The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will be among the 10 participating government agencies at the upcoming Bagong Bayani ng Mundo: OFW Serbisyo Caravan on August 3, 2025, at Exhibition Hall 8, Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC), bringing essential support services to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families in the UAE.
The event, led by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Dubai, is a one-day government outreach activity that consolidates vital services in a single venue for the benefit of Filipino workers abroad.
DSWD services available onsite:
- Information Desk for OFWs
The DSWD team will provide an overview of its programs specifically designed for OFWs and their families, including welfare support, family assistance, and reintegration efforts.
- Psychosocial Counselling
DSWD’s social workers will be available for free counselling services for those in distress, in crisis situations, or experiencing emotional and mental health challenges abroad.
- Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS)
Though not directly processed onsite, DSWD will provide guidance and information on how to avail of AICS benefits such as financial aid for medical, funeral, educational, food, and transportation needs.
- Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP)
DSWD will share details about the SLP, a flagship capacity-building initiative that supports vulnerable families with livelihood tools and training. This includes:
– Seed Capital Fund (SCF)
– Skills Training Fund (MD-STF)
– Employment Assistance Fund (EAF)
– Cash for Building Livelihood Assets Fund (CBLAF)
- Solo Parent Welfare
DSWD will entertain inquiries about the Expanded Solo Parents’ Welfare Act (RA 11861), which extends government support to solo parents, including additional benefits and increased age coverage for child dependents.
- Travel Clearance for Minors Traveling Abroad
For OFWs planning to bring minor children overseas, DSWD will provide guidance on securing travel clearances under the Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System (HELPS).
- Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons
The agency will also be promoting awareness of its support program for victims of human trafficking, which offers psychosocial, social, and economic interventions.
OFWs attending the caravan are encouraged to visit the DSWD booth, especially those with questions related to family welfare, solo parenting, minor travel documentation, or who are in need of emotional and mental health support.
The OFW Serbisyo Caravan will also feature services from PhilHealth, PSA, PAO, DTI-PTIC Dubai, Pag-IBIG Fund, SSS, OWWA, PCG Dubai, and MWO Dubai. A pre-caravan service for PhilHealth is ongoing from July 28 to 30 at the MWO Dubai Office, requiring pre-registration.
