The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a government agency in the Philippines dedicated to supporting Filipino migrant workers and their families by providing social and economic benefits. Established in 1977, the primary objective of OWWA is to address the specific needs and concerns of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

Since its establishment, OWWA has played a crucial role in assisting millions of OFWs and their families through various services and programs. These services encompass a broad spectrum, including but not limited to: OWWA Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Agency for OFWs

Health Insurance: OWWA offers health coverage and insurance to OFWs, ensuring they have access to medical services and assistance when needed. This provision helps alleviate the financial burden of healthcare expenses for OFWs and their dependents.
Education Scholarships: OWWA extends educational opportunities to the dependents of OFWs by providing scholarships. This initiative aims to support the education and future prospects of OFW families, contributing to their long-term welfare and development.
Financial Assistance: OWWA provides financial aid and support to OFWs during challenging times. This assistance may include emergency loans, livelihood assistance, and repatriation funds, among others. It serves as a safety net for OFWs facing unforeseen circumstances, ensuring they receive the necessary support.
Legal Aid: OWWA offers legal services and assistance to OFWs who encounter legal issues abroad. This includes guidance on labor and employment rights, counseling, and access to legal representation. By providing legal aid, OWWA helps protect the rights and well-being of OFWs working overseas.
Overseas Welfare Centers: OWWA operates welfare centers in various countries where significant numbers of OFWs reside. These centers serve as a valuable resource for OFWs in need of assistance, providing counseling, temporary shelter, and repatriation support in case of emergencies or challenging situations.

Overall, OWWA plays a vital role in supporting the welfare and well-being of Filipino migrant workers and their families. Through its comprehensive range of services, the agency aims to address the unique challenges faced by OFWs and provide them with the necessary support to ensure their social and economic stability.

Since its establishment, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has played a pivotal role in offering assistance to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) during times of crisis. However, OWWA’s services extend beyond crisis response, encompassing a diverse range of social and economic benefits for OFWs and their families. Moreover, OWWA operates welfare centers abroad, providing a support system for OFWs who may require emergency assistance.

OWWA’s primary objective is to safeguard the welfare and well-being of OFWs. In times of crisis, such as natural disasters, political unrest, or global health emergencies, OWWA takes immediate action to aid affected OFWs. This assistance may include repatriation efforts, evacuation, medical support, and financial aid to help them overcome the challenges they face.

Beyond crisis response, OWWA offers a comprehensive array of services designed to promote the socio-economic development of OFWs and their families. These services encompass livelihood programs, education and training opportunities, and access to various forms of financial assistance. For instance, OWWA provides loans and grants to eligible OFWs who wish to start or expand their own businesses in the Philippines, thereby facilitating their reintegration into the local economy upon their return.

Furthermore, OWWA recognizes the need for on-the-ground support for OFWs in foreign countries. To address this, the agency operates overseas welfare centers. These centers serve as vital points of contact for OFWs who require assistance, advice, or intervention in cases of emergencies, labor disputes, legal concerns, or any other issues they may encounter while working abroad. The centers facilitate access to appropriate resources, such as legal aid, counseling, medical services, and temporary shelter if necessary.

In summary, OWWA’s commitment extends beyond crisis management. The agency’s services encompass a wide range of social and economic benefits aimed at promoting the well-being and empowerment of OFWs and their families. By operating overseas welfare centers, OWWA ensures that OFWs have a reliable support system in place to seek assistance during emergencies or challenging situations while working abroad.

Overview

In a 2015 United Nations report released by Statista.com, the Philippines ranked eighth among the top 10 countries with the highest number of migrants sent, with over 5.3 million Filipinos. This number increased to 6.1 million in a similar report released in 2020. Despite the continuous rise in the number of Filipino migrants, the Philippine government has yet to fulfill its promises to them through the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

The OWWA is an agency attached to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and serves as its service arm. It is responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating welfare programs and services that cater to the needs of aspiring, outgoing, and returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. These services are provided at various stages of the OFWs’ migration journey, including pre-departure, on-site, and upon arrival. The funding for these services comes from contributions made by OWWA members, which are then consolidated into a trust fund.

Established in 1977, OWWA has expanded its regional presence across the Philippines and maintains 31 offices in over 27 countries worldwide. The agency is governed by a Board of Trustees and has a two-fold mandate: delivering welfare services and benefits to OFWs and ensuring the capital buildup and sustainability of its funds.

