OWWA Online - Page 38 - Overseas Workers Welfare Administration

Book OWWA Appointment Visit Online

OFWs who wish to visit or transact with an OWWA office are encouraged to secure an appointment before they can visit. While they can so easily book an OWWA appointment online, the process may still vary depending on the office they will be visiting. Depending on the OFW’s current location, they may contact the Philippine Overseas Labor Office – Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (POLO-OWWA) (if abroad) or the OWWA Regional Welfare Offices (RWOs) (if you are in the Philippines) closest to them for the specifics or to check whether they accept walk-ins or require an appointment before visiting.

OFWs who need to book an OWWA appointment may do so online, either via the OWWA appointment scheduler online, through the OWWA mobile app, through the specific POLO-OWWA website, or by sending an email request.

By reading this guide, you will learn how to book an appointment via the different online channels and prepare the requirements and other things you will need in advance before doing just that to ensure that you can enter the POLO or OWWA office you wish to visit at the time you need to do so. It will also help you avail of the many OWWA welfare programs and services especially designed to help overseas workers and their families.

Table of Contents

Booking an OWWA Appointment Online

An OWWA appointment is necessary when OFWs need to pay for their OWWA membership fees, renew their OWWA membership, or inquire about the agency’s existing projects and services. It can be done in person or online, depending on your preference.

Do note, however, that while you may set up an OWWA appointment online, there might be specific processes implemented in the various POLO-OWWA international offices and OWWA Regional Welfare offices, so make sure you verify with the specific office about their process beforehand.

Benefits

Having a confirmed OWWA appointment means:

Being able to transact with the POLO-OWWA or OWWA office at your preferred schedule
Gaining entry at the POLO-OWWA or OWWA office when you visit
Being able to check and prepare all the requirements you need
Being able to confirm that the office you are visiting processes the kind of transaction you are visiting them for
Getting the proper assistance you need without having to make multiple trips to the POLO or OWWA office

Requirements

While the reason for visiting the POLO or OWWA office will dictate the documentary requirements you will need to prepare upon making an appointment, here’s a general list of the requirements you might need, so it’s best to have them prepared:

OWWA OFW Membership Information Sheet
Proof of OWWA membership
Valid government-issued IDs
Valid passport (personal data page and visa page)
Duly signed employment contract
List of qualified dependents (i.e: parent, child, etc.)
Proof of active employment
Most recent payslip
Employment Pass or Work Permit
PSA Birth certificate
PSA Marriage certificate
PSA death certificate
Membership fee
Visa valid for 90 days or more, for OFWs applying through their respective Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) of OWWA

Procedure

Depending on how you book your OWWA Appointment online, here are the procedures to follow:

Booking an Appointment via OWWA Regional Welfare Office Website

For OFWs based in Metro Manila, Kuwait, and Al Khobar, and outside Metro Manila, here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Visit the OWWA Appointment scheduler to book an appointment at any OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) website via this link: https://appointment.owwa.gov.ph.

Step 2: Select your designated OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO).

Step 3: Select the program you would like an appointment for (i.e: reintegration, check claiming)

Step 4: Click “Next.”

Step 5: Select your preferred date of appointment in the calendar.

Step 6: Click “Next.”

Step 7: Fill up the OFW information sheet.

Step 8: Click “Next” after completing your personal information.

Step 9: Confirm the submitted information.

Step 10: Submit your appointment.

Step 11: Check for the confirmation message and slip from OWWA on your nominated email address.

Step 12: Print the confirmation slip and bring this with you on the day of your appointment.

Booking an Appointment by Sending an Email to Your Preferred OWWA Regional Office

To book an appointment with the nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO), simply follow these steps:

Step 1: Check for the email address of the OWWA RWO near you on the OWWA directory available on the OWWA website.

Step 2: Send your full name, address, phone number, and the service you’re considering to the OWWA RWO closest to you via email.

Step 3: Wait for the confirmation of your appointment to be sent via email.

Step 4: On the day of your appointment, visit the preferred OWWA office, along with your appointment confirmation slip.

Booking an Appointment by Calling or Sending an SMS to Your Preferred OWWA Office

Step 1: Check for the telephone or hotline number of the OWWA RWO closest to you on the OWWA directory available on the OWWA website.

