Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and seafarers are often hailed as modern-day heroes, and rightly so. Their remittances do not only support their families but also make a huge impact to the Philippine economy. To recognize their sacrifices, the government, through various agencies, has established a wide array of programs designed to provide financial assistance, welfare support, and other benefits to OFWs and their families.
Whether you’re planning to settle back in the Philippines, seeking educational support, or needing immediate financial aid, there is a program tailored to meet your needs.
Significance
Filipino seafarers are the backbone of the global maritime industry, making up a large portion of the world’s maritime workforce.
Their contributions not only support their families but also aid the Philippine economy.
Recognizing their immense value, the Philippine government and various organizations have established numerous assistance programs to ensure the safety, well-being, and professional growth of these modern-day heroes.
1. Prioritizing Safety and Security at Sea
Protection from Piracy and Attacks:
Seafaring is a profession fraught with risks, including the dangers of piracy and maritime attacks.
To safeguard the lives of Filipino seafarers, the government has implemented programs that provide rapid response and rescue operations during such emergencies.
The rescue of Filipino seafarers from the MV Alpine is a prime example of how international cooperation and swift action can protect lives.
These safety nets enable our seafarers to perform their duties without fearing for their safety.
Addressing Mental Health Challenges:
The psychological impact of working at sea, especially after experiencing traumatic events such as piracy or violent incidents, is a pressing concern.
Assistance programs have been designed to provide mental health support, including counseling and medical care, to help seafarers cope with these challenges.
Ensuring the mental well-being of seafarers is just as important as their physical safety, as it allows them to continue their work with a clear mind and a strong spirit.
Repatriation and Reintegration:
In cases where seafarers are caught in crises abroad—whether due to conflict, natural disasters, or personal emergencies—assistance programs ensure their safe return to the Philippines.
These programs handle all aspects of repatriation, including travel arrangements, documentation, and financial aid.
Upon their return, seafarers are provided with the necessary support to reintegrate into society, helping them transition smoothly back into their lives at home.
2. Enhancing Skills and Career Advancement
Upgrading Programs:
To remain competitive in the global maritime industry, continuous skill development is essential for seafarers.
Programs like the Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP), offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), provide financial assistance for seafarers to enroll in accredited maritime courses.
These programs help seafarers enhance their skills, qualify for higher positions, and stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.
Training and Certification:
The Philippine government’s commitment to maintaining high standards in training and certification ensures that Filipino seafarers are recognized worldwide for their professionalism and competence.
These programs not only meet international standards but also improve the employability of Filipino seafarers, making them highly sought after by global shipping companies.
Through rigorous training and certification, seafarers are better equipped to handle the demands of their roles and advance their careers.
3. Protecting the Rights and Welfare of Seafarers
International Collaboration:
The protection of seafarers’ rights is a priority for the Philippine government, which collaborates with organizations like Seafarers Rights International (SRI) to advocate for fair treatment.
These collaborative efforts focus on enforcing international labor conventions that address working conditions, wages, and safety at sea.
Ensuring that Filipino seafarers are treated fairly and with respect is fundamental to their well-being and professional satisfaction.
Legal Assistance:
Disputes with employers or recruitment agencies are not uncommon in the maritime industry, and navigating these conflicts can be challenging for seafarers.
Assistance programs offer legal aid to ensure that seafarers have access to justice and can assert their rights effectively.
With legal support, seafarers are better protected against exploitation and can resolve disputes with confidence.
4. Supporting the Philippine Economy Through Seafaring
Economic Contribution:
Filipino seafarers contribute immensely to the Philippine economy through their remittances, which support their families and fuel local economies.
These remittances are an important source of income for the country, and assistance programs that support the employment and well-being of seafarers help sustain this economic contribution.
By making sure that seafarers remain employed and healthy, these programs play a key role in maintaining the flow of remittances that benefit millions of Filipinos.
Maintaining Maritime Industry Strength:
The strength and competitiveness of the Philippine maritime industry are closely linked to the quality and welfare of its seafarers.
Through continuous training, certification, and welfare support, the government ascertains that the industry remains a global leader.
