Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Philippine Insurance for OFWs

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), an integral agency in the Philippines, serves as a cornerstone of assistance and guidance for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

Tasked with the noble duty of safeguarding the welfare of these hardworking individuals, OWWA’s impact stretches far beyond mere administrative support. It delves deep into the core of what it means to work abroad, ensuring safe, legal, and empowering experiences for countless Filipinos seeking opportunities beyond our shores.

Moreover, OWWA plays a significant role in empowering OFWs and their families. Through its various services and programs, it provides the tools and opportunities necessary for OFWs to build prosperous futures, impacting not just the individuals but their families and communities back home. The contributions of OFWs, backed by the services and assistance provided by OWWA, result in a significant influx of remittances and the enhancement of skilled manpower, essential components for the nation’s economic growth.

Mission and Vision of OWWA

Mission: At the core of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s (OWWA) mandate is a profound commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents.

This mission is realized through the provision of (1) comprehensive social security, (2) insurance, and other vital benefits. OWWA’s role extends to facilitating the smooth reintegration of OFWs into Philippine society upon their return.

The essence of this mission is to ensure that the dignity and rights of OFWs are upheld, providing them with a safety net that transcends borders.

Vision: OWWA aspires to be recognized globally as a premier institution, unwavering in its dedication to the empowerment and well-being of OFWs and their families.

This vision reflects a commitment to go beyond the traditional role of a welfare institution. Instead, it seeks to be a dynamic entity that actively contributes to the flourishing of OFWs, fostering an environment where they can thrive both during and after their overseas employment.

Key Values Underpinning OWWA’s Work:

1. Integrity: OWWA operates on the principles of ethical conduct, ensuring transparency and accountability in all its dealings.
2. Professionalism: The organization is committed to delivering services with utmost competence, dedication, and innovation.
3. Compassion: At the heart of OWWA’s approach is a deep empathy and respect for the needs and challenges faced by OFWs and their families.
4. Empowerment: OWWA focuses on equipping OFWs with essential skills and knowledge, enabling them to excel in the global job market and contribute meaningfully to the development of the Philippines.

Key Services and Programs Offered by OWWA

OWWA stands as a crucial support system for OFWs and their families, offering a diverse range of services and programs tailored to their unique needs. These initiatives encompass the entire migration cycle, from pre-departure preparation to post-employment reintegration, ensuring that OFWs are well-supported at every stage of their journey.

Pre-Departure Services

• Pre-Employment Orientation Seminars (PEOS): These mandatory seminars are instrumental in equipping OFWs with essential information about their rights, responsibilities, and the procedures of overseas employment, laying a solid foundation for their upcoming journey.
• Medical Examinations: Ensuring the health and fitness of OFWs for their work abroad, these examinations are a critical step in the pre-departure process.
• Livelihood Training Programs: These programs prepare OFWs for future entrepreneurial ventures, offering them skills to thrive in business upon their return.
• Financial Assistance: OWWA provides loans and financial aid to assist OFWs with the various expenses associated with their departure.
• Documentation and Verification Support: This includes assistance with securing necessary documents such as passports, visas, and POEA clearances, streamlining the process for OFWs.

During Employment

• Legal Assistance: OWWA offers legal support for OFWs encountering issues with employers or in their host countries.
• Social and Welfare Services: A range of services including counseling, psychological support, and family assistance programs are available to support the overall well-being of OFWs.
• Emergency Repatriation: In times of crisis, OWWA facilitates the safe and efficient return of OFWs to the Philippines.
• Overseas Remittance and Savings Solutions: These services provide secure and convenient ways for OFWs to manage their finances.
• Insurance Programs: Comprehensive coverage is available to safeguard OFWs against various risks, including death, disability, and medical emergencies.

Post-Employment

• Reintegration Assistance: This includes skills training, job placement assistance, and counseling to help OFWs adjust to life back in the Philippines.
• Livelihood Programs: Resources and support are offered for starting businesses or finding employment within the country.
• Scholarship Programs: Scholarships for the children of OFWs promote educational opportunities and advancement.
• Pension Programs: Managing pension schemes for OFWs who have contributed to the Overseas Workers Welfare Fund.

