The OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) has introduced an online website and mobile app called OWWA Uwian Na Portal and Mobile App Registration to assist Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in returning home to the Philippines and their respective home provinces. This initiative aims to streamline and expedite the process for OFWs who have tested negative for COVID-19 in the Philippines and wish to come back.

The global workforce has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in widespread layoffs and business closures, including the displacement of many Filipino workers abroad. The OWWA Uwian Na project seeks to address the challenges faced by OFWs and facilitate their safe and efficient return to the Philippines.

It is important to note that the OWWA Uwian Na Portal and the OWWA Mobile App are separate entities. The OWWA Uwian Na Portal is specifically designed for facilitating the return of OFWs, while the OWWA Mobile App serves a different purpose. For further details about the OWWA Mobile App, please refer to the “OWWA Mobile App Registration Guide” post.

The OWWA Uwian Na program underscores the commitment of the Philippine government and the OWWA to support and protect the welfare of OFWs, especially during these challenging times caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. By leveraging digital platforms, the program aims to simplify the repatriation process and enable a smooth transition for OFWs as they return to their home provinces in the Philippines.

Overview

The OWWA Uwian Na Portal and Mobile App is a registration system managed by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) that aims to expedite procedures for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have tested negative for COVID-19, completed their quarantine period, and wish to return to their home region.

This registration system is accessible through a website or mobile app. OFWs who register for repatriation through the Uwian Na Portal and Mobile App can expect a faster and more efficient service from the agency.

OWWA advises all OFWs to register in the Uwian Na system because it is one of the requirements to be able to return to the Philippines. Even if an OFW has a ticket to come home, it is not guaranteed until they have completed the Uwian Na registration process.

Additionally, it is important to note the OASIS OWWA GOV PH Program Registration, which may be relevant for OFWs.

Benefits

The OWWA Uwian Na Portal and Mobile App have been developed to streamline the repatriation process for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are stranded or desiring to return to their respective home regions in the Philippines. By registering on the portal, OFWs can avail themselves of several privileges, such as expedited scheduling for charter flights, grouping with other OFWs based on their destination, and the ability to choose their preferred quarantine hotel or facility as approved by OWWA.

The purpose of this portal and mobile app is to simplify and speed up the repatriation process for OFWs, ensuring that they can return to their families and communities in a timely manner. By leveraging digital technology, OWWA aims to provide a more efficient and organized system for the benefit of OFWs who are in need of repatriation services.

Requirements

To register for repatriation through Uwian Na Portal and Mobile App, applicants must prepare the documentary requirements:

Negative RT-PCR test result

PassportTo facilitate your RT-PCR test, you can complete the electronic Case Investigation Form (e-CIF) available on the PH Red Cross website at https://e-cif.redcross.org.ph/ before registering on OWWA Uwian Na. This form will also be required for your clearance, so make sure to undergo the test and fill out the form.Please note that the instructions are already written in English, as per your request. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask.

Procedure

You may apply for repatriation through the Uwian Na Portal or by downloading and registering to the Uwian Na Mobile App.

How to Register through the OWWA Uwian Na Portal

Go to the Uwian Na Portal by clicking on this link: http://uwianna.owwa.gov.ph/.
On the home page, carefully read through the general process displayed.
Locate and click on the “Register” button.
Fill in the registration form with your personal information. Provide accurate details as requested.
Select your home region or the destination where you plan to reside in the Philippines.
Choose a hotel for your mandatory quarantine upon arrival in the country. This is a required step.
Click on the “Upload Files” button to submit a soft copy (if sent online or through mail) or a photocopy (if in print) of your negative RT-PCR test result. Ensure the file meets the specified requirements.
After uploading your file, complete the security check by clicking on “I am not a robot.”
Review all the entered information to make sure it is accurate and complete.
Finally, click on the “Submit” button to complete the registration process.
Upon successful submission, you will receive a confirmation of your schedule on the screen and through the phone number you provided during registration.

It’s important to note that the information provided is based on the given instruction and may be subject to change. It’s always a good idea to visit the official Uwian Na Portal website for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the registration process.

How to Register through Uwian Na Mobile App

Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
Search for “OWWA Uwian na” in the search bar.
Tap on the app titled “OWWA Uwian na” when it appears in the search results.
Alternatively, you can directly access the app’s page using this link: OWWA Uwian Na on Google Play
On the app’s page, tap the “Install” button to begin downloading and installing the app.
Once the installation is complete, you can open the app.

