The DOLE-OWWA-AKAP program is a financial support initiative for returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who faced the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program, backed by a dedicated budget for both pending and new applications, extends a helping hand by offering a one-time financial aid of Php 10,000.00 to each eligible displaced OFW. Designed to assist those who have lost their overseas employment temporarily or permanently due to the pandemic from February 2020 onwards, it provides aid in the recovery of affected Filipino workers abroad.
The program’s eligibility criteria encompass a wide array of OFWs, including those who are documented, active and inactive OWWA members, qualified undocumented workers, and Balik-Manggagawa unable to return due to lockdown measures. However, it excludes those who have previously received financial assistance under specific OWWA orders or the DOLE-AKAP itself, along with individuals whose contracts terminated for reasons not related to the pandemic. To apply, individuals must submit various documents such as proof of overseas employment, loss of employment due to COVID-19, and return to the Philippines.
What is DOLE-OWWA-AKAP for OFWs?
DOLE-OWWA-AKAP is a financial assistance program designed to support returning OFWs who have been directly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. With a budget allocation to cover both pending and new applications, the program offers a one-time financial aid of Php 10,000.00 to each qualified displaced OFW. This initiative caters to those who temporarily or permanently lost their overseas employment due to the COVID-19 outbreak, from its declaration in the Philippines in February 2020 until the lifting of restrictions by a legitimate and competent agency.
Significance
Launched due to COVID-19, the DOLE-OWWA AKAP program provided critical financial support (Php 10,000 per eligible OFW) to over 332,000 displaced or returning Filipino workers, totaling over 3 billion pesos in aid. Established by Department Order No. 212 in 2020, this program offered immediate financial relief, aided reintegration efforts, and demonstrated government commitment to supporting its citizens during a global crisis. While discontinued due to the pandemic’s evolving nature, the DOLE-OWWA AKAP remains important for its role in alleviating hardship and providing support to Filipino workers affected by the pandemic.
Legal Basis
The legal basis for the DOLE-OWWA AKAP program is Department Order No. 212, series of 2020, issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on April 13, 2020. This department order outlined the program’s guidelines, eligibility criteria, and implementation details, providing the legal framework for its execution and ensuring proper administration of the allocated funds.
Qualifications / Eligibility
The program extends its support to a broad range of OFWs, including:
- Documented OFWs
- Active and inactive OWWA members
- Qualified undocumented OFWs
- Balik-Manggagawa who couldn’t return to their host country due to lockdown measures
However, it’s important to note that OFWs who have previously received financial assistance under specific OWWA orders or the DOLE-AKAP, as well as those whose employment contracts ended for reasons unrelated to the pandemic, are not eligible for this program.
Requirements
To avail of the DOLE-OWWA-AKAP financial aid, applicants must provide:
- Passport or Travel Document
- Proof of Overseas Employment (e.g., Overseas Employment Contract, Balik Mangagagawa Online Certificate)
- Proof of Loss of Employment due to COVID-19
- Proof of Return to the Philippines for returning OFWs
Additionally, stranded Balik-Manggagawa must present their return ticket or boarding pass of their last arrival to the Philippines along with a valid visa.
How to Avail of the Cash Aid
Availing of the DOLE-OWWA-AKAP assistance is made straightforward through an online application process:
- Log on to the dedicated DOLE-AKAP website.
- Complete the online application form and attach the required documents.
- An One-Time-Pin (OTP) will be provided, serving as a reference for monitoring the application status.
- The Regional Welfare Office (RWO) will review and evaluate the application within 24 hours. Applicants will be notified if any requirements are missing.
- Approved applications will be encoded into the Beneficiary Availment Program (BAP) system by the RWOs.
- Applicants will receive notice of approval or disapproval via email or SMS within 2-3 days after the review.
- Finally, beneficiaries will be informed about the release of financial assistance through direct payment or Money Transfer.
Video: DOLE AKAP ₱10,000 CASH ASSISTANCE FOR OFW MAKUKUHA NA
In this video, you will find all the information you need about the DOLE-AKAP cash assistance program. From the step-by-step application process to the amount of financial aid you can receive, this guide covers everything. Discover who is eligible, which countries are covered, and how to submit your application. Plus, learn about the required documents, application status updates, processing time, and more. Don’t miss out on this essential guide to accessing your DOLE-AKAP financial assistance.
Check out all the cash aid programs offered by OWWA here:
Conclusion
In conclusion, the DOLE-OWWA-AKAP program has been a cornerstone of support for OFWs impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting the government’s dedication to safeguarding its citizens abroad. By providing essential financial assistance, the program has not only alleviated immediate financial burdens but also contributed to the broader efforts of reintegration into the domestic workforce. As the world continues to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, initiatives like DOLE-OWWA-AKAP remain critical in ensuring that no Filipino worker is left behind in the journey towards recovery and stability.