Additional Programs

• Education for Development and Scholarship Program (EDSP): Scholarships for qualified dependents of OFWs pursuing higher education.
• Seafarers’ Upgrading Program (SUP): Training and certification programs for seafarers to enhance their career prospects.
• OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP): Scholarships for dependents of OFWs pursuing tertiary education.
• Special Projects: Initiatives addressing specific challenges faced by OFWs.

OWWA’s commitment to the well-being and empowerment of OFWs remains unwavering. Through its comprehensive services and programs, OWWA ensures that Filipino workers overseas receive the support they need, reinforcing their ability to contribute significantly to their families and the Philippine economy.

Eligibility for OWWA Membership

OWWA opens its doors to a broad spectrum of Filipino citizens who aspire to work overseas, whether on land or at sea. Eligibility for OWWA membership encompasses:

• Land-based Workers: This category includes a diverse range of professionals and skilled workers such as household service workers (HSWs), nurses, teachers, engineers, construction workers, factory workers, service crew, and many others who seek employment opportunities abroad.
• Sea-based Workers: This group is composed of various maritime personnel like deck officers and crew, engine officers and crew, rating officers and crew, galley and catering crew, and other seafarers who work on ships and vessels.

Membership Requirements

To apply for OWWA membership, the following documents are necessary:

• A valid passport
• The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
• Employment contract
• Proof of payment for the OWWA membership fee, which is currently set at $25.00

Membership Application Process

There are two main ways to apply for OWWA membership:

1. Enrollment during POEA processing (for land-based workers):

1. File an application for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) at the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).
2. Pay the OWWA membership fee of $25.00. This fee is usually included in the overall processing fees for the OEC.
3. Submit the required documents:
   • Valid passport
   • Employment contract
   • Proof of payment of OWWA membership fee
4. Upon successful processing of the OEC, you will be automatically registered as an OWWA member.
5. Collect your OWWA membership card from the POEA office.

2. Voluntary registration (for land-based and sea-based workers):

1. Visit the nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) or Migrant Workers Office (MWO).
2. Obtain the OWWA membership application form.
3. Fill out the application form completely and accurately.
4. Submit the completed application form along with the required documents:
   • Valid passport
   • Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) (if applicable)
   • Employment contract (if applicable)
   • Proof of payment of OWWA membership fee of $25.00
5. Wait for the processing of your application.
6. Once approved, you will receive your OWWA membership card.

Additional notes:

• You can also apply for OWWA membership online through the OWWA website: https://membership.owwa.gov.ph/.
• The processing time for OWWA membership applications may vary depending on the office location and workload.
• It is important to keep your OWWA membership card valid by paying the annual membership fee of $25.00.
• For sea-based workers, the process for OWWA membership might differ slightly. It is best to contact the nearest MWO for specific instructions.

Benefits of OWWA Membership

Becoming a member of OWWA entitles OFWs to an extensive array of services and benefits, ensuring their welfare at every stage of their overseas employment:

• Pre-departure Services: These include pre-employment orientation seminars (PEOS), medical examinations, and financial assistance.
• During Employment: Members can avail of legal assistance, social and welfare services, emergency repatriation, and insurance programs.
• Post-employment: OWWA provides reintegration assistance, livelihood programs, scholarship programs, and pension programs.
• Member Benefits: Additional perks include discounts, access to healthcare facilities, legal advice, and more.

Membership in OWWA acts as a crucial safety net for OFWs and their families, offering peace of mind and a secure foundation as they navigate their journey overseas. By joining OWWA, OFWs gain not just a membership but a partnership that supports and empowers them throughout their overseas employment.

Did you know that active OWWA members have guaranteed benefits and may avail of services such as Calamity Assistance?

Is your OWWA membership active? To know your status, just download the OWWA Mobile App available in both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
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— Bureau of Communications Services PH (@bcs_gov) September 5, 2022

Video: One on One: OWWA Administrator Arnell Ignacio

Here’s a peek into the recent progress made in support of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs): In the first 100 days of the Marcos administration, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has reported the hiring and deployment of over 255,000 OFWs abroad. Furthermore, there’s a noticeable enhancement in the responsiveness to repatriation cases and in providing immediate assistance to OFWs in need.

Within this framework, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), operating as an attached agency of the DMW, continues to play a vital role in addressing the concerns and welfare of OFWs. OWWA Administrator Arnell Ignacio recently shed light on these developments in a special presentation with CNN Philippines senior correspondent and anchor Ruth Cabal, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to the well-being of Filipino workers globally.

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