Step 2: Make an appointment by calling or texting the preferred OWWA Office.

Step 3: Confirm your appointment with the OWWA office before going.

Booking through POLO-OWWA Offices Website

OFWs who are based overseas may book their appointments through the website of the designated POLO-OWWA Office in their respective countries by following these steps:

Step 1: Open the website of the respective POLO-OWWA office closest to you.

Step 2: Select the program from the given list on the website.

Step 3: Select your preferred date of appointment.

Step 4: Fill up the information sheet.

Step 5: Verify all given information, then take a screenshot of the webpage. This will serve as the confirmation slip for your appointment.

Step 6: Submit the form.

Step 7: Wait for the confirmation email of the scheduled appointment and make sure that you have all the required documents.

Note: Some POLO-OWWA offices do not entertain appointments with incomplete requirements and without a confirmed appointment schedule. It is also important to wait for your confirmed appointment schedule before heading to the office in person.

Booking an Appointment via POLO-OWWA Offices Email

Some POLO-OWWA offices also process appointments made via email. In Singapore, for instance, OFWs may apply or renew their membership through designated windows for POLO offices at the Embassy of the Philippines, provided that they first secure an appointment by sending an emailed request.

Step 1: Check for the email address of the POLO-OWWA office you are planning to visit.

Step 2: Send your full name, address, phone number, and the service you’re considering to the POLO-OWWA closest to you via email.

Step 3: Wait for the confirmation of your appointment to be sent via email.

Step 4: Download and print the information sheet from your designated POLO office website.

Step 5: Fill in all the required information, including details of your employment contract, and details on your latest OWWA contribution.

Step 6: Verify all submitted information before signing.

Step 7: On the day of your appointment, visit the preferred OWWA office, along with your appointment confirmation slip, the OFW Information sheet, and rest of the supplementary documents.

Note: If your OWWA appointment requires you to schedule through the Embassy of the Philippines in your host country, make sure you do it in advance. Also, always check the website or email of the POLO-OWWA office for the specific details.

Important Reminders

Before securing an appointment to any OWWA or POLO-OWWA offices, here are a few reminders worth remembering:

When preparing to submit documentary requirements or filling out forms, make sure to verify all the information for accuracy and completeness as it is illegal to transact with a government agency using false information.
Note that any misrepresentation or false information presented in your official documents may cause legal repercussions in the future.
Make sure to wear appropriate clothes when visiting any OWWA Regional/Satellite Offices or POLO-OWWA Offices. Avoid sleeveless tops, shorts, sandos, or open footwear like slippers.
Only visit the respective OWWA or POLO-OWWA office on your approved appointment schedule.
Not all POLO-OWWA offices have an appointment booking system set up.
Some POLO-OWWA offices only entertain walk-in appearances while others require emailed appointment requests to transact.
Each POLO-OWWA office has a specified guideline on processing appointments, so be sure to follow them carefully.
Follow the social media accounts (particularly the Facebook Page) and the website of the specific OWWA or POLO-OWWA office near you for the latest updates on their programs and services.

Video: Booking an OWWA Appointment Online

For a visual walkthrough on how to book an OWWA Appointment online, you may watch this Youtube video:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions and answers, in case you need some reference when setting up an OWWA appointment online:

1. Why do I need to book an appointment online?

POLO and OWWA offices require scheduling online appointments to streamline their processes, ensure smooth and safer transactions for both employees and visitors, and ensure that they can prioritize specific transactions with secured appointments.

2. Can I book an OWWA appointment while on vacation in the Philippines?

Yes, it is possible to schedule an appointment at any OWWA Regional/Satellite Offices through the OWWA online scheduler (https://appointment.owwa.gov.ph) or by reaching out to the Regional/Satellite Office nearest to you.

3. Can I book an OWWA appointment while working overseas?

Yes. Since it is possible to book an appointment online, either via the website scheduler or via email, it is also possible to schedule an appointment wherever you are. You may also schedule an appointment with your host country’s designated OWWA or POLO-OWWA office. Just make sure you check with the OWWA office first to see whether or not they require an approved appointment.

4. Where can I find my OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) or POLO-OWWA Office?

You may find contact details and locations OWWA Regional/Satellite Offices in the Philippines by visiting the designated website for the POLO-OWWA in your host country or by checking the directory of OWWA regional offices available on the OWWA website.

