OWWA Social Benefits and Projects
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is an agency in the Philippines that provides various social benefits to assist Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. These benefits aim to support OFWs in times of need and provide them with financial assistance, healthcare, and other essential services. Some of the social benefits offered by OWWA Social Benefits and Projects include:
- Disability and Dismemberment Benefit: This benefit provides financial assistance to OFWs who suffer from permanent disability or dismemberment due to work-related accidents or illnesses.
- Death Benefit: In the unfortunate event of an OFW’s death while working abroad, OWWA offers a death benefit to the bereaved family. This benefit assists in covering funeral expenses and provides additional financial aid.
- Education and Training Assistance: OWWA provides educational assistance to the qualified dependents of OFWs, including scholarships, grants, and loans for their education and skills training.
- Health Care Program: OWWA offers a comprehensive healthcare program that covers medical and hospitalization expenses for OFWs and their dependents. This program includes medical consultations, laboratory tests, medicines, and hospitalization coverage.
- Repatriation Assistance: In cases where OFWs encounter problems abroad or wish to return to the Philippines, OWWA provides repatriation assistance, including the payment of transportation costs and other necessary support.
- Livelihood Assistance: OWWA assists OFWs in establishing livelihood projects or small businesses upon their return to the Philippines. This support includes financial and technical assistance, training programs, and access to business development services.
The social benefits provided by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) play a crucial role in supporting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families. These benefits are designed to assist OFWs and their legal beneficiaries during challenging situations. Here are some of the key social benefits offered by OWWA:
- Cash Assistance: OWWA provides cash assistance to qualified OFWs and their beneficiaries in times of need. This assistance can be utilized in various situations such as calamities, health issues, accidental injuries, and even in the unfortunate event of an OFW’s death. The cash assistance aims to provide immediate financial support during emergencies.
- Education and Training Programs: OWWA offers educational and training programs for OFWs and their dependents. These programs include scholarships, vocational training, and skills development courses. By investing in education and skills enhancement, OWWA aims to improve the employability and long-term prospects of OFWs and their families.
- Repatriation Assistance: In cases where an OFW needs to be repatriated due to job loss, contract issues, or other circumstances, OWWA provides repatriation assistance. This includes financial support for the return journey to the Philippines, as well as assistance with necessary documentation and logistics.
- Social Services and Welfare Programs: OWWA promotes the welfare of OFWs by offering various social services. These include legal assistance, counseling, medical and hospitalization benefits, and livelihood programs. These services aim to address the specific needs and concerns of OFWs and their families, ensuring their well-being and overall welfare.
- Social Benefits for Legal Beneficiaries: OWWA also extends its social benefits to the legal beneficiaries of OFWs. This means that even if the OFW is unable to personally access the benefits, their dependents or immediate family members can still avail themselves of the assistance provided by OWWA.
The importance of OWWA membership lies in the fact that it serves as a safety net for OFWs and their families. By being a member of OWWA, OFWs gain access to these social benefits and support systems, which can be crucial during times of crisis or when facing challenges abroad. It provides a sense of security and assistance to OFWs and their loved ones, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and protection.
OWWA Social Benefits for OFWs and Dependents
Disability and Dismemberment
The Disability and Dismemberment benefit provided by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers cash assistance to its members who have experienced injuries resulting from accidents that occurred during their employment overseas. This benefit grants eligible OWWA members a maximum amount of P100,000 as financial assistance.
To qualify for this benefit, individuals must meet certain criteria set by the OWWA. They must be active members of the OWWA and have paid the necessary membership contributions. Additionally, the injuries sustained must be directly caused by work-related accidents that occurred while the member was employed abroad.
The specific amount of cash assistance received may vary depending on the severity and nature of the injuries sustained. The P100,000 limit represents the maximum benefit amount that can be granted to eligible OWWA members.
It’s important to note that the information provided here is based on general knowledge up until September 2021. It’s advisable to verify the current guidelines and policies directly with the OWWA or refer to their official website for the most up-to-date information regarding the Disability and Dismemberment benefit.
Qualifications
The Disability and Dismemberment benefits are only accessible to active OWWA members who develop the condition during their work overseas.
