What is the Meaning of OWWA – Overseas Workers Welfare Administration
OWWA, short for the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, is a government agency that was established in 1974 with the purpose of providing assistance and services to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Its main objective is to safeguard the rights and welfare of Filipino workers, whether they are in their home country or abroad.
OWWA offers a range of services designed to ensure the well-being and safety of OFWs wherever they may be. These services include pre-employment training programs, which equip Filipino workers with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen fields. By providing such training, OWWA aims to enhance the employability of OFWs and help them secure better job opportunities abroad.
In addition to pre-employment training, OWWA assists OFWs in various matters such as documentation, education, and transition. The agency helps OFWs with the necessary paperwork and processes involved in working overseas, ensuring that they have the appropriate documents and clearances required for employment. OWWA also provides educational support to OFWs and their dependents, offering scholarships and financial aid to help them pursue their studies.
Another crucial role of OWWA is the protection of OFWs from abuse and exploitation. The agency has a dedicated legal department that represents the interests of OFWs before other government agencies. This includes assisting OFWs in resolving issues related to employment contracts, labor disputes, and other legal matters. OWWA works to ensure that the rights of OFWs are upheld and that they are treated fairly and justly in their workplace.
Overall, OWWA plays a vital role in supporting Filipino workers abroad. Through its various programs and services, the agency strives to improve the lives and welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), contributing to their overall well-being and development. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a government agency in the Philippines that is responsible for safeguarding the rights and promoting the welfare of OFWs. It serves as the primary source of assistance and protection for Filipino workers who are employed overseas. The OWWA provides a range of services such as financial aid, livelihood training, social benefits, and legal assistance to OFWs and their families. By addressing the unique challenges faced by OFWs, OWWA aims to ensure their welfare and enhance their economic stability.
What is the meaning of OWWA?
OWWA is an acronym and it means Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
What is the purpose of setting up OWWA offices?
OWWA, or the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, has a primary goal of safeguarding the welfare of Filipinos employed overseas. It accomplishes this objective by offering various programs, representing the interests of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and advocating for their rights.
One of the key functions of OWWA is to serve as a form of insurance for its members, particularly during times of crisis. This means that OFWs who are registered with OWWA can avail themselves of financial assistance and support in case they encounter difficulties or emergencies while working abroad.
In addition to providing insurance-like benefits, OWWA strives to deliver a range of services and assistance to OFWs. This includes pre-employment training programs, which equip Filipinos with the necessary skills and knowledge needed for their overseas employment. OWWA also assists OFWs with documentation and visa support, ensuring that their paperwork and legal requirements are in order.
Furthermore, OWWA plays a vital role in protecting OFWs from abuse and exploitation. It actively promotes the rights and welfare of OFWs and takes measures to prevent their mistreatment. This can involve offering legal aid, facilitating the repatriation of distressed OFWs, and collaborating with international organizations and host countries to improve the working conditions and treatment of Filipinos abroad.
Overall, OWWA serves as a crucial organization dedicated to the well-being of Filipinos working overseas. It aims to empower OFWs by providing essential programs, representation, and advocacy, while also offering support and protection in times of need.
Who is the head of OWWA?
OWWA’s head office is located in Intramuros, Manila, where it was initially established. The current head administrator is Hans Leo J. Cacdac.
In addition to the head office, there are OWWA regional welfare branches spread throughout the country. These branches are equipped with Regional Welfare Office Directors and OWWA officers.
Moreover, OWWA has established several POLO-OWWA offices abroad. Each of these offices also has its own Regional Welfare Office Director and OWWA officers.
Functions and Responsibilities of OWWA
OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) offers several programs aimed at protecting Filipino workers abroad. These programs encompass various aspects, such as pre-employment training, assistance with documentation, education, and facilitating the transition to the foreign country’s culture. One of the primary objectives of OWWA is to safeguard Filipinos from abuse and exploitation. To achieve this, the agency has established an advocacy and legal department that assists in presenting cases before different government agencies.
Additionally, OWWA provides a range of support programs and services. These include insurance programs, livelihood initiatives, educational projects, cash assistance, and welfare support. Through these offerings, OWWA strives to ensure the well-being and protection of overseas Filipinos.
How does OWWA support OFWs?