For iOS users:

Open the App Store on your iOS device.
Search for “OWWA Uwian na” in the search bar.
Tap on the app titled “OWWA Uwian na” when it appears in the search results.
Alternatively, you can directly access the app’s page using this link: OWWA Uwian Na on App Store
On the app’s page, tap the “Get” or “Download” button to start the installation.
If prompted, authenticate with your Apple ID or use Touch ID/Face ID.
Once the installation is complete, you can open the app.

After downloading the app, follow these steps to register:

Launch the OWWA Uwian Na app.
If you have already registered, enter your login credentials (username and password) and tap “Login.” Otherwise, tap “Register” to create a new account.
Read through the general registration process displayed on your screen and then tap “Register Now!”
Fill in the required information on the registration form.
Select your home region or the destination where you plan to reside, as well as a hotel for your mandatory quarantine upon arrival in the country.
Confirm the accuracy of your submitted information by ticking the box.
Tap “Submit” to complete the registration process.

Once you have registered, you will receive an acknowledgment email for your registration, along with guidelines for proceeding with your travel plans. Keep in mind that to proceed with the reservation, you must be included in the list of OFW returnees who have tested negative on the RT-PCR test and are residing at an OWWA-approved quarantine facility.

Please note that the provided instructions were based on the information available up until September 2021. It’s recommended to refer to the official sources or contact OWWA directly for the most up-to-date instructions and guidelines regarding the OWWA Uwian Na Mobile app.

OFWs Assisted by DOLE and OWWA

In December 2020, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported that more than 550,000 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) were displaced due to the pandemic, according to an article from Inquirer. To assist these individuals, the government implemented the Abot Kamay ang Pagtulong (AKAP) program, which provided assistance to 350,000 OFWs. Additionally, educational grants were given to 25,697 dependents of these workers.

In July 2021, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) announced that 612,000 OFWs had been repatriated since May 2020. These repatriation efforts demonstrate the agency’s ongoing commitment to helping and serving the country’s modern-day heroes and valuable workforce, especially during a time when health and safety are at risk.

To further facilitate the repatriation process, the OWWA introduced the OWWA Uwian Na App. This application aims to simplify the return journey for OFWs, making it more convenient and efficient for them to come back to the Philippines.

Overall, these initiatives highlight the government’s dedication to supporting and safeguarding the welfare of OFWs, recognizing their significant contributions to the nation’s economy and development.

OFW Hatid Probinsya Procedure

“Here is a testimonial from another overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who recently shared his quarantine hotel experience and journey back home to the Philippines with the assistance of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) through the OFW Hatid Probinsya program.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Please go through these FAQs about the project for your reference:

1. What is OWWA Uwian Na?

OWWA Uwian Na” is a registration system designed to expedite the repatriation process for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have tested negative for COVID-19 while staying in OWWA-approved quarantine facilities overseas.

This system aims to facilitate the return of OFWs by streamlining the registration process, ensuring that they can quickly and efficiently make their way back to the Philippines. By utilizing OWWA-approved quarantine facilities abroad, the negative-tested OFWs can safely wait for their repatriation, minimizing the risk of spreading the virus.

The registration system helps in coordinating the necessary arrangements for the OFWs’ return, including flight bookings, transportation, and other logistical considerations. It is designed to prioritize the safety and well-being of the returning OFWs, ensuring that they can come back home in a timely and secure manner.

Through the implementation of “OWWA Uwian Na,” the repatriation process for OFWs who have tested negative for COVID-19 can be expedited, allowing them to reunite with their families and loved ones in the Philippines while maintaining the necessary health and safety protocols

2. Who can sign up in OWWA Uwian Na?

OFWs, whether land-based or sea-based, are eligible to register in OWWA Uwian Na if they meet the following criteria:

They have tested negative for COVID-19.
They are either: a. Currently staying in an OWWA-approved quarantine facility, or b. Included in the list of OFW repatriates with negative RT-PCR test results by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

To fulfill the requirement of a negative RT-PCR test result, OFWs can complete the electronic Case Investigation Form provided by the PH Red Cross. The form can be accessed at https://e-cif.redcross.org.ph/. It is important to note that this form will also be required for immigration purposes, so it is necessary to undergo testing and complete the form accordingly.

3. Where can I sign up?

OFWs who wish to be repatriated may register in two ways:

OWWA Uwian Na Portal website: Register at http://uwianna.owwa.gov.ph/
OWWA Uwian Na Mobile App: Download on Apple store or Google Play then register for an account
Android users can search for “OWWA Uwian on Google Play or visit the link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.uwinatayo&hl=en_GB&gl=US
iOS users can search for “OWWA Uwian na” on the App Store or visit the link: https://apps.apple.com/app/owwa-uwian-na/id1516577894

Can I sign up even if I am still abroad? Ideally, yes, you must sign up at OWWA Uwian Na at least 5 days prior to your return to the country, given that you tested negative in the RT-PCR test and are staying in an OWWA-approved quarantine facility.