This not only benefits the national economy but also reinforces the Philippines’ position in the international maritime community.
5. Fostering Maritime Solidarity and Global Cooperation
International Cooperation:
The global nature of the maritime industry requires a collective effort to look after the well-being of seafarers.
The collaboration between governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international bodies highlights a shared commitment to maritime solidarity.
These cooperative efforts help protect seafarers’ rights, improve working conditions, and promote safety at sea, fostering a sense of unity within the global maritime community.
Recognizing Seafarers’ Contributions:
The primary role that seafarers play in global trade and transportation cannot be overstated.
Assistance programs not only provide the necessary support but also recognize and celebrate the contributions of Filipino seafarers.
By acknowledging their sacrifices and the importance of their work, these programs emphasize the need to prioritize their well-being and success.
Key Agencies and Organizations
The maritime industry in the Philippines is bolstered by a network of government agencies and organizations dedicated to the welfare and development of Filipino seafarers.
These entities collaborate to oversee the safety, fair treatment, and overall well-being of seafarers, contributing to the strength of the maritime sector.
Government Agencies:
- Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA): MARINA regulates the Philippine maritime industry by setting standards for maritime education and training, issuing licenses, and enforcing safety regulations.
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA): OWWA provides a wide range of services, including insurance, educational assistance, and repatriation support, as well as training programs like the Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP).
- Department of Migrant Workers (DMW): Established in 2021, DMW consolidates all OFW-related services, including legal assistance, counseling, and resettlement for seafarers.
Non-Government Organizations (NGOs):
- Mission to Seafarers: An international organization offering pastoral care, welfare services, and support to seafarers, with a strong presence in the Philippines.
- Stella Maris: A Catholic charity that provides accommodation, communication facilities, and spiritual guidance to seafarers and their families.
- Seafarers Rights International (SRI): A global advocate for seafarers’ rights, working to promote fair treatment and the implementation of international labor standards.
- International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN): ISWAN offers a range of support programs, including financial aid, legal assistance, and mental health services.
Other Organizations:
- Filipino Association for Mariner’s Employment (FAME): A non-profit organization that promotes the welfare of Filipino seafarers through training, job placement, and legal assistance.
- Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific (MAAP): A leading maritime education and training institution producing highly skilled seafarers.
- International Registries, Inc. (IRI): A ship classification society overseeing the safety and compliance of vessels through services like ship registration and technical surveys.
These agencies and organizations form a comprehensive support system for Filipino seafarers, addressing their diverse needs and helping them succeed in the global maritime industry.
Financial Assistance Programs for OFWs and Seafarers
Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program
For OFWs who have been displaced or distressed, the Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay! Program provides a livelihood grant of Php20,000.00.
This cash assistance is aimed at helping returning OFWs start a small business or livelihood project, offering immediate financial relief as they transition back to life in the Philippines.
Tulong PUSO (Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-unlad ng Samahang OFWs)
Tulong PUSO is a livelihood assistance program specifically for OFW groups registered with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), or the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
This program offers a one-time financial grant ranging from Php150,000.00 to Php1,000,000.00, depending on the size of the group, to support the establishment or development of a business.
OFW Enterprise Development and Loan Program (OFW-EDLP)
The OFW Enterprise Development and Loan Program, formerly known as the OFW Reintegration Program, is designed for OFWs who are serious about starting or expanding a business.
This program provides access to loans in partnership with Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP).
It’s important to note that this is a loan program, meaning that the funds must be repaid within a term of one to seven years.
Educational and Scholarship Programs for OFW Dependents
Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)
The Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) offers Php60,000.00 per school year to qualified dependents of OFWs who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
The selection process is highly competitive, requiring applicants to pass the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) examination.
A total of 1,000 scholarships are awarded each year, with 600 slots for incoming freshmen and 400 for those already enrolled in college.
OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP)
For OFW families earning less than USD600.00 per month, the OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (ODSP) provides financial assistance of Php20,000.00 per school year.
This scholarship supports dependents enrolled in four- or five-year baccalaureate courses in any accredited college or university.