Benefits of OWWA Members

Pre-departure Benefits: a. Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS): OFWs receive guidance and information on overseas employment, including their rights and responsibilities, as well as knowledge about the host country’s culture, laws, and customs. b. Pre-departure Education Program (PDOS): OFWs attend a seminar that provides them with practical information about living and working overseas, addressing topics such as financial management, language and cultural adaptation, and skills upgrading.
On-site Benefits: a. Social Services and Welfare Programs: OFWs are entitled to various services such as medical and dental assistance, hospitalization benefits, and legal assistance. b. Education and Training Programs: OWWA offers skills training programs, entrepreneurship development training, and scholarship programs for OFWs and their dependents. c. Repatriation Assistance: In case of emergencies or repatriation needs, OWWA provides assistance, including financial support for transportation and other related expenses.

Upon Return to Country Benefits: a. Reintegration Programs: OWWA assists OFWs in reintegrating into the local workforce by providing livelihood programs, skills training, and business counseling services. b. Loan Programs: OWWA offers livelihood loans and various financial assistance programs to help OFWs start their own businesses or invest in income-generating ventures. c. Social Benefits: OFWs may also be eligible for retirement and disability benefits, as well as death and burial assistance.

Pre-Departure Programs

Orientation and training seminars
Assistance in employment application

On-site Assistance

Assistance in employee/employer concerns
Repatriation

Upon return to Country

Reintegration programs
Livelihood training and assistance
Other benefits

Programs and Services

1. Reintegration Programs: OWWA may offer reintegration programs that assist returning OFWs in reintegrating into the local community after their overseas employment. These programs can provide livelihood training, entrepreneurship seminars, and financial assistance to support their reintegration process.
2. Skills Training and Education: OWWA may extend skills training and educational opportunities to non-members or inactive OFWs. These programs aim to enhance their skills and knowledge, making them more employable and improving their chances of finding suitable employment.
3. Livelihood Assistance: Non-members or inactive OFWs may have access to livelihood assistance programs provided by OWWA. These initiatives can include financial support, access to capital for starting a business, or assistance in acquiring necessary resources or equipment.

Welfare and Assistance Programs: OWWA may extend certain welfare and assistance programs to non-members or inactive OFWs in cases of emergency or distress. These programs could include medical and burial assistance, repatriation support, and counseling services.

Social Benefit Programs

Disability and Dismemberment Benefit: OFWs are eligible for a one-time payment of PHP 50,000 for partial or temporary disability, and PHP 100,000 for permanent disability.
Death Benefit: In the unfortunate event of an OFW’s natural death, their family is entitled to a death benefit of PHP 100,000. In case of accidental death, the benefit amount is increased to PHP 200,000.
Burial Benefit: In addition to the death benefit, the legal heir(s) or dependent(s) of the OFW receive a one-time burial benefit of PHP 20,000.
Supplemental Medical Assistance (MedPlus): This program provides financial assistance to PhilHealth member OFWs diagnosed with chronic and dreaded illnesses. The assistance amount is equivalent to PhilHealth’s case rate system for the specific illness, up to a maximum of PHP 50,000 per member.
Welfare Assistance Programs: These programs cater to both active and inactive OWWA OFW members who may not qualify for other social benefits. The programs include:

Bereavement Assistance: Provides support to families of deceased OWWA OFW members.
Calamity Assistance: Offers assistance to OWWA OFW members and their families affected by natural or man-made disasters.
Medical Assistance: Assists OWWA OFW members with injuries caused by accidents or crimes, or those suffering from illnesses not covered by the MedPlus Program.
Relief Assistance: Aids OWWA OFW members who have been displaced, terminated, or laid off due to economic, political, or public health crises beyond their control.

Scholarships, Education and Training Programs

The Pre-departure Education Programs aim to provide orientation and essential knowledge to first-time and outgoing Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) before they start their employment abroad. These programs cover various aspects, including employment abroad, language training, cultural orientation, financial matters, and legal affairs.

One important component of these programs is the Pre-departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS). This seminar is required for all first-time OFWs and provides country-specific information and guidance relevant to their destination. It helps them understand the laws, customs, and working conditions in the country they will be employed in.

For first-time domestic workers, there is the Comprehensive Pre-departure Education Program (CPDEP). This program is a mandatory four-to-six-day orientation seminar that equips domestic workers with the necessary knowledge and skills for their employment abroad.

Filipino seafarers have access to specialized training programs as well. The Seafarers Upgrading Program offers job-related training and upgrade assistance, providing financial support of up to PhP 7,500 per seafaring member.

