The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is committed to fulfilling its mandate of promoting and protecting the rights and welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. OWWA Cash Assistance for OFWs & Dependents | Apply NowOver the years, this agency has provided significant assistance to countless OFWs, particularly during challenging times, serving as a form of insurance for OWWA members. Let’s delve into how OWWA aids its members and explore the different cash assistance programs available to OFWs and seafarers.
Inaugurated in 1977, OWWA has consistently extended a helping hand to OFWs and their families. Initially known as the Welfare and Training Fund for Overseas Workers, OWWA currently operates 31 offices in 27 countries worldwide. The agency offers support throughout various stages of an OFW’s journey, including pre-departure preparations, overseas deployment, and eventual reintegration. For a membership fee of US$25, valid for two years, individuals can enroll in OWWA’s membership program, which grants access to a range of cash assistance programs for both members and their dependents.
(Note: Please note that the specific cash aid programs and their details may vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to refer to OWWA’s official website or contact their offices directly.)
Cash Aid Programs of OWWA for OFWs and Seafarers
However, based on the information you provided, it seems that the “Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay!” and “Balik Pinay! Balik Hanapbuhay!” programs are livelihood assistance programs offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to help returning OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) start their own businesses.
The “Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay!” program provides cash assistance of up to P20,000 to displaced or distressed returning OFWs. This cash aid can be used to fund start-ups or as additional capital for livelihood projects, with the aim of helping OFWs establish small businesses.
The “Balik Pinay! Balik Hanapbuhay!” program, on the other hand, specifically targets women OFWs who are displaced or distressed. It provides cash assistance of up to P10,000, along with starter kits and livelihood training. The program aims to assist women OFWs in starting their own businesses and provides support to develop their skills essential for entrepreneurship.
Please note that the availability and specific details of these programs may have changed since my last update. It is advisable to contact the OWWA or refer to their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the cash aid programs available to OFWs.
Calamity Assistance
The statement you provided seems to be discussing the assistance provided by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to its members and their families in the event of natural calamities such as typhoons, flooding, or earthquakes. OWWA is an agency in the Philippines that provides various forms of support to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their dependents.
According to the statement, OWWA extends financial assistance called “OWWA Calamity Assistance” to qualified beneficiaries and their families. In case of natural disasters, they are eligible to receive a one-time financial grant amounting to P3,000. This assistance aims to help OFWs and their immediate families cope with the financial impact of the calamity and provide them with some form of relief during difficult times.
It’s important to note that the information provided in your statement might be subject to change, as my knowledge is based on data available up until September 2021. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on OWWA programs and assistance, I recommend reaching out to OWWA directly or visiting their official website.
Death and Burial Benefits
The membership program offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) serves as insurance for its members. As a result, active OWWA members are entitled to Death and Burial Benefits. OWWA provides financial assistance of P100,000 to eligible beneficiaries of OWWA members who pass away due to natural causes. Moreover, if an OWWA member dies in an accident, their family will receive P200,000 in cash assistance.
Additionally, the families of deceased OWWA members will receive an additional P20,000 to cover burial expenses. This cash aid from OWWA helps the surviving family with recovery and supplements their income. It is also applicable for OWWA members who have died due to Covid-19.
Disability Benefits
Most overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) serve as the primary earners for their families, and in the unfortunate event that they experience disabilities, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers assistance to its members. OWWA provides Disability Benefits to eligible OFW members, which includes financial aid. In the case of total permanent disability, the OFW member will receive a cash aid amounting to P100,000. If the disability is partial, the member will receive a cash aid worth P50,000 from OWWA.
DOLE-AKAP Cash Assistance
The DOLE-AKAP program, launched by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), aims to provide assistance to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. It specifically targets OFWs who have not received their salaries or have lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic.
Under the program, qualified beneficiaries are eligible to receive a one-time financial grant amounting to US$200 or P10,000 each. This assistance is available to various categories of OFWs, including repatriated workers, those who are unable to return for overseas employment, and OFWs who have tested positive for Covid-19 but did not receive assistance from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
Additionally, the program extends to OFWs who have not received any financial aid from their employer or the government of their host country. It serves as a means to support OFWs who may be facing financial difficulties and help alleviate the impact of the pandemic on their livelihoods.
The DOLE-AKAP program represents a proactive measure by the Philippine government to provide assistance and support to affected OFWs, recognizing their contributions to the country’s economy and their need for assistance during these challenging times.
Education and Livelihood Assistance Program
The Education and Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP) offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) aims to provide support to the spouses and children of deceased Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). ELAP offers educational assistance for qualified dependent children of the deceased OFW, as well as livelihood assistance for the surviving spouse.
