to OFWs and their families in times of need. From calamity aid to medical support, the program addresses situations not covered under standard OWWA social benefits. Both active and inactive members can access this assistance, provided they meet eligibility criteria and submit the required documents. By understanding the WAP process, OFWs and their families can maximize the benefits available to them through OWWA.