The Mariner’s Dugtong Aral (Bridging) Program is a scholarship grant specifically for graduates of BS Mechanical Engineering or BS Electrical Engineering who wish to pursue a career in marine engineering. This program allows them to enroll in a BS Marine Engineering program.

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides scholarships for qualified dependents of OFW members. The Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) offers a scholarship grant of up to PhP 60,000 per school year to qualified dependents pursuing a 4-year or 5-year baccalaureate program.

The OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP) provides educational assistance of up to PhP 20,000 per school year for qualified dependents of OWWA OFW members who earn less than USD 600 or PhP 32,000 monthly.

Lastly, there is the Educational Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP), which grants scholarships to the eldest child dependent of an active OWWA OFW member who has passed away or is facing the death penalty due to conviction.

These programs and scholarships aim to support OFWs and their dependents by providing them with education and training opportunities, financial assistance, and essential knowledge to enhance their skills and prospects both during their employment abroad and upon their return to the Philippines.

Repatriation Program

The repatriation program aims to provide support and facilitate the return of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have encountered difficulties overseas or to repatriate the remains of deceased OFWs during emergencies arising from political unrest or natural disasters. The program, managed by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), offers the following entitlements to OFWs:

Airport assistance upon arrival in the country: OFWs receive aid and guidance upon their arrival at the airport, ensuring a smooth transition back to their home country.
Temporary shelter at the OWWA Halfway Home: OFWs are provided with temporary accommodation at the OWWA Halfway Home, which serves as a safe haven while they make arrangements for their return to their respective hometowns.
Psychosocial counseling and stress debriefing: OFWs may avail themselves of psychosocial counseling and stress debriefing services, which aim to address the emotional and psychological well-being of returning OFWs who may have experienced distressing situations abroad.
Transport service to their respective hometowns: The program also offers transportation services to facilitate the return of OFWs to their hometowns or places of residence within the country, ensuring their safe and timely arrival.

Values formation: Training that focuses on instilling positive values and ethical conduct to help OFWs adapt to the local work environment upon their return.
Financial literacy: Education and training on managing personal finances, budgeting, savings, and investment to enhance the OFWs’ financial stability.
Entrepreneurial development: Training programs that equip OFWs with the necessary skills and knowledge to start and manage their own businesses.
Techno-skills and capacity building: Training in specific technical skills and enhancing existing capabilities to improve employability and entrepreneurial opportunities.

The in-country reintegration process involves the following support activities:

Job referrals: Assisting returning OFWs in finding suitable employment opportunities that align with their skills and experience.
Business counseling: Providing guidance and advice to OFWs who are interested in starting or expanding their own businesses.
Community organization: Encouraging the formation of support networks and organizations among returning OFWs to foster collaboration and mutual assistance.
Financial literacy: Ongoing training and education on financial management to ensure the proper utilization of resources and sustainable business practices.
Networking with support groups and institutions: Facilitating connections with relevant organizations, institutions, and government agencies that can provide additional support and resources.
Social preparation: Regional Welfare Offices of OWWA initiate social preparation activities to assist returning OFWs in readjusting to their local communities.

Additionally, OWWA offers the following specific programs to further support reintegration efforts:

Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay! Program: This program provides returning OWWA OFW members with a livelihood support and assistance package worth up to PhP 20,000 as initial or additional capital for their chosen livelihood ventures.
OFW – Enterprise Development and Loan Program (OFW – EDLP): In collaboration with Landbank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), this program offers enterprise development interventions and loan facilities to returning OFWs. The loan carries a low annual interest rate of 7.5% for working capital or fixed asset acquisition.
Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-unlad ng Samahang OFWs (Tulong PUSO): This program provides one-time, project-based assistance worth up to PhP 1,000,000 to support the undertakings and services of OFW-caused organizations with more than 50 members.

These reintegration programs of OWWA are designed to empower returning OFWs, equip them with the necessary skills and resources, and assist them in their successful transition back to the Philippine labor force and society.

Becoming an OWWA member

For OFWs residing in the Philippines: You can physically apply at the OWWA Regional Welfare Offices.
For OFWs residing abroad: You can apply through the Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLOs).

Alternatively, you can also apply for OWWA membership online using the OWWA Mobile App, which is available for download on Google Play Store or the App Store for iOS devices.

