As an overseas Filipino worker (OFW), it brings a sense of relief to know that assistance is available when needed, especially in times of employment-related issues and concerns while working abroad. One such source of support is the Overseas Workers Welfare Association (OWWA), which provides various programs to aid OFWs.How to Avail OWWA OFW EDLP – OFW Enterprise Development and Loan Program

Among these programs is the OFW Enterprise Development and Loan Program (OFW-EDLP), formerly known as the OFW-Reintegration Program (ORP). It is an enterprise development intervention and loan facility offered by OWWA in partnership with the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP). The primary objective of this program is to assist OFWs and their families in establishing and expanding their businesses.

The OFW-EDLP aims to provide financial support and guidance to qualified OFWs who aspire to start their own business ventures. It offers loan programs specifically designed to address the unique needs and challenges faced by OFWs in starting and developing their enterprises. By collaborating with LBP and DBP, OWWA ensures that OFWs receive comprehensive assistance throughout the process, including access to financial resources and expert advice.

Through the OFW-EDLP, OFWs can obtain loans to finance various business activities, such as capital investment, working capital, and purchase of equipment or machinery. The program also provides business training and development services to enhance the entrepreneurial skills of OFWs and their families. By equipping them with the necessary tools and resources, the program aims to foster sustainable business growth and success.

It is worth noting that specific eligibility criteria and requirements apply to qualify for the OFW-EDLP. OFWs who are interested in availing the program are encouraged to contact the OWWA or visit their official website for detailed information on the application process, loan terms, and other relevant guidelines.

Overview

The OWWA’s OFW-EDLP (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s OFW Enterprise Development and Loan Program) provides loans to OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers), whether they are nearing retirement or still working abroad. This program is conducted in partnership with the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP). Compared to the OWWA Reintegration Program, the OFW-EDLP requires more effort but allows borrowers to access larger loan amounts.

To be eligible for the OFW-EDLP, OFWs must meet certain criteria and submit the required documents. Additionally, they are required to attend an orientation seminar called Enterprise Development Training (EDT), which is organized by OWWA. After completing the EDT, OFWs will receive a certificate from OWWA, which is one of the necessary documents for availing the program.

Please note that my knowledge is based on information available up until September 2021, and there may have been updates or changes to the program since then. It is advisable to consult official sources or contact the OWWA for the most up-to-date information regarding the OFW-EDLP program and its requirements.

Benefits

For sole proprietors, the minimum loan amount is P100,000, and the maximum loan amount is P2,000,000.
The minimum loan amount for Partnerships, Corporations, and Cooperatives: is P100,000 Maximum loan amount: is P5,000,000

Qualifications

The statement you provided appears to be related to OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) who are certified members of OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration), both active and non-active. It outlines a requirement for these OFWs to have completed EEDT (Enhanced Entrepreneurial Development Training). Additionally, it mentions that OFWs who are still abroad, may be represented by certain individuals depending on their marital status and family circumstances. Here is a breakdown of the representation guidelines:

For OFWs who are married: They may be represented by their legal spouse.
For OFWs who are single, widowed, widower, or separated: They may be represented by parents who are not older than 60 years old.
For OFWs who are widowed, widower, or separated and have children: They may be represented by their children who are at least 18 years old.

It’s important to note that my knowledge cutoff is in September 2021, and there may have been updates or changes to these guidelines since then. It’s advisable to consult the official OWWA website or contact their office directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding OWWA membership requirements and representation guidelines.

Requirements

Accomplished Application form
2 Valid IDs with signature
Business Plan/Proposal (indication/showing that the proponent has an equity equivalent to at least 20% of the total project cost)
Statement of Assets & Liabilities
Sketch (Place of residence)
Barangay Certification of Residency
Proof of billing address
Certificate of Entrepreneurial Development Training from OWWA

For applicants who already have existing business here are the requirements:

Biodata
DTI Certificate of Registration
Mayor’s Permit
Income Tax Return (if applicable)
Financial Statements (if applicable)
Latest Interim Financial Statement (if applicable)

Types of Businesses

Here are the eligible businesses for the loan:

Agricultural and non-agricultural production/manufacturing
Contract tie-ups with the top 1000 corporations
Service/trading business
Construction/rental business
Franchising
Transport service
Or any viable project, new or existing

How to Process OWWA EDLP Loan Program for OFWs

In case you have made your decision to apply for the OFW EDLP, please follow the steps below on how you can sign up for this loan program.

STEP 1: Verification of OWWA Registration

For OFWs who are still working outside the Philippines

“To obtain information about the OFW Reintegration Program, it is advisable to approach the Welfare Officer at the Embassy that oversees your country of employment. You can refer to the provided list of POLO-OWWA offices located overseas.

Once you contact the Welfare Officer, they will verify your registration as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) with the OWWA.

After the verification process, the Embassy’s Welfare Officer will then refer you to an OWWA office in the Philippines.

Upon your return to the Philippines, it is necessary for you to visit the OWWA office to acquire the certification.

You will need to present this certification to Landbank.”

For OFWs who have already arrived in the Philippines:

“Visit the nearest OWWA office in your area to verify your eligibility for the program. If you meet the criteria, they will provide you with a membership certification. You will need to present this certification to Landbank for further evaluation.”

