Quezon city: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has intensified its reintegration efforts through a comprehensive government approach as the number of government-repatriated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) has reached 4,000. In an interview during the 'Bayanihan Para sa Balikbayang Manggagawa: A National Reintegration Network (NRN) Fair' in Quezon City, DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized the government's commitment to sustaining repatriation and post-arrival support in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to ensure the safety and welfare of OFWs.
According to Philippines News Agency, Cacdac noted that the repatriation efforts are close to reaching the 4,000-mark. He highlighted that if those assisted with commercial flights, including post and pre-repatriation flight assistance, are included, the total number of repatriated OFWs would be approximately 4,400. Currently, about 2,000 Filipinos are awaiting repatriation through chartered and commercial flights arranged by the government.
Cacdac stated that the DMW's NRN fair serves as a one-stop platform providing employment, training, and financial assistance to support repatriated OFWs. The fair saw the participation of 22 government agencies, including the Departments of Trade and Industry (DTI), Education, Health, and Information and Communications Technology, as well as the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and private-sector partners. Additionally, around 15 recruitment and manning agencies and 12 companies offered approximately 8,000 job opportunities, both locally and overseas.
Cacdac mentioned that up to 200,000 job orders abroad are available for qualified workers through government job-matching efforts. Meanwhile, OWWA Chief Patricia Yvonne Caunan revealed that a survey conducted by the agency indicated that 55 percent of surveyed OFWs are inclined to start businesses, while 25.5 percent prefer local employment. Some remain open to overseas work, particularly in emerging markets in Europe and Asia.
Caunan acknowledged that many OFWs still wish to work abroad despite the government not encouraging this. She stressed the importance of continuing government efforts to open opportunities locally. Caunan also noted that 342 OFWs are seeking funding to expand their existing businesses, emphasizing that reintegration requires a comprehensive government approach. Assistance includes startup capital, loan access, and skills training offered by the DTI and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
Through the Balik-Pinas, Balik-Hanapbuhay program, qualified OFWs may receive up to PHP25,000 in seed capital, with additional financing support available through partner institutions. Caunan highlighted the priority given to upskilling programs, noting that 60 percent of the returnees were domestic workers. Many are interested in training at TESDA to upskill as caregivers or in other areas to find local employment.
In addition to job and livelihood opportunities, the NRN fair provides psychosocial services, medical assistance, and social welfare support to address the impact of displacement on OFWs and their families. Cacdac assured that reintegration efforts would continue beyond the fair, with ongoing support available through regional offices and overseas posts. He emphasized the commitment to assist Filipinos in moving forward, not only in bringing them home but also in helping them progress in their lives.