5. Where can I find information on OWWA programs and services?

You may either check online via the OWWA website or the OWWA mobile app, or visit their official Facebook page at https://facebook.com/OWWAofficial to find information on available OWWA programs and services.

6. How do I check if my OWWA account is active or not?

To check and verify the status of your OWWA membership and confirm whether it is active or expired, you may download the OWWA mobile app and register for an account there. You may also check the receipt for your OWWA membership fee and use it as a reference on when your OWWA membership will actually end.

7. Should I book my appointment with OWWA Regional or POLO-OWWA?

If you are in the Philippines, whether in Metro Manila or outside NCR, then you should go to a website associated with OWWA and book an appointment with the nearest OWWA Regional Office. An appointment with POLO-OWWA is meant for OFWs who are currently overseas.

8. Why I cannot click the date I want to book in their calendar?

If you can’t click on the calendar date when setting your appointment, it simply means that the date is already fully booked and unavailable.

9. Can I go to OWWA without an appointment?

It depends on the OWWA or POLO-OWWA office, but most of the time, you will need a confirmed appointment before visiting any OWWA Regional or POLO-OWWA office.

10. Can I cancel my booked appointment online?

Yes. It is possible to cancel a booked appointment.

11. How do I cancel an OWWA appointment online?

You may cancel a confirmed OWWA Appointment online. Simply use your appointment reference number, key it in your account profile, and hit Cancel or Reschedule button, depending on what you wish to do.

12. Can I visit OWWA on weekends?

No, OWWA Offices operates on weekdays, Mondays thru Fridays, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. OWWA offices are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

13. How can I find the POLO-OWWA web page in the country where I’m at?

You can check on the POLO-OWWA webpage by using your browser and searching for POLO OWWA and your country (if currently residing abroad). You may also ask the OWWA page to give you the website designated to your country. To access the OWWA website from the Philippines, here is the link: https://appointment.owwa.gov.ph/

14. What if all dates in the calendar are highlighted in gray?

This simply means that the OWWA schedules for the entire month is already booked. You might want to click on the next month’s arrow to see if you can book a schedule for another month and date.

15. What if I cannot make it to my scheduled appointment?

If you really can’t make it to your scheduled appointment, make it a point to cancel your appointment schedule and create a new one. It is best to cancel early so that if you cannot make it, your existing appointment slots can be made available to other Filipinos who need it.

Summary

Visiting the OWWA or POLO-OWWA offices may seem simple enough with the advent of online appointment schedulers. But the truth is, OFWs who are looking to visit or transact with either office would need to confirm with the specific branch first before they do so. This is because some offices require different sets of documents while others need emailed appointment requests.

Some also only entertain walk-in applicants so it’s best to check first and avoid being inconvenienced. In any case, doing so is a small price to pay to enjoy all the programs and services offered by the agency to both the OFWs and their families, especially in their time of need.

The guides above were general guidelines for booking an OWWA appointment online, but we still encourage checking with the nearest OWWA or POLO-OWWA office first before setting one so you can come prepared and avoid wasting time and effort on unnecessary things.

Contact Information

For other concerns or if you simply need to learn more, you may reach out to OWWA via the following:

Overseas Workers Welfare Association (OWWA)

Office Address: F.B. Harrison St, Pasay, Metro Manila

Tel. No.: 8891-7601 to 24

OWWA hotline number: 1348, (02) 1348 (Regional), (+632) 1348 (International)

OWWA Email Address: owwacares@owwa.gov.ph, commandcenter@dole.gov.ph

OWWA Facebook page: https://web.facebook.com/OWWAofficial

OWWA website: https://owwa.gov.ph/

You may also reach out to them via the OWWA 24/7 Operations Center via the following:

OWWA 24/7 Operations Center

Landline: (+632)833-OWWA or (+632)833-6992

Globe Hotline: 2917 (Press “3” for OWWA)

Mobile/SMS text messaging: (0917)TXT-OWWA or (0917)898-6992

Facsimile: +63-2-8040638

Email address: opcenter@owwa.gov.ph/ owwa_opcenter@yahoo.com

You also have the option to download and install the OWWA Mobile App from either Google Play Store or Apple Store so you can stay updated on the latest OWWA projects and programs created specifically for OWWA member OFWs who wish for more comprehensive information.

tabang ofw scholarship financial cash assistance

OWWA Tabang OFW Financial Assistance Program

Many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) were affected when the COVID-19 pandemic struck worldwide, which resulted in deaths, repatriation, and loss of jobs. Fortunately, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) launched the Tabang OFW Program to provide financial assistance to the dependents of OFWs at the college level. This OWWA scholarship program is for the dependents of OFWs who lost their jobs, were repatriated, or passed away due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It is one-time financial assistance amounting to P30,000 granted to qualified beneficiaries to continue their college studies.