Requirements
- Accident Report/Masters Report for seafarer (from the employer): This report should provide details about the accident or incident that caused the disability or dismemberment. It is typically obtained from the employer of the seafarer.
- At least one (1) valid ID of the authorized claimant (from OFWs authorized claimant): The authorized claimant, who is usually a family member or a representative of the disabled or dismembered individual, should provide at least one valid identification document.
- Copy of passport or Seaman’s Identification Record Book (SIRB) of the OFW member (from MARINA): If the disabled or dismembered individual is an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), a copy of their passport or Seaman’s Identification Record Book (SIRB) should be provided. This requirement is usually obtained from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
- Foreign Medical Certificate with English Translation (from OWWA-POLO): If the disability or dismemberment occurred abroad, a foreign medical certificate detailing the condition should be provided. This certificate should be translated into English and obtained from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration – Philippine Overseas Labor Office (OWWA-POLO).
- Medical Certificate with the indicated procedure of the medical examination/procedure of the doctor in the Philippines: A medical certificate should be obtained from a competent medical practitioner working in a legitimate medical institution or facility in the Philippines. The certificate should include details of the medical examination or procedure conducted on the disabled or dismembered individual.
- OFW Membership Record (MR) (from OWWA RWO): The Membership Record (MR) of the OFW should be obtained from the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO). This record serves as proof of membership and eligibility for disability and dismemberment benefits.
- One (1) copy of a 1×1 picture (from OFW Member): The OFW member, who is the disabled or dismembered individual, should provide one copy of a recent 1×1 picture.
- Present an Authorization Letter with the ID of the OFW if the claimant is not the OFW: If the authorized claimant is not the disabled or dismembered OFW, they should present an Authorization Letter along with the ID of the OFW member. This letter authorizes the claimant to process and receive the disability or dismemberment benefits on behalf of the OFW.
It’s important to note that specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on the country and the organization providing the benefits. It’s advisable to consult the relevant authorities or agencies involved to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the documentary requirements.
Procedures
To apply for Disability and Dismemberment benefits from OWWA, follow the steps below:
- Go to the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO), which covers your permanent address.
- Secure a priority number (ticket) and wait for the OWWA representative to accommodate you.
- Show the OFW ID or details to the Membership Verification Desk.
- Depending on the membership status, secure application form and requirements checklist.
- Submit the documentary requirements and duly-accomplished claim form for verification.
- If approved, show the claim stub and claim financial assistance via cash or check payout.
Death and Burial
The Death Benefit is an insurance program specifically designed to provide financial support to the surviving family members of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have passed away while being active members of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). This program offers various forms of assistance to the legal beneficiaries of deceased OFWs.
In the case of natural deaths, the legal beneficiaries are entitled to receive a cash assistance amounting to P100,000. This monetary support aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by the family during such difficult times.
For deaths resulting from accidents, the beneficiaries of the deceased OFWs will receive a higher cash assistance of P200,000. This increased amount recognizes the sudden and unexpected nature of accidents and aims to provide additional support to the affected families.
Additionally, the program includes a Burial Gratuity worth P20,000. This specific financial aid is intended to assist the legal beneficiaries in arranging a respectable burial for their departed loved ones. The Burial Gratuity helps cover the expenses associated with the funeral and related arrangements.
The Death Benefit program serves as a means of providing financial assistance and support to the families left behind by deceased OFWs, acknowledging their contributions and sacrifices for the nation’s economy. By offering these cash benefits and burial assistance, the program aims to help alleviate the financial strain and provide some relief during a challenging time for the bereaved families.”
Qualifications
Eligible dependents of deceased OFW members qualify for the Death and Burial benefits of OWWA.
Requirements
To secure the Death and Burial benefits from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for eligible dependents of deceased OFW members, the following documentary requirements are typically needed:
- Death Certificate: A certified true copy of the OFW member’s death certificate should be submitted. It should be issued by the local civil registrar or the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
- Employment Contract: The original or a certified true copy of the deceased OFW member’s employment contract should be provided. This document serves as proof of the member’s overseas employment.
- OWWA Membership Record: The OWWA membership record of the deceased OFW member should be presented. This can be obtained from the OWWA office or their website.
- Valid ID of the Claimant: The claimant, who is usually the eligible dependent, must provide a valid identification document. This can be a passport, driver’s license, postal ID, or any government-issued ID with a photo and signature.
