Clarifying OWWA Assistance for Overseas Filipino Workers
Financial help from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) depends on more than just completing a contract abroad. This key point was highlighted during a recent public inquiry segment, where a viewer asked, “Sa OWWA assistance po ba, ‘pag finished contract, may makukuha po ba akong P20,000?” (With OWWA assistance, when the contract is finished, will I get P20,000?)
Many expect an automatic P20,000 payout from OWWA after finishing their overseas contract. However, sources familiar with the matter clarified that neither the law nor OWWA’s current programs guarantee this payment simply for completing a contract.
Employment Contract Determines Benefits
The contract of employment plays a crucial role in deciding what benefits an OFW may receive. Typically, OFWs are contract workers, meaning their rights and benefits are guided not only by the laws of the host country but also by the terms stipulated in their contracts. If the contract includes a provision for a payment upon completion, the OFW will receive it directly from the employer abroad.
“Usually kapag nasa ibang bansa ka, kaya ang tawag natin contract workers, kasi ang gumagabay sa ‘yo bukod sa batas ng bansang ‘yon, ay ‘yung kontrata. So kung sa kontrata mo mismo ay may nakasabi do’n na may makukuha ka ‘pag finished contract, do’n mo makukuha ‘yon sa amo mo do’n,” explained local experts.
OWWA’s Role and Livelihood Programs
For OFWs who find themselves displaced or distressed due to unexpected job loss, OWWA offers the Balik-Pinas, Balik-Hanapbuhay program. This initiative provides up to P20,000 in financial assistance to help returning workers start new livelihoods in the Philippines. However, this support is specific to displaced workers and does not apply to all who have simply finished their contracts.
Challenges Beyond Finishing Contracts
Being an overseas Filipino worker does not guarantee that all problems are solved once the contract ends. Many returning OFWs continue to face challenges in securing stable income and opportunities at home. Community leaders said, “Siguro makikita natin [dito] na hindi porke nakapag-abroad na ay lahat ng problema, nasolusyonan na. Kaya marami po [na OFW] ay bumabalik sa Pilipinas at naghahanap pa rin ng magandang pagkakakitaan.”
This highlights the ongoing need for programs that support OFWs not just while abroad, but also during their reintegration into Philippine society.
Continued Advocacy for OFWs
Advocates for OFW welfare continue to emphasize the importance of understanding the specific benefits available and the conditions attached to them. Accurate information helps workers make informed decisions and better prepare for their futures.
For more news and updates on OWWA assistance for overseas Filipino workers, visit Filipinokami.com.