Launched in 2020, the Tabang OFW Program is OWWAs response to the Unified Financial Assistance System for Tertiary Education Act (UNIFAST). In addition, the program was made possible through the collaboration of OWWA, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The Philippine government allocated a P1 Billion budget for this program, benefiting over 30,000 college students. That’s why if you’re an OFW who has lost your job, repatriated, or a dependent of an OFW who died from Covid-19, keep reading to learn how to apply for OWWA Tabang OFW Program.

What is Tabang OFW Program

The Tabang OFW Program is a Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) that aims to help dependents of OFWs who are studying college. It provides one-time financial assistance worth P30,000 to dependents of OFWs who have lost their jobs, repatriated, or died due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The program was launched in 2020 during the 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Rodrigo Duterte, directing DOLE and CHED to assist those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Benefits

Under the Tabang OFW Program, qualified beneficiaries will receive one-time financial assistance worth P30,000. This assistance is accessible to only one (1) college-level dependent OFWs who have lost their job, repatriated, or died due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Also, note that this program is a scholarship grant from OWWA and not a loan, which means qualified beneficiaries don’t have to pay back the financial assistance. So the dependents of OFWs can surely benefit from the Tabang OFW Program.

Qualifications

Before we proceed with the application procedures, here are the qualifications that applicants of the Tabang OFW Program should meet:

Qualifications for OFWs

For Married OFWs- the child dependent must be single/unmarried and not over 30 years old

For Single OFWs- the dependent must be single/unmarried and not over 30 years old, such as a child (if single parent), sibling, niece, or nephew.

Qualifications for OFW Dependents

Must be a Filipino citizen

Must meet the current admission test and retention criteria of local universities and colleges (LUCs) accredited by CHED, private higher education institutions (HEIs), and state universities and colleges (SUCs)

Have not exceeded the overall residency policy of the University

Have not been expelled/kicked out of the University

Must be enrolled in an undergraduate, post-secondary program at a university or college approved by CHED

Must be OFWs dependent who have lost their jobs, repatriated, or died due to the Covid-19 pandemic (certified by DOLE)

Must not be a recipient of any OWWA or government-funded scholarship programs

Requirements

If you wish to apply for Tabang OFW Program, you must obtain the following OWWA and UNIFAST requirements:

OWWA Requirements

Travel documents, such as passport

Proof of arrival (if a returnee)

Proof of Displacement, any of the following:

Company Certification

POLO Letter

Affidavit

Death certificate or equivalent document (for deceased OFWs)

Official transmission from the Embassy or Consulate

Dependents’ proof of relationship to OFW:

PSA birth certificate of the dependent

Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) if the OFW is single/unmarried

Affidavit stating the OFW dependent is not a recipient of any OWWA or other government-funded scholarship or grant

UNIFAST Requirements

Secure the following document to prove that the dependent of OFW has currently enrolled in any course at a university or college:

Receipt of enrolment:

Certificate of Enrolment (COE)

Certificate of Registration (COR)

Enrolment Assessment Form (EAF)

Enrolment Education (Computerized Format):

Admission Test Score

Evaluation Form

How to Apply for Tabang OFW Program by OWWA

For qualified beneficiaries, you may follow the steps below to apply for OWWA Tabang OFW Program:

Visit the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) that covers your permanent address to get a copy of the Tabang OFW Program Application Form. Also, you can download the application form online thru this link: https://ease.owwa.gov.ph/.

Fill out the application form and attach your documentary requirements.

Next, submit your requirements thru the OWWA representative. Alternatively, you can submit your documentary requirements online or via a courier service (JRS, j&T, or LBC).

Wait for OWWA or DOLE to notify you that you’ve secured a slot for the Tabang OFW Program.