- Birth Certificate of Dependents: The birth certificates of the deceased OFW member’s eligible dependents should be submitted. These birth certificates should be issued by the local civil registrar or the PSA.
- Marriage Certificate: If the eligible dependent is the surviving spouse, a copy of the marriage certificate should be provided. The marriage certificate should also be issued by the local civil registrar or the PSA.
- Proof of OWWA Membership Payments: Evidence of OWWA membership payments made by the deceased OFW member, such as receipts or OWWA payment records, should be included in the documentary requirements.
- Other Supporting Documents: Additional documents may be required depending on the specific circumstances. These could include the OFW member’s overseas employment records, proof of remittances, or any other documents that can establish the relationship between the deceased OFW member and the claimant.Local Civil Registrar):
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- For single/unmarried OFW members: Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR)
- For married OFWs: Marriage Certificate
- For parent claimants: Birth Certificate of OFW
For the child of OFWs: Birth Certificate of the claimant and death certificate of the deceased spouse
Procedures
To apply for Death and Burial benefits from OWWA, follow the steps below:
- Go to the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO), which covers your permanent address.
- Queue in the line or secure a queuing number.
- Show the OFW ID or details to the Membership Verification Desk.
- Depending on the membership status, secure application form and requirements checklist.
- Submit the documentary requirements and duly-accomplished claim form for verification.
- If approved, show the claim stub and claim financial assistance via cash or check payout.
Social Benefits for Seafarers: OWWA offers specific benefits for seafarers, including the Seafarers’ Upgrading Program, which provides training and skills enhancement opportunities for seafarers to improve their employability and career advancement.
Supplementary Medical Assistance (MEDplus)
but I couldn’t find any specific information about a program called “Supplementary Medical Assistance” or “MEDplus” offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) or the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) in my training data up to September 2021.
However, it’s important to note that government programs and policies can change over time, and new initiatives may have been introduced since my last update. I recommend contacting the OWWA or PhilHealth directly to inquire about the availability and details of any supplementary medical assistance programs for OFW PhilHealth members. They should be able to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information on the subject.
Qualifications
The MEDplus Social Benefit from OWWA is open to active OWWA members with active PhilHealth Membership.
Requirements
Here are the following documentary requirements to obtain for the qualified beneficiaries of MEDplus benefits from OWWA:
- Member Data Record (from PhilHealth)
- Medical Certificate (from a Competent medical practitioner from a legitimate medical institution/facility)
- MEDPlus Application Form (from OWWA RWO)
- OFW Membership Record (MR) (from OWWA RWO)
- One (1) copy of a passport-size photo (from the OFW member or claimant)
- Valid ID (from company or government-issued)
- Valid passport (from DFA)
- For family members who will claim the assistance due to (from Legal Practitioner PSA or Local Civil Registrar LCR):
- For OFWs still abroad- Duly notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA) performed by the OFW
- For deceased OFWs- Death Certificate of the deceased OFW / Marriage Contract or Birth Certificate of NOK-claimant from PSA
Procedures
To apply for Supplementary Medical Assistance (MEDplus), follow the steps below:
- Go to the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) which covers your permanent address.
- Obtain a priority number (ticket) and wait for an OWWA representative to assist you.
- Present your ID at the Social Benefits Unit Counter to validate your OFW Membership Record.
- Request an MEDPlus Application Form and gather all the required supporting documents, provided that your Membership Data Record (MDR) and membership are valid.
- Submit the completed MEDPlus Application Form along with the necessary documents.
- If your application is approved, you will receive a claim stub indicating the details of your financial assistance, which can be claimed through cash or check payout.
- Proceed to the Cashier Releasing Window and present two (2) valid company or government-issued IDs.
Follow the instructions given by the cashier to complete the process and receive your financial assistance.
Welfare Assistance Program (WAP)
The Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is designed to provide financial relief support to OWWA members or their families who are ineligible for other existing social benefits from the agency. The program aims to assist individuals under the following conditions:
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Calamity Assistance: This assistance is available to active OWWA members and their families who have been affected by natural disasters such as earthquakes, severe flooding, and super typhoons. It is also applicable to OFW members residing in areas that have been declared under a State of Calamity by the local government unit (LGU) or the President.
