More than Php 1.01 billion in government assistance and support has been provided to overseas Filipino workers affected by crises and other difficult situations abroad, according to the Department of Migrant Workers.
The latest figures form part of the government’s UPLIFT “Saving Lives” program, involving the DMW, OWWA, and other agencies.
For OFWs in Qatar, the report gives a clearer picture of the government services that may support workers during emergencies, repatriation, and their eventual return to the Philippines.
161,034 Services Provided to OFWs
As of September 25, DMW recorded 161,034 assistance and services provided to OFWs.
Of these, 99,931 were onsite services, meaning assistance delivered while workers were still overseas.
Another 44,402 were post-arrival services for returning OFWs.
Government support may include financial aid, food, medical assistance, shelter, airfare, and transportation, depending on a worker’s situation.
Government Spends Php 1.01 Billion on Support
DMW figures show that:
- Php 732.8 million went to onsite assistance
- Php 244.1 million went to post-arrival assistance
- Php 33.9 million went to reintegration assistance
The total reached approximately Php 1.01 billion.
The amount represents assistance already delivered and should not be confused with a Php 1.01-billion fund open for general applications.
More Than 14,000 OFWs Returned Home
The government also reported the safe repatriation of 14,134 OFWs from 16 countries.
A total of 398 flights were used in repatriation operations.
Once home, some returning workers also received additional assistance to help them rebuild their livelihood or find new employment.
16,701 Workers Receive Reintegration Help
DMW said 16,701 OFWs received reintegration assistance covering job facilitation, training, livelihood programs, and medical or psychosocial support.
What Qatar OFWs Should Know
Filipinos working in Qatar do not need to take action simply because of the Php 1.01-billion announcement.
However, OFWs facing an emergency or distress situation should know that several government services exist and that eligibility depends on the worker’s circumstances and the assistance program involved.