Under ELAP, eligible child dependents of the deceased OFW can receive educational assistance based on their educational level. Elementary school students can receive an amount of P5,000, high school students can receive P8,000, and college students can receive P10,000. This financial aid is intended to help cover educational expenses and support the children’s pursuit of education.
In addition to the educational assistance, the surviving spouse of the deceased OFW is entitled to livelihood assistance. The amount provided for livelihood assistance is P15,000. This assistance aims to support the surviving spouse in establishing or maintaining a livelihood, helping them generate income and improve their economic situation.
The Education and Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP) is designed to alleviate the financial burden faced by the families of deceased OFWs and empower them to pursue education and livelihood opportunities.
Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP)
The Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) is an OWWA scholarship project designed specifically for qualified dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree. The program offers educational assistance to eligible beneficiaries throughout their undergraduate studies.
The EDSP is available to two categories of students: incoming 1st-year college students who are not over 21 years old at the time of application, and students already enrolled in 2nd to 5th-year college who are not over 30 years old. This means that both new students and those who are already pursuing their degree can apply for the scholarship.
Under the EDSP, qualified beneficiaries can receive educational assistance amounting to a maximum of P60,000 per school year. This financial aid is provided annually until the students complete their 4 to 5-year baccalaureate course at any recognized university or college in the Philippines.
The EDSP aims to support OFW dependents in their pursuit of higher education, helping them overcome financial barriers and achieve their academic goals. By availing this scholarship, qualified students can receive financial assistance to cover their educational expenses, such as tuition fees, books, and other related costs.
It’s important for eligible individuals to apply for the EDSP and take advantage of this opportunity to obtain financial support for their college education.
Mariner’s Dugtong Aral (MDA) Program
The Mariner’s Dugtong Aral (MDA) is a scholarship program offered by OWWA, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. The program’s name is derived from the Tagalog word “Dugtong,” which means “bridging.” The MDA scholarship aims to bridge the educational gap for seafarers and their eligible dependents who have already completed a degree in BS Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or BS Electrical Engineering (BSEE) and wish to pursue a degree in BS Marine Engineering (BSMarE).
The MDA scholarship is open to active OWWA member seafarers and immediate dependents of active or former OWWA members, whether they are land-based or sea-based workers. Additionally, the scholarship is available to the next of kin to the first degree of consanguinity of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
In summary, the Mariner’s Dugtong Aral (MDA) scholarship program aims to provide financial assistance to seafarers and their eligible dependents who have completed a degree in either BS Mechanical Engineering or BS Electrical Engineering and wish to pursue a degree in BS Marine Engineering. It is open to active OWWA member seafarers, immediate dependents of active or former OWWA members, and OFWs’ next of kin to the first degree of consanguinity.
MEDPLUS Program
The MEDPLUS Program, also known as the Supplemental Medical Assistance for OFWs, is a initiative developed by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Its primary objective is to offer supplementary medical aid to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are experiencing serious illnesses. This program is available to OFWs who have active OWWA membership and have made contributions to the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), regardless of whether they are in the Philippines or abroad.
The medical assistance provided through the MEDPLUS Program follows a rate system similar to the PhilHealth benefits. However, the maximum amount of medical assistance that each member can receive is limited to P50,000. This financial support is intended to help OFWs cover a portion of their medical expenses and alleviate the financial burden associated with their healthcare needs.
OFW Dependents Scholarship Program (ODSP)
The OFW Dependents Scholarship Program (ODSP) is a specialized educational assistance program provided by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for the dependents of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who earn a monthly salary of up to US$600. The ODSP aims to support the beneficiaries in pursuing their associate’s or bachelor’s degrees at any state college or university in the Philippines by granting them financial aid of P20,000 per school year.
The ODSP is applicable to two categories of dependents: children of married OFWs and siblings of single OFWs. To be eligible for the program, applicants must meet the age requirements, which are not exceeding 21 years old for incoming first-year college students and not exceeding 30 years old for those who are already enrolled or continuing their college studies. The program seeks to assist these individuals in completing their higher education and provides them with the necessary financial support to achieve their academic goals.
Project EASE Scholarship
The Education Assistance thru Scholarship Emergencies (Project EASE) is an educational assistance program provided by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). It aims to support eligible college-level dependents of displaced or distressed Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as well as those who lost their jobs due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Under Project EASE, qualified beneficiaries are entitled to receive education aid amounting to P10,000 per school year for a maximum duration of 4 years. This financial assistance is specifically designed to help OFW dependents pursue their college education despite the challenges faced by their families.
To be eligible for this program, the OFW must have an active OWWA membership status at the time of repatriation to the Philippines due to the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak, which started in February 2020. By providing this educational support, Project EASE aims to alleviate the financial burden and provide opportunities for higher education to OFW dependents affected by the pandemic.
Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP)
Apart from the Mariner’s Dugtong Aral (MDA) Program, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) also offers the Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP), a scholarship program designed for Filipino seafarers. The aim of this program is to support Filipino seafarers in enhancing and expanding their knowledge to stay competitive and comply with the standards set by the International Maritime Organization.
The SUP provides short-term training programs that are relevant to maritime jobs. The cost of these courses ranges from a minimum of P1,200 up to a maximum of P7,500 per course. In addition, transportation and meal allowances are included for applicants who are enrolled in the program and are referred to the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP).
Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP)
The Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP) is a specialized educational training assistance program initiated by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to support Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their eligible dependents. Its primary objective is to enhance their technical and vocational skills, enabling them to secure gainful employment opportunities.
SESP offers a scholarship grant of up to P14,500 per training course, which can be utilized at any Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) accredited school. The program aims to cover the expenses associated with the chosen training course, including tuition fees, training materials, and other related costs.
By participating in SESP, OFWs and their dependents can avail themselves of specialized training in various fields, such as automotive technology, culinary arts, computer programming, healthcare services, construction trades, and many more. These courses are designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge required by industries both in the Philippines and abroad.
The implementation of SESP seeks to address the demand for skilled workers and provide OFWs and their dependents with the opportunity to enhance their employability. Through this program, participants can acquire valuable skills that can lead to better job prospects and income potential. Ultimately, the goal is to promote sustainable livelihoods and contribute to the economic growth and development of individuals and their families.
It’s important to note that the above information is accurate as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021. For the most up-to-date details on the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP), I recommend consulting the official OWWA website or contacting the organization directly.
Tabang OFW Scholarship
The Tabang OFW Scholarship is an educational assistance program provided by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for the dependents of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are studying at the college level. This program is a collaborative effort between OWWA, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), in line with the Unified Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education Act (UNIFAST) implemented by the government.
The Tabang OFW Scholarship aims to support the college-level dependents of OFWs who have been adversely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. This includes dependents whose OFW parents or guardians have lost their jobs, been repatriated, or passed away due to the pandemic. The scholarship provides a one-time grant amounting to P30,000, which can be used to cover various educational expenses.
Through this program, the government aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by the families of OFWs and ensure that their dependents can continue their college education despite the challenges brought about by the pandemic. The collaboration between OWWA, DOLE, and CHED allows for the efficient implementation of the scholarship and ensures that deserving students receive the necessary support to pursue their studies.
The Tabang OFW Scholarship serves as a valuable opportunity for college-level dependents of OFWs to access financial assistance and continue their education, enabling them to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to secure a better future for themselves and their families.
Tulong PUSO Program
The Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-unlad ng Samahang OFWs (PUSO) Program is a livelihood project initiated by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Its primary objective is to provide support for the expansion, improvement, or restoration of livelihood projects undertaken by organizations comprised of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Under the Tulong PUSO Program, eligible OFW organizations are granted financial assistance, equipment, tools, raw materials, and support services on a one-time basis. The amount of assistance can go up to P1,000,000, provided that the OFW organization has more than 51 members and fulfills the requirements specific to their livelihood project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I get financial assistance from OWWA? A: To obtain financial assistance from OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration), you can follow these steps:
- Visit the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) that corresponds to your permanent address.
- Alternatively, you can approach the designated Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in your host country.
- Contact OWWA directly for more information and specific instructions on how to apply for financial assistance.
Q: How much financial assistance does OWWA provide? A: The amount of financial assistance offered by OWWA varies depending on the specific program and the qualifications of the Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) member and their family. OWWA provides financial aid for various purposes such as medical, educational, calamity, and livelihood support. The range of financial assistance provided by OWWA starts from P1,200 and can go up to P1,000,000. The specific amount you may receive will depend on the program you are eligible for and meet the necessary criteria.
Please note that the information provided is based on the knowledge available up until September 2021. It is recommended to verify the current guidelines and procedures with OWWA or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Summary
In summary, OWWA membership offers numerous cash aid programs to OFWs and their families, including educational, medical, and livelihood assistance. OWWA also provides additional benefits, such as support in times of calamity or the sudden death of an OFW member. OWWA Cash Assistance for OFWs & Dependents | Apply Now
Therefore, it is crucial for OFWs to maintain an active OWWA membership to ensure insurance coverage for themselves and their families, particularly during unfortunate and unforeseen situations.
Contact Details
OWWA Central Office
Address: OWWA Center Building, F.B. Harrison St, Pasay, Metro Manila
Hotline: 1348
NCR Hotline: 09666250016
Reintegration Unit: 8834-0719
Website: https://owwa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/OWWAofficial
Email: owwacares@owwa.gov.ph