Education and Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP) for Deceased OFWs
ELAP is a special program designed to support the dependents of deceased OFWs.
It offers a livelihood assistance of Php15,000.00 and an educational grant of up to Php10,000.00 per year to help the beneficiaries continue their studies despite the loss of their breadwinner.
Training and Skill Development Programs
Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP)
The Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP) provides financial assistance of up to Php7,500.00 for seafarers to undergo training courses that will enhance their skills and qualifications.
These courses are accredited by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) or the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), so that Filipino seafarers remain competitive in the global maritime industry.
Short-Term Training Programs for OFWs and Dependents
OWWA also offers short-term training programs through the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP).
This program covers technical and vocational courses that last between six months and two years, with OWWA covering up to Php14,500.00 per training course.
Additionally, an Information Technology (IT) Training Program is available to enhance the digital literacy of OFWs and their dependents.
Welfare and Emergency Assistance Programs
Repatriation Assistance Program
The Repatriation Assistance Program, also known as Emergency Repatriation, is designed to expedite the return of OFWs who are in distress due to situations such as civil unrest, war, or natural disasters in their host country.
This program covers the costs associated with bringing back the OFW, including the repatriation of human remains when necessary.
Disability and Dismemberment Benefits
OWWA provides financial assistance of Php100,000.00 to OFWs who suffer from disability or dismemberment while working abroad.
This benefit is essential for helping OFWs and their families cope with the financial impact of such unfortunate events.
Death and Burial Benefits
In the unfortunate event of an OFW’s death, OWWA offers two types of benefits:
- Death Benefit: The family of the deceased will receive Php100,000.00 if the death was due to natural causes, or Php200,000.00 if it was due to an accident.
- Burial Gratuity: OWWA provides an additional Php20,000.00 to cover the burial expenses, ensuring that the family can provide a decent funeral for their loved one.
Supplementary Medical Assistance (MEDplus)
MEDplus is a program that offers additional financial assistance to OWWA members who are also PhilHealth members.
If an OFW is diagnosed with a serious illness requiring hospitalization, MEDplus can provide up to Php50,000.00 in medical aid to help cover the costs.
Additional Assistance Programs
Welfare Assistance Program (WAP)
For OFWs who do not qualify for other benefits, the Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) offers various forms of aid, including calamity assistance, bereavement assistance, disability assistance, medical assistance, and relief assistance.
This program is available to both active and inactive OWWA members.
Recent Updates
Repatriation of Filipino Crewmen from Houthi-Attacked Vessel
Sixteen Filipino crew members of the Greek-owned oil tanker MT Sounion have safely returned to the Philippines after the vessel was attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac warmly received the repatriated seafarers, with the remaining seven crew members scheduled for repatriation in collaboration with relevant agencies.
Immediate financial aid of P75,000 from the DMW Aksyon Fund, along with additional assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development and OWWA, was provided to each returning crew member. They will undergo pivotal medical evaluations and receive psycho-social support to address any trauma experienced during the attack. (Sun Star)
Video: Mga Karapatan at Benepisyo sa Pagkakasakit ng Seafarer
A seafarer who falls ill while on duty is entitled to medical care and support. They have the right to receive prompt and adequate medical treatment, regardless of the nature of their illness. The employer is responsible for covering the cost of medical expenses, including hospitalization, medication, and treatment. Seafarers are also entitled to sick leave and compensation for lost wages during their recovery period. These rights and benefits are designed to protect the health and well-being of seafarers and ensure their safe return to work.
Conclusion
The Philippine government, through OWWA and other agencies, has established a comprehensive network of programs to support OFWs and seafarers in various aspects of their lives.
Whether you need financial assistance, educational support for your dependents, or aid in times of emergency, there is a program designed to help.
By staying informed and taking advantage of these benefits, you can ensure that you and your family are well-supported throughout your journey as an OFW or seafarer.
It’s important to regularly check with OWWA and other relevant agencies to keep updated on available programs and to understand the eligibility requirements for each.
Your hard work and sacrifices are recognized, and these programs are here to help you achieve a better future for yourself and your loved ones.