If your application is approved, you will receive a message via email or SMS containing the details on how you can claim financial assistance.

Then, claim the financial grant at the designated Money Exchange Center (Kwarta Padala thru MLhuillier or Palawan Express).

Take note that you can apply for Tabang OFW Program online thru this link: https://ease.owwa.gov.ph/. If the link is not working, you may contact OWWA thru their official website and Facebook page for more details. You can also visit OWWA RWO to apply for the program.

Also Read: OWWA Project EASE – Educational Assistance by Scholarship in Emergencies

Download Tabang OFW Application Form

As stated, qualified beneficiaries of the Tabang OFW Program may apply thru this link: https://ease.owwa.gov.ph/. The link contains an application form you should fill out online if you don’t prefer visiting the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO). Below is a screenshot of the Tabang OFW Application Form online:

Tabang OFW Online Tracker

If you choose to apply for Tabang OFW Program thru the online portal, you can also track the status of your application thru this link: https://tabangtracker.owwa.gov.ph/. The photo below is a screenshot of the Tabang OFW Online Tracker, where you can enter your Full Name and Email to track the progress of your application:

Reminders for OWWA Tabang OFW Program

Please take note of the following reminders regarding the OWWA Tabang OFW Program:

OWWA Regional Welfare Officers (RWOs) will evaluate the applications of OFWs affected by the Covid-19 pandemic before getting an endorsement from DOLE Regional Offices (ROs).

The DOLE ROs will send the list of qualified beneficiaries to DOLE Central Office.

DOLE will gather the list to send the certified master list of qualified beneficiaries for the Tabang OFW program to CHED-UNIFAST.

The financial and management service of DOLE will arrange the documents to send funds to DOLE ROs thru Cash Advance.

DOLE ROs will also arrange documents, including Disbursement Vouchers (DVs) and Budget Utilization Request and Status (BURS), to grant financial assistance to qualified beneficiaries.

Then, the funds are transferred directly to the OFW or designated beneficiary account thru electronic payment or bank transfer within two (2) weeks of the application approval.

Only one (1) dependent per single or married OFWs can apply for the Tabang OFW Program until the allocated funds are available.

For those who wish to apply for the Tabang OFW Program, you may contact OWWA thru their official Facebook page for more details.

Video: OWWA TABANG OFW PROGRAM GUIDE

To learn more about OWWA Tabang OFW Program, please watch the video below:

As discussed in the video, the Tabang OFW Program is for OFWs affected by Covid-19 who have dependents still studying college. OFWs and their applicants can apply for the program online or at OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO). Moreover, the OFW dependent should not be a recipient of any OWWA or government-funded scholarship to be eligible for the program. To make it more convenient for OFWs and their dependents, the requirements for the Tabang OFW Program are also uploadable via the online portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tabang OFW Program in OWWA?

The Tabang OFW Program is a one-time financial assistance that aims to assist qualified dependents of OFWs affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The financial grant for beneficiaries intends to support college-level dependents of OFWs.

How to apply for OWWA Tabang OFW Program?

OFWs and their dependents can apply for Tabang OFW Program if they meet the qualifications and submit the complete requirements. Qualified beneficiaries can apply online or at OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO), which covers their permanent address.

Who qualifies for OWWA Tabang OFW Program?

The Tabang OFW Program of OWWA is for OFWs affected by the Covid-19 pandemic with college-level dependents. The dependent qualifies for the program if the OFW lost a job, repatriated, or died due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Additionally, one (1) child of married OFWs not over 30 years old qualifies for the program. If the OFW is single/unmarried, the child, sibling, niece, or nephew can apply for the program. However, the assurance to access the grant depends on the allocated funds. If the funds are still available, the dependent of OFW may secure a slot in the program.

How much is Tabang OFW Program assistance?

The financial assistance given to qualified beneficiaries is P30,000. It’s a one-time financial assistance they can use to supplement their college studies.

Summary

Considering the number of people affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, OFWs have uncertain employment overseas. With that said, OFWs and their families will surely benefit from the OWWA Tabang OFW Program, providing them with financial assistance for their college-level dependents to continue their education. This program offers a one-time financial grant to supplement qualified beneficiary’s education while reducing the financial burdens of OFWs.