OWWA membership is compulsory for all Filipino workers employed overseas. Even if you initially traveled abroad on a tourist visa and later found a job, it is highly recommended to apply for OWWA membership to help safeguard your employment. Once approved, the OWWA membership is valid for a period of two (2) years.”

Requirements

OWWA OFW Information Sheet: This form contains essential information about the OFW, such as personal details, contact information, and employment details.
Copy of the passport’s data page: This is a photocopy of the page in the passport that contains the OFW’s personal information, photo, and passport number.
Copy of Employment pass or work permit: This refers to the document issued by the host country’s government that allows the OFW to legally work in that country.
Copy of Employment Contract: This is a copy of the contract between the OFW and their employer, outlining the terms and conditions of employment, including salary, benefits, and job responsibilities.

Membership fee: OFWs are required to pay a membership fee of USD 25 or the equivalent amount in foreign currency. The fee may vary depending on the country of destination.

Procedure

You may apply for OWWA membership either via Regional Welfare Offices (RWOs) or POLOs, or online

Applying to an OWWA Office

Prepare your documentary requirements: Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready, which may include your valid passport, work visa or contract, employment contract, and other supporting documents as required by OWWA.
Visit the official OWWA website: Go to https://appointment.owwa.gov.ph/ to book an appointment. It is essential to schedule an appointment before visiting an OWWA office for any transaction. This helps streamline the process and ensure efficient service.
Book an appointment: On the website, follow the instructions to book your appointment. Provide the required information, including your personal details, preferred date and time for the appointment, and the purpose of your visit (in this case, membership application).
Confirm your appointment: Once you have selected a suitable date and time, review the details and confirm your appointment. Take note of the appointment reference number or any other relevant information provided.
Visit your selected OWWA office: On the scheduled date and time, go to the OWWA office you selected during the appointment booking. Bring all the required documentary requirements and your appointment details.
Submit your application: Upon arrival at the OWWA office, submit your application along with the necessary documents. The OWWA staff will guide you through the process and provide any additional instructions, if needed.
Pay the membership fee: After submitting your application, you will be required to pay the membership fee. The fee amount may vary, so ensure you have the necessary funds. Follow the payment instructions provided by the OWWA staff and keep the Official Receipt as proof of payment.

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is an agency and service arm of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) with the primary objective of promoting and safeguarding the rights and well-being of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). OWWA operates as a membership institution and offers various programs and services to OFWs and their eligible dependents. These initiatives are funded through the contributions collected from the members.

OWWA’s jurisdiction extends across the Philippines, ensuring assistance and support to OFWs and their dependents nationwide. Additionally, OWWA has established 31 posts in 27 different countries worldwide to cater to the needs of OFWs in those regions.

In summary, the OWWA is an important organization that operates under the DOLE’s umbrella. Its role involves advocating for the rights and welfare of OFWs while providing essential programs and services through member contributions. OWWA’s reach extends both domestically and internationally, supporting OFWs and their dependents across various locations.

Applying via Email/Online

Secure your documentary requirements and membership fee
Go to the official OWWA website of your country of destination and look for the email where you are to submit your requirements.
Submit your application via email. Keep in mind to practice proper email etiquette prior to submission.
Pay for your membership fee as instructed through online platforms and wait for your Official Receipt to be sent via separate email.
Validate your membership online via OWWA Mobile App.

Verifying, monitoring and renewing your membership

Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
Search for “OWWA Mobile App” in the search bar.
Locate the official OWWA Mobile App and tap on it.
Click on the “Install” button to begin the installation process.
Wait for the app to download and install on your device.
Once the installation is complete, you can find the OWWA Mobile App on your device’s home screen or app drawer.

For iOS users:

Open the App Store on your iOS device.
Search for “OWWA Mobile App” in the search bar.
Locate the official OWWA Mobile App and tap on it.
Tap on the “Get” button to download and install the app.
You might be prompted to enter your Apple ID password or use Face ID/Touch ID to authenticate the installation.
Wait for the app to download and install on your device.
Once the installation is complete, you can find the OWWA Mobile App on your device’s home screen.

Once you have installed the OWWA Mobile App, follow these steps to log in and validate your membership:

Launch the OWWA Mobile App on your device.
Enter your username and password in the respective fields. If you don’t have an account, you can sign up using the information from your membership application.
After logging in, click on the “Information” tab within the app.
Look for your membership status, which should be displayed as either “active” or “inactive.” This status indicates the validity of your membership.
Note that OWWA membership is typically valid for two years from the approval of your application or the issuance of your receipt.