4. What can I get from registering?

OFW repatriates who have registered in the OWWA Uwian Na portal or mobile app may enjoy the following benefits:

This proposal aims to enhance the efficiency of charter flight scheduling for repatriating Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to the Philippines. By implementing a system that groups OFW repatriates with the same destination and offering them the choice to lodge in their preferred OWWA-approved quarantine hotel or facility upon arrival, we can expedite the repatriation process and provide more convenience to returning OFWs.

Grouping OFW Repatriates: To streamline the repatriation process, we suggest grouping OFW repatriates with the same destination. Currently, charter flights often transport OFWs from various locations to multiple destinations in the Philippines. By consolidating repatriates with similar destinations onto a single charter flight, we can optimize resources, reduce costs, and expedite the scheduling process.

Implementation Steps: a) Establish a central database: Create a centralized database accessible to relevant government agencies, Philippine embassies/consulates, and recruitment agencies involved in repatriation efforts. This database will collect and organize repatriates’ information, including their current location, destination in the Philippines, and preferred quarantine accommodation.

b) Coordinate with relevant stakeholders: Collaborate with Philippine embassies/consulates, recruitment agencies, and airline companies to identify repatriates with the same destination. Regular communication channels should be established to facilitate information sharing and coordination.

c) Schedule charter flights: Once a sufficient number of repatriates with the same destination are identified, schedule charter flights accordingly. This approach will optimize flight capacity and ensure a direct route, reducing travel time and costs for repatriates.

Choice of Quarantine Accommodation: Upon arrival in the Philippines, repatriates should have the option to select their preferred OWWA-approved quarantine hotel or facility. This choice will provide them with flexibility and cater to their individual needs while ensuring compliance with health protocols.

Implementation Steps: a) Expand OWWA-approved quarantine options: Collaborate with OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) to expand the list of approved quarantine hotels or facilities. This should include a range of options catering to various budgets and preferences, such as hotels of different categories and other suitable accommodations.

b) Provide information and booking assistance: Establish a user-friendly online platform or hotline to provide repatriates with detailed information about available quarantine options, including their location, amenities, and pricing. Additionally, offer assistance in booking their preferred accommodation through this platform or hotline.

c) Prioritize preferences: Accommodate repatriates’ preferred quarantine choices as much as possible, based on availability. Efforts should be made to fulfill their preferences, ensuring a more comfortable and personalized quarantine experience.

5. What do I need to have to register?

To register for repatriation, you will need to provide a copy of your negative RT-PCR test result and passport. These documents must be uploaded during the registration process, whether through the website or mobile app.

6. Do I need to pay anything for registration?

No, registration in the OWWA Uwian Na portal is free. The OWWA Uwian Na mobile app on both Google Play and App Store is free to download as well.

7. Once I register, am I automatically getting my schedule?

“No, registering on the website does not guarantee an instant schedule for your return. You will receive an email notification confirming your registration and providing additional instructions for making your travel arrangements.”

8. How else can I contact OWWA for my return?

For further support and concerns, you may reach OWWA via email at uwianna@owwa.gov.ph or visit the OWWA official website at www.owwa.gov.ph or Facebook page at www.facebook.com/owwaofficial.

Summary

With the global surge of COVID-19 cases, concerns about personal health and safety have become more prominent than ever. This is particularly challenging for individuals who have been retrenched from their jobs and are now living away from their loved ones. The unpredictability of the situation adds to the anxiety, making it crucial for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to find a sense of homecoming and reassurance.

Fortunately, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has introduced the Uwian Na registration system, which significantly reduces the waiting time for a healthy reunion with loved ones. Through this system, the process of returning home has become more accessible than ever before. It is highly recommended for all OFWs to register their details in the portal to take advantage of the expedited repatriation procedures.OWWA Uwian Na Portal and Mobile App Registration, OFWs can regain a sense of belonging and security during these challenging times. Being able to return home swiftly not only alleviates worries about personal health and safety but also provides the comfort of being reunited with family and loved ones.

Contact Details

For more information and further inquiries on repatriation and other OWWA projects, email uwianna@owwa.gov.ph or visit the OWWA official website at www.owwa.gov.ph or Facebook page at www.facebook.com/owwaofficial.