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/
Email: owwacares@owwa.gov.ph

OWWA SUP – Seafarer’s Upgrading Program

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides Filipinos working abroad with the Seafarer’s Upgrading Program (SUP), which intends to assist Filipino seafarers in enhancing their skills and broadening their expertise with varying technical advances. SUP helps Filipino seafarers to boost their competitive advantage and comply with the International Maritime Organizations standards. This OWWA program is open for first-time or returning Filipino seafarers with active OWWA membership status.

Also Read: OWWA ELAP Educational Livelihood Assistance Program

Under this program, qualified Filipino seafarers will receive financial support training of up to P7,500 per course provided by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), or other training centers accredited by TESDA. Take note that the financial assistance granted by OWWA under SUP is free and not a loan. So if you’re a Filipino seafarer who requires financial support for training, read on to learn more about OWWA SUP.

Table of Contents

What is OWWA SUP Scholarship Program for Seafarers?

The Seafarers Upgrading Program (SUP) is a short-term training program OWWA offers Filipino seafarers, providing them with job-related maritime courses based on the Maritime Training Council. It grants qualified applicants financial support worth P1,200 minimum to P7,500 maximum per training course in MARINA or TESDA-accredited centers. The amount also includes transportation and meal allowances for the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) trainees. But do note that Filipino seafarers (both men and women) can only apply for subsequent grants every three (3) OWWA membership contributions.

Benefits

Whether you’re a first-time or returning Filipino seafarer, SUP is a beneficial program that can help enhance your skills and competency before setting sail again. This program grants qualified beneficiaries financial assistance from P1,200 minimum to P7,500 maximum per training course. But the applicant should shoulder the additional expenses. Meanwhile, the grants for applicants introduced to the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) will include transportation and meal allowances.

OWWA SUP Courses for Seaman

While qualified seafarers can freely choose the training course they want to take, the applicants should take up their courses at training centers accredited by the following:

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)

A school or college accredited by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA)

Training Providers accredited and recognized by OWWA or other government institutions

If qualified, here are some training courses Filipino seafarers can take under the SUP program:

Advanced Messman Course

Advanced Training in Chemical Tanker (ATCT)

Advanced Training in Fire Fighting (ATFF)

Advanced Training in Liquid Gas Tanker (ATLGT)

Advanced Training in Oil Tanker (ATOT)

Auxiliary System

Basic Baking

Basic Culinary

Basic Food Service Management

Basic Training for Liquified Gas Tanker Cargo Operation

Basic Training for Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations

Cargo Handling and Care of Cargo

Catering Management (Chief Cook Course)

Control Engineering

Crisis Management

Crowd Management

Deck Watch Keeping (DWK)

Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS)

Engine Room Simulator

Engine Watch Keeping (EWK)

Galley and Provision Management

General Operators Course for Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GOC for GMDSS)

Hazardous Material (HAZMAT)

Housekeeping Management (Steward Course)

International Cooking

Lathe Machine Course

Marine Diesel Engineering

Marine Pollution Consolidated (MARPOL I-VI)

Medical Care (MECA)

Medical Emergency First Aid (MEFA)

Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boat (PSCRB)

Radar Navigation, Radar Plotting & use of ARPA (RNRPUA)

Radar Simulator Course

Radio Electronics Officer’s Course (REOC)

Ship Simulator Bridge Team Work (SSBT)

Shipboard Welding and Lathe Machine

Shore-based Fire Fighting

Specialty Cuisine

Trim and Stability

Qualifications

To avail of the SUP program, here are the following qualifications the applicant should meet:

Must be a Filipino Citizen

The seafarer should have an active OWWA membership status at the time of application.

If you’re a first-time applicant, you should have a single OWWA membership contribution.

Subsequent grants are only approved for every three (3) OWWA membership contributions. But the application should be filed within ninety (90 days) from the applicant’s arrival in the Philippines, regardless if they are on vacation or end of the contract period.

Requirements

If you’re qualified for the OWWA SUP program, here are the following documentary requirements you should secure for the application:

Duly accomplished SUP Application From (available at OWWA RWO)

2×2 colored ID photo (2 copies)

Proof of OWWA membership

Proof of recent residency

Seaman’s Identification Record Book (SIRB) and valid original Philippine passport

How to Apply for SUP Scholarship for Seaman / Seawoman

Follow the steps below to apply for the OWWA SUP program:

Head to the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) that covers your permanent address.

