Manila: The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is ramping up the nationwide and overseas delivery of its enhanced OWWA electronic card (eCard), targeting full coverage of its approximately 2.6 million active overseas Filipino worker (OFW) members.
According to Philippines News Agency, OWWA Deputy Administrator Ryan Vincent Uy announced during a media briefing that more than 300,000 eCards were issued in 2025, marking a significant increase from about 56,000 released in 2024. Uy emphasized the agency's goal of achieving 100 percent issuance of eCards to its members. The organization offers both physical and digital versions of the card, with the latter accessible through the e-Gov app once members register with OWWA.
OWWA Deputy Administrator Jasmin Gapatan revealed that the agency is currently conducting its 'Alagang OWWA Serbisyo Caravan' in Manama, Bahrain, from January 2 to 29. Prior to the event, OWWA had already delivered services to approximately 2,763 OFWs and issued about 2,542 eCards. Gapatan highlighted a high satisfaction rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars among OWWA members who have availed of its services, with a recommendation rate of 100 percent.
The OWWA eCard serves as proof of active membership and is designed to facilitate easier access to the organization's programs and services. It is recognized as a government-issued ID and can be presented at any Migrant Workers Office, embassy, or consulate abroad when assistance or services are needed.
With the enhanced eCard, OWWA, under the leadership of Administrator Patricia Yvonne 'PY' Caunan, has partnered with businesses and private companies both in the Philippines and abroad, including in the Middle East and Hong Kong. Through these partnerships, active OFW members can avail of discounts from partner merchants. OWWA currently collaborates with at least 200 partner companies, offering special discounts for eCard holders.
To expedite the issuance process, OWWA has begun decentralizing card printing. eCard printing machines are now available in overseas posts, the OWWA central office in Pasay, at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1 and 3, and selected regional offices. Additional facilities, including seafarers' welfare centers, are anticipated to become operational within the year.
To further accelerate distribution, OWWA has allocated funds to its regional offices across the country for the procurement of printers, enabling them to directly print IDs for members in the regions.