If your membership status is inactive and you wish to renew your membership, follow these additional steps:

Click on the “Profile” section within the OWWA Mobile App.
Look for an option to pay the membership fee.
The app may direct you to the Mobile Online Payment System (MOPS) of Landbank – BancNet for the payment process.
Follow the provided instructions to complete the payment using the designated payment system.

By following these steps, you should be able to install the OWWA Mobile App, log in, validate your membership, and renew your membership if necessary.

An Introduction to OWWA Benefits and Programs for OFW Members

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers people have about the OWWA agency. Please be guided accordingly.

1. What is OWWA?

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a government agency and service arm of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) with the primary objective of promoting and safeguarding the rights and well-being of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). OWWA operates as an attached agency to DOLE and is entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring the welfare and protection of OFWs.

OWWA functions as a membership institution, offering various programs and services to OFWs and their eligible dependents. These services are made possible through the contributions collected from its members. The agency extends its support to OFWs and their dependents not only within the Philippines but also across 31 posts located in 27 countries worldwide.

The core mission of OWWA is to provide comprehensive assistance and support to OFWs throughout their employment abroad and upon their return to the Philippines. It strives to address the needs and concerns of OFWs, including their social, economic, and psychological well-being. OWWA’s programs encompass a wide range of services such as welfare assistance, educational scholarships, skills training, livelihood programs, and social benefits.

By offering these services, OWWA aims to empower OFWs and their families, promote their financial stability, and ensure their successful reintegration into the local community upon their return. The agency also collaborates with other government agencies, private organizations, and international partners to strengthen the protection and promotion of the rights of OFWs.

In summary, OWWA serves as an essential entity dedicated to the welfare and protection of OFWs and their dependents. It plays a pivotal role in providing necessary support, services, and programs to safeguard the rights and promote the overall well-being of overseas Filipino workers around the world.

2. What does OWWA do?

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a government agency in the Philippines that focuses on the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. OWWA is responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating benefit programs and services that cater to the different stages of an OFW’s journey, including pre-departure, on-site, and arrival activities.

Pre-departure services provided by OWWA aim to prepare OFWs for their employment abroad. These services may include pre-employment orientation seminars, skills training, and information dissemination about the rights and responsibilities of OFWs.

During the on-site phase, OWWA provides various programs and services to ensure the well-being of OFWs while they are working abroad. This may include social welfare services, legal assistance, medical support, and repatriation assistance in case of emergencies or distress situations.

Upon the arrival of OFWs back in the Philippines, OWWA continues to assist them through reintegration programs and services. These programs may include livelihood training, financial assistance, and other forms of support to help OFWs reintegrate into their local communities and start new livelihoods.

OWWA’s primary goal is to protect the rights and promote the welfare of OFWs and their families. The agency works closely with other government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international partners to provide comprehensive support and ensure the well-being of OFWs throughout their employment overseas and upon their return to the Philippines.

3. What does it mean to be an OWWA member?

Being an OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) member offers various benefits and services for you and your dependents. These benefits encompass a wide range of programs provided by OWWA, including scholarships, educational and livelihood programs, training opportunities, financial assistance, social and welfare aid, and overseas employment support, among others. By being part of the OWWA member community, you also gain access to a supportive network that caters to the needs of first-time, outgoing, and returning OFWs.

Let’s delve into some of the specific benefits and services offered by OWWA:

Scholarship Programs: OWWA provides educational assistance to qualified dependents of OFWs through scholarship programs. These scholarships cover various levels of education, from elementary to tertiary levels, including vocational and technical courses.
Educational and Livelihood Programs: OWWA offers training and skills development programs to enhance the employability and entrepreneurial capabilities of OFWs and their dependents. These programs aim to provide individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Financial Assistance: In times of need, OWWA provides financial support to eligible OFWs and their families. This assistance includes financial aid for disability, death, and burial benefits, as well as loans for livelihood projects or educational purposes.
Social and Welfare Assistance: OWWA extends social and welfare services to OFWs and their dependents, ensuring their well-being and addressing their welfare concerns. This may include medical and hospitalization assistance, legal counseling, psychosocial support, and repatriation assistance during emergencies.
Overseas Employment Assistance: OWWA facilitates the employment process for OFWs by providing pre-employment orientation seminars, job fairs, and other initiatives. They also assist in the repatriation and reintegration of distressed or returning OFWs, ensuring their smooth transition back to the Philippines.

