Senator Loren Legarda has called on the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to establish a clear and measurable plan for the reintegration of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) returning home after years of working abroad.
Citing the agency’s briefer, Legarda said the reintegration efforts currently include initiatives under the “Kabuhayan, Kaalaman, Kalinga, at Kaagapay” programs, which aim to provide livelihood assistance, financial literacy training, and other forms of support. The “Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay” project is also among those listed.
However, the senator stressed that while the programs are well-documented, their real-world effectiveness remains unclear. She pointed out that there is still no comprehensive assessment showing how these initiatives have improved the lives of OFWs who have returned to the country.
Legarda emphasized the need for a proper monitoring system to determine whether these programs are truly benefiting their intended recipients. She urged the DMW to ensure that all reintegration projects yield concrete results and make a tangible difference in the lives of returning Filipino workers.