Queue for the EDSP scholarship application, or secure a queuing number and wait for your turn.

Show your passport or valid ID at the Education and Training Unit to verify your Membership Record.

Next, submit your requirements and accomplished application form if your OWWA membership is valid.

Get the schedule to claim the Notice of Award (NOA).

Return to OWWA RWO on the scheduled Notice of Award (NOA) issuance.

Get a priority number and wait for your turn.

Proceed to the designated SUP counter to secure the Notice of Award (NOA).

Also, don’t forget to contact OWWA RWO before visiting since some offices may require an appointment or accept walk-ins.

Reminders on OWWA SUP

For seafarers applying for the SUP program, please take note of the following reminders:

The program only grants qualified applicants up to P7,500 per training course. So the applicant should shoulder any additional expenses on the intended training.

NCR resident applicants should wait within two (2) working days and seven (7) days for those residing outside NCR for their application to be processed, given they have completed the requirements.

The Notice of Award (NOA) is only granted to the applicant once the application is approved.

For approved applicants, you must present the NOA to the accredited training center during the enrolment for your chosen course.

Take note that the NOA only has 45 days of validity. So apply immediately for the free training course after receiving it or wait for another appointment to secure the NOA.

The fee for the training is only waived if the applicant complies with and completes the requirements for their chosen course.

Filipino seafarers can only request subsequent entitlement every three (3) OWWA membership contributions.

When applying at OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO), applicants should contact the said office beforehand to confirm if they require an appointment or accept walk-ins.

Video: P7,500 FREE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE NG OWWA SEAFARER’S UPGRADING PROGRAM | OWWA SUP

To learn more about OWWA SUP, please watch the video below:

As stated in the video, the Seafarers Upgrading Program (SUP) from OWWA provide cash grant to Filipino seafarers, a scholarship program for those who wish to enhance their skills and broaden their expertise. SUP help Filipino seafarers to face technical advances and comply with international maritime standards by providing them with free job-related courses.

Moreover, the courses offered under OWWA SUP vary from Advanced Training in Chemical Tanker and HAZMAT to Housekeeping Management and Specialty Cuisine. Thus, first-time or returning Filipino seafarers should apply for the SUP program and ensure their OWWA membership is active to qualify for the cash grant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is OWWA SUP for seafarers?

The SUP stands for Seafarers Upgrading Program, a scholarship grant from OWWA. It provides financial assistance worth P1,200 to P7,500 to cover training courses for Filipino seafarers, enhancing their skills, expertise, and competitive advantage. In addition, qualified applicants can enroll in varying courses for free at TESDA and MARINA-accredited training centers, given they comply with the requirements and complete their chosen training. However, the SUP program will not cover the entire training fee of qualified applicants. Instead, the applicants are responsible for the additional expenses.

Who is eligible for OWWA SUP?

The Seafarers Upgrading Program (SUP) is for Filipino seafarers with active OWWA membership at the time of application. First-time applicants should have a single OWWA membership contribution to avail of the financial assistance. But for subsequent applications, the request is only approved every three (3) OWWA membership contributions. Additionally, the applicant should comply with the requirements and complete their chosen course for the training fee to be waived.

How to apply for the OWWA SUP program?

If you plan to apply for the OWWA SUP program, check first if you’re qualified. If you are, complete the documentary requirements for the application. Next, go to the OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO), which covers your permanent address. Submit your completed requirements for the SUP application. If approved, get the scheduled release of the Notice of Award (NOA). Then, return to OWWA RWO to claim the Notice of Award (NOA), which you should use within 45 days to get a free training course.

Summary

Through the Seafarers Upgrading Program (SUP), Filipino seafarers can increase their skills and expertise to build a better career in their field. The varying benefits and courses offered under this program will surely benefit and equip Filipino seafarers as they set sail. It will boost their qualifications and credentials, providing them with better employment opportunities in the future.

Furthermore, there are varying courses offered under SUP that Filipinos can consider for more career options. So if you’re a first-time or returning seafarer, keep your OWWA membership status active to be eligible for the Seafarer Upgrading Program (SUP).

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/
Email: owwacares@owwa.gov.ph