A renewed push to widen services for overseas Filipino workers took center stage as the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) highlighted new programs and digital initiatives during its 44th anniversary celebration on May 2 in Pasay.
Officials outlined efforts to improve access to benefits, including online membership renewal, a 24/7 operations center, and dedicated portals for repatriation and reintegration services. These are part of a broader campaign dubbed “Road to 50,” which aims to strengthen welfare, health, and support systems for Filipino workers abroad ahead of the agency’s 50th year.
The event, held at the Philippine Trade Training Center, gathered government leaders and stakeholders, including Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac and OWWA Administrator PY Caunan, along with lawmakers and agency officials.
In her address, Caunan underscored the human side of migration, pointing to the sacrifices made by workers separated from their families and those who have relied on government support during emergencies. She said these experiences shape the agency’s commitment to respond when assistance is needed.
“Hindi perpekto. Hindi madali. Pero hindi tayo nawawala,” she said, describing OWWA’s continued presence in both crises and everyday situations faced by overseas Filipinos.
The agency reported key figures reflecting its current reach, including over 2.6 million active members worldwide and a trust fund amounting to ₱21.4 billion. Millions of users have also accessed its digital platforms, while services have extended to airport lounges, welfare centers for seafarers, and global hubs in cities such as Hong Kong, Taipei, and Kuala Lumpur.
Education and livelihood support were also emphasized, with 10,000 additional scholarship slots allotted for dependents of overseas workers. A partnership with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) under the ETEEAP program is also being expanded to allow workers abroad to complete college degrees.
To support returning workers, OWWA is enhancing reintegration efforts through updated tracking systems and assistance programs. A new agreement with the Small Business Corporation is set to provide financing options for beneficiaries of livelihood initiatives, including those under Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay and Tulong PUSO.
