The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is conducting an assessment to determine the extent to which families of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have been affected by the recent massive floods in Metro Manila and nearby areas.
OWWA chief Arnell Ignacio stated that the agency has already distributed food packs and medical assistance to calamity-hit regions. The agency is working closely with local government units (LGUs) to evaluate the specific needs of affected OFWs and their families.
“This is clearly a complementary service to the aid provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and LGUs. We are coordinating to identify the recipients of the assistance,” Ignacio said in a PNA report during the agency’s acceptance of its ISO 9001:2015 recertification at the Grand Westside Hotel in Parañaque City.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that over 4 million individuals have been affected by the flooding, with 39 fatalities, 15 of whom were from the National Capital Region.
Ignacio praised OWWA personnel for their dedication to maintaining high-quality service for the welfare of OFWs. He also emphasized OWWA’s ongoing collaboration with other government agencies to enhance the lives of Filipino workers abroad.
Ignacio announced several projects for 2025, including the establishment of more lounges and hubs for OFWs at various transit points in the country, modeled after the OFW Lounges at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 and the Seafarers’ Hub in Manila. Additionally, OWWA plans to set up ‘Member Ako’ Lounge Hubs at international posts to better serve OFWs overseas.
The ISO 9001:2015 Certification is an international standard for Quality Management Systems, ensuring organizations deliver the highest level of service quality to the public.