The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is set to host the ‘Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Caravan’ at the Bren Z. Guiao Sports Complex and Convention Center in San Fernando, Pampanga, on February 25. This event, scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., is specifically designed to cater to the needs of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families residing in Region 3 (Central Luzon). The initiative is part of a broader effort to bring essential services directly to the OFW community, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to enhance the welfare of returning Filipino migrant workers.
The caravan will offer a comprehensive suite of services, including overseas employment assistance, legal and welfare support, medical assistance, and programs focused on livelihood and reintegration. These services are crucial for both current and returning migrant workers, helping them navigate the challenges of working abroad and reintegrating into the local community upon their return.
A significant aspect of the event will be the signing of two pivotal agreements aimed at improving the long-term welfare of OFWs in Pampanga. The first agreement involves a collaboration between the DMW, the Department of Labor and Employment-3, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority-3 (TESDA-3), and the provincial government. The second agreement includes partnerships with the OFW Hospital, Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital, the Department of Health-3, and the provincial government. These agreements are designed to strengthen the cooperation between national and local agencies, thereby enhancing the support system available to OFWs in the province.
Approximately 20 accredited recruitment agencies will be present at the caravan, providing job opportunities for those aspiring to work overseas. This is a vital resource for individuals looking to embark on their journey as OFWs, offering them a direct link to potential employment opportunities.
The DMW’s legal team will be on hand to offer guidance on labor rights, contract disputes, and repatriation concerns, ensuring that OFWs are well-informed about their rights and the support available to them. Additionally, the National Reintegration Center for OFWs will distribute financial aid and livelihood support to around 100 beneficiaries through the AKSYON (Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFW na Nangangailangan) Fund and the Livelihood Program for Overseas Reintegration. The AKSYON Fund is a critical resource that provides legal, medical, financial, and other forms of assistance to OFWs, including repatriation, shipment of remains, evacuation, rescue, and other similar interventions.
To add a lighter touch to the event, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration will organize fun events and games, providing a much-needed break and a chance for OFWs and their families to enjoy themselves. Furthermore, various national agencies will be present to offer additional support, including the Department of Foreign Affairs, National Bureau of Investigation, Department of Labor and Employment, Philippine Statistics Authority, Home Development Mutual (Pag-IBIG) Fund, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, TESDA, Social Security System, and the Overseas Filipino Bank. This comprehensive presence of government agencies underscores the government’s commitment to supporting its OFWs comprehensively.