The “Parokya ng OWWA” program, initiated by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), aims to empower overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families by bringing essential government services directly to their communities.
Targeting migrant workers and their dependents, this program offers a range of support including welfare assistance, skills training, educational scholarships, social benefits, and reintegration programs.
By engaging with migrant workers at the grassroots level, OWWA ensures they receive practical assistance and valuable information, fostering lasting positive change and enhancing their overall well-being.
Program Overview
OWWA’s “Parokya” program is designed to empower migrant workers and their families by engaging with them in their local communities.
The goal is to provide practical assistance and create lasting positive changes.
OWWA aims to reach even the farthest barangays, informing people about the programs and services offered to Filipinos abroad.
This includes:
- Welfare Assistance: Help for OFWs in distress, including repatriation, legal assistance, and counseling.
- Skills Training and Livelihood Programs: Training to improve skills and provide livelihood assistance for starting businesses.
- Education and Scholarship Programs: Scholarships for dependents of OFWs for college and technical-vocational courses.
- Social Benefits: Disability and death benefits, medical assistance, and insurance coverage.
- Reintegration Programs: Assistance for OFWs returning to the Philippines, including employment facilitation and entrepreneurship development.
Step-by-Step Guide to Access the “Parokya ng OWWA” Program
1. Locate OWWA Services
Find the nearest OWWA regional office or representative in your barangay. Contact them to inquire about available services and assistance.
2. Choose a Program
- Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-unlad ng Samahang OFWs (Tulong PUSO) This program provides a one-time financial grant to support OFW group business plans.
- Skills Training and Livelihood Programs OWWA offers various training programs to enhance the skills of Filipinos abroad and their families.
- Education and Scholarship Programs Scholarships are available for college and technical-vocational courses for OFWs’ dependents.
- Social Benefits Receive benefits such as disability and death benefits, medical and hospitalization assistance, and insurance coverage.
3. Apply for Assistance
Fill out the necessary application forms and submit them to the OWWA representative. Provide required documents, such as proof of status of Filipino workers abroad and other relevant paperwork.
4. Participate in Training and Monitoring
Attend training sessions and workshops to enhance your skills. Participate in business monitoring activities to ascertain the successful implementation and progress of your business.
5. Monitor Progress and Evaluation
Regularly check on the progress of your business and the effectiveness of the programs. Provide feedback to OWWA on the services received to help improve the program.
Additional Tips for Success
- Financial Literacy: Participate in financial literacy workshops to improve your financial management and budgeting skills.
- Community Engagement: Engage with other migrant workers and their families in your community to share experiences and support each other.
- Continuous Support: OWWA provides ongoing support and assistance throughout the program for the success of your business and personal endeavors.
Key Services of the “Parokya ng OWWA” Program
Welfare Assistance
OWWA provides timely support to OFWs in distress. This includes:
- Repatriation services to bring OFWs home safely.
- Legal assistance for resolving work-related issues.
- Counseling services to support mental health and well-being.
Skills Training and Livelihood Programs
OWWA offers skills training to improve the capabilities of overseas Filipino workers and their families. These programs help participants gain new skills and start their own businesses.
Education and Scholarship Programs
OWWA provides scholarships for college and technical-vocational courses to OFWs’ dependents. This move helps families improve their educational attainment and future prospects.
Social Benefits
OWWA offers a range of social benefits, including:
- Disability and death benefits for OFWs.
- Medical and hospitalization assistance.
- Insurance coverage to protect OFWs and their families.
Reintegration Programs
OWWA supports the reintegration of our kababayan back into Philippine society through programs such as:
- Employment facilitation to help returning overseas Filipino workers find jobs.
- Entrepreneurship development to encourage business ventures.
- Community development projects to enhance local communities.
Recent Updates
OWWA Provides Financial Assistance to Families of Overseas Workers
OWWA extends financial aid to approximately 200 families of migrant workers in BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, totaling around P2.3 million. The assistance covers various needs such as support for disabilities, funeral expenses, medical costs, scholarships, and livelihood projects, aiming to enhance the economic well-being of overseas Filipino workers and their families. (PIA)
OWWA Services Outreach in Abra Benefits Overseas Workers and Families
Over 500 Overseas Filipino Workers and their families in Abra province receive assistance and information through the “Parokya ng OWWA-Panagdanggay Ti Umili” program, providing access to government services, legal and medical consultations, dental care, beauty services, and family food packages. The event aims to empower migrant workers to understand their rights and avail themselves of various benefits and support services offered by the government. (PIA)
Video: Parokya ng OWWA sa Barangay at Pamilyang OFW sa Natividad, Pangasinan
OWWA Region 1 organized an event in Brgy. San Macario Sur, Natividad, Pangasinan, providing knowledge, programs, services, and joy to 115 OFWs and their families. The event featured informational sharing, quiz games, a singing bee challenge, food distribution, and distribution of Information Education Campaign materials to empower and support OFW families. The collaboration with the LGU Natividad and Migrant Desk Officer was instrumental in the success of the event, enhancing support for OFWs in the community.
Conclusion
The “Parokya ng OWWA” program is a comprehensive program designed to support OFWs and their families.
By bringing government services directly to local communities, OWWA aims to empower OFWs, protect their rights for their successful reintegration into Philippine society.
By following the steps outlined above, OFWs and their families can effectively access and utilize the services and support offered by the program, enhancing their overall well-being and achieving their goals.