Overall, being an OWWA OFW member opens up access to a range of benefit programs and services designed to support you and your dependents throughout your overseas employment journey. These initiatives aim to enhance your skills, education, and overall well-being, while also providing a supportive community for OFWs.

4. Who are qualified to be OWWA members?

The statement you provided seems to be discussing the membership eligibility requirements for the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in the Philippines. OWWA is a government agency that aims to protect and promote the welfare and well-being of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

According to the statement, any Filipino citizen who has worked or intends to work abroad can apply for OWWA membership. To become a member, they need to provide proof of overseas employment, which could include documents such as a valid employment contract, work visa, or overseas employment certificate.

It is also mentioned that documented OFWs, meaning those who have already been identified and registered as overseas workers, are automatically considered OWWA members. However, they are required to affirm their membership by either applying in person at the nearest OWWA office or through the online application process.

By becoming an OWWA member, overseas Filipino workers gain access to various benefits and programs provided by the agency. These benefits can include welfare assistance, training and education programs, social services, and repatriation assistance, among others.

It’s important to note that policies and regulations can change over time, so it’s advisable to consult official sources, such as the OWWA website or local government offices, for the most up-to-date information regarding OWWA membership requirements and procedures.

5. Is the OWWA membership for free?

The given statement discusses the cost of OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership and emphasizes its value despite the financial commitment. OWWA is an agency in the Philippines that aims to protect the rights and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

According to the statement, OWWA membership costs USD 25, which is approximately PhP 1,000 to PhP 1,500, depending on the country of destination. This membership contribution is valid for two years. The funds collected from membership fees are utilized by OWWA to finance various projects and services for OFWs.

The statement acknowledges that the membership cost might be seen as overwhelming to some individuals. However, it highlights that the benefits and assistance provided by OWWA to OFWs make the membership worthwhile. The specific advantages and services offered by OWWA would depend on the individual’s circumstances and needs as an OFW.

It’s important to note that while this information was accurate up until September 2021, there may have been updates or changes since then. It’s always a good idea to consult official sources or contact OWWA directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding membership fees and benefits.

6. Do I need to wait to become an OWWA member?

“No, there is no waitlist for OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) membership applications. However, since these applications are accepted throughout the year, it is advisable to apply for membership as soon as you have confirmed employment overseas. This will help ensure a prompt processing of your application.”

7. How do I apply for membership?

“Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) have the option to apply for OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) membership through two methods. They can secure an appointment at their nearest OWWA office by visiting https://appointment.owwa.gov.ph/ and submit the required documents during the scheduled visit. Alternatively, they can visit the official website of the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) or the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in their country of destination and submit the necessary requirements via email. The membership becomes active once the membership fee is paid and the official receipt is obtained.”

8. What is the difference between OWWA and DMW office?
OWWA, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, is currently an attached agency but will become a separate entity from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). While the DMW department provides overall support for migrant workers, OWWA’s main focus is on providing insurance and benefits specifically for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Although they work together, OWWA’s primary responsibility lies in ensuring the welfare and protection of OFWs through various insurance programs.

9. What is the difference between OWWA and POLO office?

The POLO office, which stands for Philippine Overseas Labor Office, is set to merge with the DMW department. It’s important to note that the POLO office operates in foreign countries and serves as a physical location for addressing labor concerns of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). On the other hand, the OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) primarily focuses on providing benefits to OFWs, particularly in relation to labor issues. Although these two entities have distinct functions, they both cater to the needs of OFW migrant workers.

Summary

OWWA truly exemplifies the Philippine government’s commitment to uphold the rights, welfare, and dignity of Filipinos. It serves as a tangible representation of this promise.

Amidst the unprecedented challenges posed by the global pandemic, OWWA remains steadfast in fulfilling its vision of nurturing globally competitive Filipinos who can effectively promote our culture and contribute to nation-building, regardless of their location.

“In light of the current circumstances, we emphasize the importance of unity and vigilance among all Filipinos working abroad. It is crucial for us to actively promote our welfare and safeguard our rights. We urge our fellow Kababayans to show their unwavering support for the programs and services of the OWWA Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Agency for OFWs Administration (OWWA) by either renewing their membership or applying for one promptly upon securing employment overseas. Additionally, we highly recommend visiting the official OWWA website at www.owwa.gov.ph to access comprehensive information about membership prerequisites and the benefits it entails.”

OWWA Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Agency for OFWs

Overview