Some of the ways OWWA supports OFWs include providing pre-employment training, documentation, and visa support; protection from abuse and exploitation; representation; and services.
OWWA Office Organizational Officers and Staff
Here is an example of the organizational chart for OWWA Welfare officers abroad, specifically based on the POLO-OWWA office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates:
Title: OWWA Welfare Officers Abroad
- Director of POLO-OWWA
- Assistant Director
- Welfare Officer (OWWA Memberships, Welfare Assistance, MWOFRC)
The Welfare Officer is a staff member who plays a crucial role in providing assistance and support to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Dubai, UAE. They are responsible for various tasks related to OWWA memberships, welfare assistance programs, and the operation of the MWOFRC (Migration Workers and Other Filipino Resource Center).
The Welfare Officer works under the supervision of the Assistant Director, who, in turn, reports to the Director of POLO-OWWA. This hierarchical structure ensures a streamlined approach to serving the welfare needs of Filipino workers abroad and maintaining effective coordination with OWWA headquarters.
Common Services Filipinos Avail in OWWA office
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers various services to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) worldwide. These services aim to raise awareness about the rights and support available to migrant workers, ensuring that they do not feel alone in their journey. Here are some common services that OFWs can avail at OWWA offices:
- DOLE-AKAP Assistance: This program provides a cash grant of PHP 10,000 to OFWs who have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. It serves as financial assistance during these challenging times.
- Education and Scholarship Programs: OWWA provides scholarships for dependents of OFWs and seafarers. These programs help support the education and development of their children, ensuring a brighter future for them.
- Livelihood Assistance: For OFWs who are returning to the Philippines and wish to establish their businesses, OWWA offers cash assistance projects. This support helps them transition back to their home country and promotes entrepreneurship among returning OFWs.
- Death and Disability Assistance: OWWA provides a cash grant to the families or beneficiaries of OFW members in the unfortunate event of their death or disability. This financial aid helps alleviate the burden faced by the affected families during these challenging circumstances.
- Repatriation Assistance: In times of crisis or turmoil in the host country, OWWA assists Filipinos in returning to the Philippines. This service ensures the safe repatriation of OFWs, providing them with the necessary support and resources to come back home.
These are just a few examples of the services offered by OWWA. The organization strives to address the needs and concerns of OFWs, supporting them throughout their overseas employment and beyond.
Summary
Each year, approximately one million Filipinos find employment in more than 200 countries worldwide. This highlights the significant influence of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in safeguarding their well-being. With offices established across the Philippines and even in other nations, OWWA has firmly established its role in protecting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) regardless of their location.
OWWA, which stands for Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, is an agency in the Philippines that is dedicated to the welfare and well-being of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). It was established under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to provide various support programs and services to OFWs and their families.
The primary purpose of OWWA is to ensure the protection and promotion of the rights and welfare of OFWs. It aims to address the unique needs and challenges faced by Filipino workers who are employed abroad. OWWA offers a range of services including pre-departure orientation seminars, social benefits, legal assistance, repatriation assistance, and reintegration programs.
One of the main responsibilities of OWWA is to provide assistance to OFWs in times of distress or emergency situations. This includes medical and hospitalization support, legal aid, and financial assistance for repatriation. OWWA also offers livelihood and skills training programs to help OFWs and their families establish sustainable sources of income upon their return to the Philippines.
OWWA is funded through a mandatory membership fee paid by OFWs, which is automatically deducted from their salary. This membership entitles them to access the benefits and services provided by OWWA. Additionally, OWWA collaborates with various government agencies, both local and international, to ensure the welfare and protection of OFWs.
In summary, OWWA plays a vital role in supporting the needs of Filipino workers employed abroad. Its purpose is to safeguard their rights, provide assistance during challenging times, and facilitate their successful reintegration into Philippine society
Remember to renew your OWWA membership and keep your account active to fully utilize the available projects and maximize the benefits you can receive as a member.
Contact Information
OWWA Central Office
Address: F.B. Harrison St, Pasay, Metro Manila
Telephone Number: 8891-7601 to 24
OWWA 24/7 Hotlines
Metro Manila / Cellphone: 1348
International: (+632) 1348
Website: https://owwa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: facebook.com/OWWAofficial
Twitter: @OWWAofficial
