Repatriated OFWs can now study caregiving and paramedics for free under new DMW program

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), in partnership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and Dr. R.A. Fernando Training Center, has officially launched the Pilot Kaalaman Scholarship, an educational program designed to upskill and empower repatriated or returned Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) through free healthcare training courses.

A program to transform lives

The Pilot Kaalaman Scholarship aims to provide free education and technical training for OFWs who wish to expand their professional qualifications, particularly in the healthcare sector. According to the DMW, this initiative helps develop new skills that can enhance employability and improve the quality of life for OFWs and their families.

It is described as an “initial program providing free education and training to upskill and develop overseas Filipino workers”, empowering participants to reach their full potential through learning opportunities that can open local or global career doors.

Who can apply

The program is open to the following:

Household Service Workers

Repatriated or returned OFWs seeking local employment opportunities

OFWs currently staying in the Philippines

OFWs who wish to upskill in the healthcare field

Applicants must register online through the QR code provided by the DMW. Slots will be filled on a first-registered, first-served basis. The training venue will be in Pasay City.

Courses offered

The scholarship offers specialized programs to build medical and caregiving competencies, including:

Paramedics for Medical Practitioners – For graduates of Nursing, Physical Therapy, or other medical courses who wish to be certified in emergency response and patient assessment.

Emergency Medical Services NC II – Focused on developing skills in basic life support and pre-hospital emergency care.

Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC) – For individuals aiming to become certified ambulance drivers or emergency vehicle operators.

Caregiving (Elderly) NC II – Designed to train participants in providing quality care and support for senior citizens.

Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC II – For OFWs interested in learning traditional Filipino healing and holistic wellness.

Telediagnostic Services – Focused on equipping participants with digital diagnostic skills relevant to modern healthcare practices.

Program schedule

The training programs will begin on October 27 and November 3, 2025, with end dates ranging from November 14, 2025, to January 6, 2026, depending on the course.
Each course will have two batches of 25 trainees.

CourseStart DateEnd DateNo. of Batches
Paramedics for Medical PractitionersOct 27 / Nov 3Dec 5 / Dec 122 batches of 25
Emergency Medical Services NC IIOct 27 / Nov 3Dec 6 / Dec 132 batches of 25
Emergency Vehicle Operator Course (EVOC)Oct 27 / Nov 3Dec 14 / Dec 212 batches of 25
Caregiving (Elderly) NC IIOct 27 / Nov 3Dec 27 / Jan 62 batches of 25
Hilot (Wellness Massage) NC IIOct 27 / Nov 3Nov 14 / Nov 212 batches of 25
Telediagnostic ServicesOct 27 / Nov 3Nov 18 / Nov 252 batches of 25

How to register

Interested OFWs may scan the QR code featured in the official DMW announcement to access the registration form and detailed program guidelines.
Inquiries can also be directed to the following:

Website: https://dmw.gov.ph

Facebook: facebook.com/dmw.gov.ph

Email: feedback@dmw.gov.ph