Five women from Catanduanes who recently returned home from the Middle East and Taiwan have been granted livelihood support by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), as they decided not to pursue overseas work again.
Each of the former overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) received PHP 20,000 through OWWA’s Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay program, which aims to help repatriated workers start or grow small businesses. Four of the beneficiaries were victims of abuse abroad, while the fifth was a deceased OFW whose family accepted the assistance on her behalf.
“The government has such a program to assist people like them, who lost their jobs abroad, so they can continue providing for their families,” said Keen Tajaal, OWWA’s family welfare officer in Catanduanes in a PIA report.
According to Provincial Employment Service Officer Gerry Rubio, the five approached him for help and were referred to OWWA.
“So, we have come to their aid,” Tajaal added.
All four women survivors requested anonymity, but officials confirmed that they were determined to rebuild their lives back home.
