When a Filipino chooses to work abroad, they carry not just their skills but also their hopes for a better life for their family. To support them, the government established the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and in 2016, its mandate was strengthened through Republic Act No. 10801, also known as the OWWA Charter.
This law sets the foundation for OWWA as the main government agency tasked with protecting and promoting the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families.
Why RA 10801 Matters
RA 10801 empowers OWWA to be more than just a support agency—it positions it as a guardian for OFWs and their families.
Through the law, members gain peace of mind knowing that their contributions are secured, their welfare is prioritized, and their voices can be heard through proper complaint channels.
OWWA_CC_021225-updatedKey Features of RA 10801
- Membership Benefits
- Mandatory Membership – All OFWs with valid employment contracts processed through the Department of Migrant Workers are automatically covered.
- Two-Year Validity – Active membership lasts two years upon contribution.
- Wide Range of Services – Programs include social assistance, scholarships, reintegration, financial support, and cultural activities.
- Special Programs – Training for seafarers, repatriation, and reintegration services.
- Proof of Membership – Members get an official OWWA E-Card or ID.
- Emergency Assistance for Inactive Members – Some help is still possible on a case-by-case basis.
- Fund Sources and Management
- The OWWA Fund is a trust fund used only for OFW welfare.
- It comes from membership contributions, investment earnings, and donations.
- Managed by the Board of Trustees under strict investment rules.
- Exempt from taxes and cannot be combined with other government funds.
- Contributions may be adjusted to keep the fund healthy and sustainable.
- Complaint Desks and Mechanisms
- Regional Welfare Offices in the Philippines and OWWA desks abroad accept complaints.
- Filing involves submitting a form and documents, with mediation offered when needed.
- Non-OWWA cases are referred to agencies like NLRC or DMW/POEA.
- Clear procedures exist for complaints against recruiters, with appeals allowed.
- Transparency and Accountability
- Annual reports are submitted to Congress, the President, and published online.
- The Commission on Audit (COA) reviews finances quarterly.
- Practices of open disclosure and good governance are followed.
- Any fund issues are addressed through audits and corrections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who is required to become an OWWA member?
All OFWs with valid employment contracts processed by the Department of Migrant Workers are required to register and contribute.
Q2: How much is the OWWA membership fee?
As of now, the contribution is USD 25 or its peso equivalent, valid for two years, regardless of the contract length.
Q3: Can inactive OWWA members still receive help?
Yes, some services like repatriation and certain emergency programs are available even to inactive members.
Q4: How can I file a complaint against an agency abroad?
You can go to the nearest OWWA desk or Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in your host country, or approach the Regional Welfare Office in the Philippines.
Q5: How can I check my OWWA membership status?
You can verify through the OWWA Mobile App, the official website, or by visiting an OWWA office.
What Filipinos Think About the OWWA Charter
Many OFWs and their families see the OWWA Charter as a lifeline.
It gives them confidence that their contributions are being managed responsibly and that they have somewhere to turn to during emergencies.
Some Filipinos appreciate the repatriation services and education scholarships funded by OWWA, especially when families struggle while their loved ones work abroad.
However, there are also mixed views.
Some OFWs say that processing times and access to benefits can be slow, while others feel that information about services is not always clear.
Despite this, most agree that RA 10801 is a step forward in protecting OFWs, recognizing their sacrifices, and creating a safety net for their families.
Watch: DMW Sec. Cacdac reminds OFWs to follow rules of host countries | ANC
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac reminded OFWs to respect the laws of their host countries during the 2025 Post-SONA forum on workers’ welfare.
He stressed that following local rules reflects the dignity of Filipinos abroad and helps prevent legal trouble.
The government continues to monitor OFW conditions and offers support when needed, especially in cases of detention or disputes.
Cacdac’s message came with a clear warning: foreign governments are watching, and one misstep could affect a worker’s status.
This reminder speaks to every OFW—stay informed, stay careful, and carry the Filipino name with pride.
Final Thoughts
The OWWA Charter is not just a law—it is a promise.
A promise that wherever Filipinos may be in the world, their sacrifices are recognized, and their well-being is safeguarded.
If you’re an OFW or have a loved one working abroad, being an OWWA member means having a safety net and a partner in building a more secure future.