- Bereavement Assistance: This program provides support to the legal dependents of deceased OFWs.
- Disability Assistance: OWWA members who have become victims of accidents or crimes are eligible for this assistance.
- Medical Assistance: This cash assistance is provided to OWWA members who are suffering from illnesses that are not covered under the MEDplus program.
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Relief Assistance: This program is designed for OWWA members who have been displaced or laid off due to political, health-related, bankruptcy, economic, or other relevant circumstances.
Qualifications
The Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) from OWWA is accessible to OFW members or their qualified dependents.
Requirements
Qualified beneficiaries of the Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) must secure the documentary requirements based on the following types of cash assistance from OWWA:
For Calamity Assistance:
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- At least two (2) valid IDs of OFW or Claimant (company or government-issued)
- Barangay Certificate as a resident of an emergency/disaster-affected community (from Barangay Council).
- If the claimant is not the OFW, present an Authorization Letter with the ID of the OFW (from the OFW member).
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Obtain a Certification if a victim of a fire incident (from the Bureau of Fire Protection).For Bereavement Assistance:
- At least two (2) valid IDs of the Claimant (company or government-issued)
- Death Certificate (from Philippine Statistics Authority or Local Civil Registrar)
- Joint Affidavit of two disinterested persons who witnessed the administration of burial rites (from Notary Public)
- Proof of relationship with OFW, such as a Birth Certificate or Marriage Contract (from the Philippine Statistics Authority or Local Civil Registrar)
For Disability Assistance:
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- Two (2) valid identification cards of the Claimant (issued by either a company or government authority).
- Accident/Police Report obtained from the Police Authorities with jurisdiction over the incident.
- Medical Certificate or Examination Procedure Result from a competent practitioner and a recognized medical institution/facility.
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Special Power of Attorney (PSA) if the claimant is not the overseas Filipino worker (OFW), which should be prepared by a legitimate law/legal practitioner.”For Medical Assistance:
- At least two (2) valid IDs of OFW or Claimant (company or government-issued)
- If the claimant is not the OFW, present an Authorization Letter with the ID of the OFW (from the OFW member).
- Original Medical Certificate/Abstract with PTR No. of Attending Physician (from Competent Practitioner and Medical Institution/Facility)
For Relief Assistance:
- At least two (2) valid IDs of OFW or Claimant (company or government-issued)
- Certification (from OWWA-POLO of OFWs job sites)
- If the claimant is not the OFW, present an Authorization Letter with the ID of the OFW (from the OFW member).
- Proof of Displacement, such as Termination of Contract or Working Visa (from employer)
Procedures
To apply for OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) cash assistance, follow the steps below:
- Go to the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO), which covers your permanent address.
- Secure a priority number (ticket) and wait for the OWWA representative to accommodate you.
- Show the OFW ID or details to the Membership Verification Desk.
- Depending on the membership status, secure application form and requirements checklist.
- Submit the documentary requirements and duly-accomplished claim form for verification.
- If approved, show the claim stub and claim financial assistance via cash or check payout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Social Benefits for OWWA members?
OFW members and their dependents are eligible to receive various social benefits from OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration). These benefits include Disability and Dismemberment, Death and Burial, Supplementary Medical Assistance (MEDplus), and Welfare Assistance Program (WAP).
How to claim Social Benefits from OWWA?
To be eligible for OWWA Social Benefits, OFW members or their legal beneficiaries must obtain the necessary documents and then proceed to the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) that corresponds to their permanent address. It is at the RWO where they can claim the OWWA Social Benefits.”
Please note that the paraphrased version retains the meaning of the original statement while using different words and sentence structures.
Summary
I understand that active members of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and their families are eligible for various OWWA Social Benefits and Projects, provided they meet the necessary requirements and qualifications. These benefits encompass a range of areas, including disability and medical assistance, support in times of calamities, as well as assistance in the unfortunate events of death and burial. The primary objective of these OWWA Social Benefits is to aid OFW members and their dependents during times of necessity.
It is important for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to maintain their OWWA membership in order to ensure access to these valuable OWWA Social Benefits. By doing so, they can secure the necessary support for themselves and their families when they need it most.