STEP 2: Enterprise Development Training

The first step in the process is for an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) to be deemed eligible for the Enterprise Development Training (EDT). The eligibility criteria may vary depending on the specific guidelines set by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Landbank.
Once the OFW is identified as eligible, they will be notified or advised to attend the Enterprise Development Training (EDT) session. This training is provided by OWWA, DTI, and Landbank, and it aims to equip OFWs with knowledge and skills in entrepreneurship and business development.
The OFW will need to attend the EDT session in person. The training may be conducted at a specific location, such as a training center or designated venue. Details regarding the training schedule, location, and any required documentation will be provided to the eligible OFW.
As part of the requirements for the EDT, the OFW must ensure they obtain a certificate of attendance. This certificate serves as proof that the OFW has completed the training. The certificate is usually issued by the organizing agencies, namely OWWA, DTI, and Landbank.
After obtaining the certificate of attendance, the OFW must submit it to Landbank. This step is crucial as it may be a requirement for accessing certain benefits or programs related to enterprise development or financial assistance provided by Landbank. The submission process may vary, and the OFW should follow the instructions provided by Landbank on how to submit the certificate.
Once the OFW has submitted the certificate of attendance to Landbank, it will be reviewed and verified by the bank. If everything is in order, the OFW may be eligible for specific benefits or programs offered by Landbank. These benefits could include access to financial services, loans, or other forms of support aimed at assisting the OFW in starting or developing their own business.

Note: It’s important to keep in mind that the specific processes and requirements may vary depending on the guidelines set by OWWA, DTI, and Landbank. Therefore, it is recommended for the OFW carefully review the instructions and guidelines provided by the respective agencies to ensure compliance and a smooth process.

STEP 3: Preparation of Business Plan and other requirements

This encompasses every document mentioned in the aforementioned requirements list. It is crucial to gather and organize all the specified requirements to ensure a comprehensive presentation and increase the likelihood of obtaining approval.”

STEP 4: Processing Requirements Submission, Review, and Inspection

Prepare your business plan: Ensure that your business plan is well-structured and comprehensive. It should include details about your business concept, target market, products or services, marketing strategy, financial projections, and any other relevant information about your business.
Gather the necessary requirements: Along with your business plan, you will need to compile the required documents. These may vary depending on your specific situation, but commonly requested documents include:
- Completed loan application form
- Valid identification documents (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
- Proof of business registration (e.g., business permits, licenses)
- Financial statements (e.g., income statement, balance sheet)
- Bank statements
- Collateral documents (if applicable)
Submit your documents for review: Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, submit them to Landbank for review. Ensure that you have included all the required materials to avoid any delays in the evaluation process.
Business inspection: If your business already exists, Landbank may conduct an inspection to assess its operations, financial health, and compliance with regulations. This step helps the bank evaluate the feasibility of providing the loan.
Loan evaluation and packaging: Landbank will evaluate your loan application, considering factors such as your creditworthiness, business viability, and the proposed loan amount. They will package all the information and documents related to your application to facilitate the approval process.
Loan approval: After completing the evaluation and packaging, Landbank will make a decision regarding your loan application. If approved, they will provide you with the terms and conditions of the loan, including the loan amount, interest rate, repayment period, and any other relevant details.
Timeframe: Landbank aims to complete the loan evaluation, packaging, and approval process within 45 working days from the receipt of complete loan requirements. However, it’s important to note that this timeframe may vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of your application and the volume of applications being processed.

It’s recommended to directly contact Landbank or visit their website for the most up-to-date and accurate information on their loan application process, as procedures and requirements may change over time.

STEP 5: Loan Approval

If the application is approved, Landbank will release the funds to the OFW.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please check out this FAQs about the EDLP loan application program:

1. Is the EDLP a financial grant from OWWA?

No, this is a loan program for those qualified OFWs to start their own business or do some expansion activities for their existing business.

2. How much is the interest rate then?

The interest rate of EDLP is 7.5% per annum (per year) for the whole loan term.

3. How much will I get from this loan program?

The loan amount ranges from P100,000 to P5,000,000

4. Can I request a specific amount for my business?

“The loan amount will be determined based on the specific requirements of your project or business. To secure an adequate sum, it is important to develop a comprehensive business plan that aligns with your objectives.”

Summary

The Enhanced Livelihood Development Program (EDLP) was established by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), a government agency responsible for developing and implementing programs to protect the rights of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). OWWA aims to ensure that OFWs who choose to stay in the Philippines after working abroad have the opportunity for a better life.

By becoming a member of OWWA, you become eligible to receive various forms of financial assistance and other benefits provided by the EDLP. These benefits are available before, during, and after your overseas employment. Whether you are an active member or not, there is still an opportunity for you to avail the EDLP. It’s never too late to start planning for your future after working as an OFW.

By taking advantage of the EDLP, you can explore the possibility of starting your own business in the Philippines. This means you can generate income while living in your home country and enjoy the benefits of a better life. The program aims to support OFWs in their transition from overseas employment to sustainable livelihood opportunities in the Philippines.

In summary, the EDLP offered by OWWA provides financial assistance and benefits to OFWs who choose to stay in the Philippines after working abroad. It is designed to help them establish their own businesses and improve their lives while remaining in their home country.
Certainly, undertaking this program will necessitate substantial effort and meticulous preparation for the required documentation. Additionally, you will need to invest time in training to meet the program’s requirements. However, despite the challenges, the benefits will far outweigh the initial difficulties. It is crucial to remember that the advantages of participating in this program extend not only to you but also to your own family.