Lawmakers have moved closer to creating a unified national system for returning migrant workers as the Bagong Balikbayan Act, also known as the OFW Reintegration Law, cleared its second reading in the House of Representatives.
During the deliberations, Agimat party-list Rep. Bryan Revilla underscored how the measure aims to resolve long-standing gaps in government programs for returning workers. He described the proposal as “a long overdue promise to the men and women who sacrifice years of their lives abroad.” Revilla, who took charge of defending the bill, highlighted that the initiative directly tackles concerns over fragmented and inconsistent reintegration efforts among multiple agencies.
The voice vote in favor of the bill reflected broad support across the chamber, with the House Committee on Overseas Workers—chaired by Revilla—framing the development as a significant step toward final approval. Revilla said the chamber’s momentum signals a major legislative milestone as the measure heads to its next and final stage.
