OWWA eServices – Online Services

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides online services through the OWWA eServices portal, allowing Filipinos abroad to conveniently access various services. These services include the OWWA rebate portal, the application for OWWA e-Card, the completion of the OWWA OASIS form, and registration for the OWWA Mobile App. These online features have been developed by OWWA to assist Filipino workers worldwide.OWWA eServices – Online Services

In spite of the Philippines’ reputation as one of the leading countries in terms of internet usage, it is important to acknowledge that there are still Filipinos who have limited or no knowledge about basic internet services. When residing abroad, it can be challenging to navigate local and national services without knowing where to start.

Fortunately, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) consistently reaches out to our Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) through their e-services and online platforms, where their primary services are readily available.

Overview

OWWA’s e-services have been implemented with the aim of assisting Filipinos abroad in a structured manner with their various concerns. These online services provided by the agency cover a wide range of needs, including access to information databases, contact forms for inquiries and assistance, rebates, and membership perks. The primary objective of these services is to address the interests of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their dependents in the country, ensuring their promotion and protection.

By offering information databases, OWWA’s e-services enable OFW members to access valuable resources related to their employment, legal rights, and other relevant information. These databases provide a convenient platform for OFWs to gather essential details and stay informed about their rights and obligations.

The contact forms available through OWWA’s online services serve as a direct communication channel between OFWs and the agency. Through these forms, OFWs can submit their inquiries, seek assistance, or report any issues they may be facing. This streamlined process ensures a more efficient and systematic handling of OFW concerns.

Additionally, OWWA’s online services include rebates and membership perks for OFW members and their dependents. These benefits may vary and could encompass financial incentives, access to discounted services or products, and exclusive privileges. Such perks aim to recognize and appreciate the contributions and sacrifices of OFWs while providing them with additional support.

Overall, OWWA’s online services play a crucial role in catering to the needs of OFW members and their dependents. By promoting and protecting their interests through information dissemination, streamlined communication, and membership benefits, these e-services contribute to the well-being and empowerment of Filipinos working abroad.

OFW Assistance Information System (OASIS)

“The Online Foreign Worker (OFW) Assistance Information System, commonly referred to as OASIS, is an online database developed by the Department of Labor and Employment. Its primary objective is to facilitate efficient and organized service delivery for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). OASIS was established in response to the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the labor industry, leading to the displacement and termination of employment for many OFWs. By using OASIS, OFWs in crisis situations can submit their requests for repatriation and access additional support from the national government.

OASIS functions as a contact form for OFWs seeking assistance, and it is integrated with the databases of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO) worldwide. By completing the OASIS Application Form, you provide consent for these agencies to utilize and store your personal and occupational information in order to address your concerns and provide the necessary assistance related to the COVID-19 pandemic. This assistance may include repatriation, COVID-19 testing, quarantine arrangements, and transportation, among other services. It is important to note that all information collected and stored through OASIS will be handled in compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012.

To register with OASIS, OFWs can visit the official website at https://oasis.owwa.gov.ph/. Once registered, applicants will receive an acknowledgement email to confirm their registration, along with a link to their profile. This profile can be updated if necessary to ensure accurate and up-to-date information.”

OWWA OFW e-Card

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) had indeed introduced the OFW e-Card as a form of identification for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) worldwide. The purpose of the e-Card is to serve as a government-issued ID that OFWs can use when conducting transactions with remittance centers, POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office) offices, and the Philippine Consulate or Embassy in their country of employment. Possessing a valid OFW e-Card signifies that an OFW is an active and legally documented worker.

During that time, the OFW e-Card was being provided exclusively to “Balik-Manggagawa” OFWs, which refers to those who have been rehired by the same employer, either in the same location or a new one. Additionally, these individuals needed to be active members of OWWA for a minimum of ninety (90) days and hold a valid passport and Overseas Employment Certificate or Contract. This approach was part of the pilot phase of the program.

However, it is important to note that the information provided above might have changed since my last update in September 2021. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, I recommend visiting the official website of OWWA or contacting them directly.

OFW Rebate Program and Portal

The OFW Rebate Program was introduced in 2019 to comply with Section 54 of the OWWA Act (Republic Act 10801), aiming to provide assistance to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents. To facilitate the program, the OFW Rebate Portal was established as an online platform, exclusively accessible to active OWWA OFW members who are eligible for registration.

This rebate initiative allows both land-based and sea-based OWWA OFW members, who have maintained active membership for a minimum of ten (10) years and have not previously benefited from OWWA’s various programs such as scholarships, short-term training programs, welfare assistance programs, and membership benefits, to receive a partial refund based on a percentage of their contributions. It is important to note that the OWWA Rebate does not entail a full cashback or refund of contributions but rather a portion thereof.

OFWs or their dependents who are interested in availing of the rebate program can apply through the online portal located at https://rebate.owwa.gov.ph/.

OWWA Mobile App

The OWWA Mobile App serves as a comprehensive platform for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to access the latest updates on OWWA programs, services, and announcements. It provides a convenient and centralized location for OWWA OFW members to manage their profiles, check their membership status, and renew their membership.

To download the OWWA Mobile App, Android users can visit the Google Play Store using the following link: OWWA Mobile App on Google Play Store. For iOS users, the app is available on the App Store, and it can be downloaded through the following link: OWWA Mobile App on App Store.

By utilizing the OWWA Mobile App, OFWs can easily stay connected with OWWA’s offerings and keep themselves informed about important updates and services provided by the organization.

Summary

OWWA’s E-services offer a convenient solution for OFWs to easily reach out for assistance, particularly during critical times. It also enables them to stay connected with the OWWA and OFW communities, staying informed about the latest projects and services.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, more institutions are embracing online platforms to enhance their services and expand their reach. In line with addressing the concerns of OFWs, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is actively extending its support through e-services or online platforms, where its primary services are made available.

While technology may seem daunting to some, Filipinos are adept at embracing it and receiving genuine Filipino service with just a touch of their screen.