The Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program (BPBH) is a key initiative by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) aimed at providing crucial support to returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have encountered difficulties such as job loss or economic challenges abroad. This offers a comprehensive package that includes financial aid, entrepreneurial training, and assistance in reintegrating into the local economy. It targets both active and inactive members of OWWA, offering up to Php 20,000 in cash grants for active members and a lower range for inactive ones, along with resources like starter kits for various livelihood projects. The BPBH has successfully supported over 4,251 beneficiaries, contributing significantly to the Philippines’ economic growth by enabling job creation, skill development, and reducing social costs associated with unemployment and underemployment among returning OFWs.
Notable beneficiaries, including Eduardo Escabosa and Alquin Saligumba, have demonstrated the positive impact of the initiative by establishing successful businesses that contribute to their communities and the country’s economy. It not only facilitates economic reintegration for returning OFWs but also support its citizens facing challenges after working abroad.
What is the BPBH Program?
BPBH is a livelihood assistance program offering financial aid and training to eligible returning OFWs. It aims to empower and support individuals facing challenges like job termination, economic hardship, or political unrest in their host countries.
Significance of the Program
The OWWA Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! empowers returning Filipino migrant workers by offering financial aid, entrepreneurial training, and reintegration support. This not only benefits individuals by fostering self-sufficiency and smoother transitions but also contributes to the Philippines’ economic growth through job creation, skilled workforce development, and reduced social costs.
With over 4,251 beneficiaries and a Php 1 billion+ economic impact, BPBH holds significant value, backed by legal frameworks like the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act.
Who is eligible?
Both active and inactive OWWA members can apply, provided they meet specific criteria:
- Repatriated due to distress: This includes job loss, abuse, or natural disasters.
- Displaced due to economic, political, or social factors.
- Seeking to start or expand a livelihood project.
- Inactive members: Must have made at least one OWWA membership contribution.
What are the benefits?
Approved applicants receive a cash grant of up to Php 20,000 for active members and Php 5,000-10,000 for inactive members. Additionally, it offers:
- Entrepreneurial development training (EDT): Equips you with essential business skills.
- Starter kits or goods: Provides initial supplies for your chosen livelihood project.
- Other support services: Guidance and assistance throughout the process.
How to apply:
- Gather documents: Proof of membership, repatriation, residency, displacement, and business plan.
- Visit your nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO): Submit documents and schedule an appointment for EDT.
- Attend the EDT session: Gain valuable knowledge and skills.
- Submit completed application and business plan: Await processing and decision.
- If approved: Claim your financial assistance and begin your entrepreneurial journey!
Recent Updates
Orientation on Balik Pinas Balik Hanapbuhay (BPBH) Program and Entrepreneurial Development Training
The Regional Welfare Office XI conducted an orientation on the BPBH Program and Entrepreneurial Development Training as part of the Reintegration Program of OWWA. The activity, attended by twenty-seven distressed OFWs from different municipalities of Davao de Oro, provided guidelines on availing the livelihood assistance and presented steps in preparing a simple business plan. The BPBH offers a maximum of Php 20,000.00 as start-up or additional capital for livelihood projects, providing immediate relief to returning member-OFWs.
In a compassionate response, the Welfare Assistance Unit (WAU) of OWWA Region 02 Cagayan Valley extended immediate medical aid to a fellow OFW from Cauayan City, Isabela. The OFW, who had been working as a household service worker in Abu Dhabi since 2006, unfortunately suffered injuries and fractures due to an accident. With the dedicated support of the OWWA Nurse and Repatriation Team, they closely monitored the OFW’s condition and provided necessary medical assistance to ensure a safe journey back home to Cauayan City. As an active OWWA member, the OFW is entitled to benefits such as WAP Medical/Illness Assistance and the Balik Pinas Balik Hanapbuhay (BPBH) Livelihood Program.
Through the Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay (BPBH), OFW Eduardo Escabosa received a Php 20,000 livelihood assistance which he used to establish his E-Mushroom Farm in 2019. Now, he aspires to generate employment opportunities and promote the nutritional benefits of oyster mushrooms to every Boholano household.
Video: OWWA XI BPBH Beneficiary Testimony Alquin Saligumba from Davao de Oro
Former OFW Alquin Saligumba, hailing from Mawab, Davao de Oro, is a shining example of the success of the Balik Pinas Balik Hanapbuhay (BPBH) by OWWA. After being repatriated from his job as an Aircraft Technician in Singapore due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Saligumba utilized the Php20,000.00 livelihood assistance he received to invest in machines for his grinding services, specializing in coconut, cacao, and cassava.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! stands out as a critical lifeline for returning Overseas Filipino Workers, providing them with the necessary tools and resources to navigate the challenges of reintegrating into the Philippine economy. Through financial support, entrepreneurial training, and a variety of reintegration services, the initiative empowers OFWs to transition smoothly from overseas employment to sustainable livelihood opportunities within their homeland. The success stories and significant impacts highlighted underscore the program’s effectiveness in fostering economic independence, skill development, and contributing to the national economy.