The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has reaffirmed its commitment to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning home, assuring them of comprehensive support from the moment they arrive in the country until they are reintegrated into their communities.
“As an agency that looks after the welfare of the poor and vulnerable sectors, including OFWs returning to the Philippines, the DSWD provides various services based on their condition or needs,” DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said in Filipino.
Repatriated OFWs are met at the airport by DSWD social workers working closely with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and other agencies. Each returnee undergoes an assessment to determine immediate needs—ranging from financial and transportation assistance to medical aid.
Beyond emergency relief, the DSWD also provides long-term reintegration support. Through its Sustainable Livelihood Program, OFWs and their families may receive help in starting small businesses or finding employment opportunities. “We are not only offering financial help. We make sure that every Filipino coming home gets sufficient support to start anew in our country,” Dumlao stressed.
The department also coordinates with local government units and regional offices for case management, ensuring continuous monitoring and access to localized support. For those who endured traumatic experiences abroad, psychosocial care is available under the Wireless Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (WiSupport) program, which is being expanded to reach more OFWs worldwide.
“These programs are designed not just to provide emergency relief, but to help our repatriated OFWs rebuild their lives and become productive members of their communities,” Dumlao said.
