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What is OFBank? Overseas Filipino Bank for OFWs

The Overseas Filipino Bank, otherwise known as OFBank, is the first officially authorized digital-only bank in the Philippines. It is a wholly owned branchless subsidiary of the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), and was designed to offer fast, safe, and cost-effective products and services especially tailored for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) without even visiting any physical branches.

Originally founded in 1906 as the Philippine Postal Savings Bank (PPSB) or Post Bank, it was acquired by the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and converted into what is now known as OFBank—the 16th largest thrift bank and the smallest of the three state-owned banks in the Philippines. So, if you are an OFW looking for a comprehensive banking solution that can cater to your needs as an OFW, then you can look into what OFBank has to offer. Through this article, you can also learn more about what sets it apart from all the other Philippine banks aside from its digital-only platform, convenient, artificial intelligence-powered banking transactions.

What is OFBank

OFBank is a digital-only bank exclusively designed by the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) to offer products and services to OFWs and their families and beneficiaries. It is well known for being a trailblazer when it comes to AI-powered banking, Digital Onboarding System with Artificial Intelligence (DOBS AI), and electronic know-your-customer (e-KYC) processes.

OFBank History

As far as history goes, OFBank started out in 1906 as the Philippine Postal Savings Bank Inc. (PPSB). It stopped operating in 1976 and re-opened as Philippine Postal Savings Bank Inc. (PPSB) under the Philippine Postal Corporation (PPC) by virtue of the Republic Act No. 7354. As PPSB, it offered domestic and international remittance services and loans to microfinance institutions.

In 2016, Landbank or LBP acquired the re-opened Post Bank and in 2017, by virtue of then-president Rodrigo R. Duterte’s Executive Order No. 44, rebranded it into the new OFBank—the first state-owned branchless bank that offers fast, safe, convenient, and cost-effective remittance services, credit facilities, and financial assistance to OFWs and their families and dependents. In 2020, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) issued Circular No. 1105 on The Guidelines on the Establishment of Digital Banks which paved the way for OFBank’s establishment as a digital bank. In 2021, OFBank officially announced its intention to be licensed as such while operating as a thrift bank. In June 2021, OFBank officially launched as the country’s first branchless and digital-centric government-owned bank.

To date, OFBank continues to fine-tune its systems and processes while expanding its operation as a digital bank during the first of the three-stage licensing framework set by the BSP. For now, it offers a digital reach spanning 112 countries with accessible services provided by 763 merchants—including 124 utility and service companies, 186 educational institutions, 277 government agencies and local government units (LGUs), 140 cooperatives/associations/foundations/corporations, 20 hospitals/healthcare/clinics, and 16 banks, credit card companies and insurance companies.

OFBank Mission

OFBank, as the first digital-only, branchless Philippine bank, strives to be a convenient, reliable, and secure bank that offers solutions tailor-made to the long-term needs of Overseas Filipinos, OFWs, their beneficiaries, and other stakeholders through strategic alliances and partnerships.

OFBank Vision

For its vision, OFBank hopes to be the leading OFW-centric branchless, digital bank in the Philippines offering competitive, reliable, and innovative products and services in the country by 2024.

Benefits of Banking with OFBank

The following are some of the benefits offered by OFBank to the OFWs and their dependents:

For both senders and recipients:

OFBank offers the most efficient and affordable remittance options.
OFBank offers an easy-to-use, fast, and safe OFBank Mobile Banking App (MBA) for digital banking.
The bank intends to gradually reduce the cost of OFBank remittance and increase the government’s position in the remittance industry.

For OFWs and their dependents:

OFBank offers improved lending facilities and financial assistance designed to meet both personal and business needs.
Provide the most effective, accessible, affordable, fast, and safe remittance method for both senders and recipients.
Offer enhanced credit facilities and financial assistance for OFWs and their families enterprise development and personal needs.
Convenient and secure electronic know-your-customer (e-KYC) process for its online account opening through its Digital Onboarding System with Artificial Intelligence (DOBS AI).

OFBank Products and Services

The OFBank offers numerous digital products and services that includes a Digital Onboarding System with Artificial Intelligence (DOBS-AI), an AI-powered system which allows real-time opening and verification of a mobile banking deposit account on any supported iPhone or Android devices.

Aside from this trailblazing AI technology, OFBank also offers the following products and services to Overseas Filipinos, OFWs, and their dependents.

Deposits

OFBank Visa Debit Card

This is a Peso savings account exclusively created for Overseas Filipinos (OF) and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW). It allows sending of remittances via Visa Direct through any Visa partners abroad.

OFBank Regular Debit Card

This is an interest-bearing Peso savings account especially for OF or OFW beneficiaries who are between 7 and 18 years old.

OFBank Debit Beneficiary Card

This is a Peso savings account for OF or OFW beneficiaries who are 18 years old and above. Using this card, you can transfer funds to any OFBank or LANDBANK ATM accounts for free.

Loans

OFW Reintegration Program

This is a resulting credit assistance program from the collaboration between Landbank and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). It was designed to help provide business opportunities to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as an alternative to overseas employment.

Multi-Purpose Loan

At this time, OFBank is yet to launch its own loan offering. In the meantime, they offer multiple financial assistance for capital building or operational expansion through the lending programs of their parent bank—Landbank.

Loans to Farmers & Fishers

Landbank offers financial assistance to help finance ventures in agribusiness, be it for additional capital, production increase, or operational expansion.

Housing Loans

Landbank offers housing loans via the Landbank Housing Opportunities Made Easy (HOME) Program—a lending program created for both homebuyers and home developers.

Business Loans

Landbank also supports entrepreneurs through its various lending programs. With its presence in all of the 81 provinces nationwide, entrepreneurs are given the support they need to start or expand their existing business wherever they are in the country.

Bahay para sa Bagong Bayani (3B)

A special lending program exclusively designed for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) so they can acquire, build, or renovate their homes at relaxed and flexible terms.

Treasury

Premyo Bonds Para sa Bayan

A special OFBank investment program where participants who invest in bonds get one (1) Premyo bond unit for every Php500.00 placement. Each Premyo Bond unit entitles the bondholder to one electronic rewards number (e-RN).

Remittance

The OFBank offers the following options to send and receive money:

“Transfer to Anyone” option on the Landbank/OFBank Mobile Banking Application (MBA)

Transfer funds via the Landbank/OFBank Mobile Banking App, choose “Transfer to Anyone”, enter the destination account number you wish to send money to, and key in the amount you wish to transfer.

Via Instapay/Pesonet

If you wish to make real-time fund transfers from any local Philippine Bank or e-wallet like GCash and Paymaya, then you want the option to transfer funds via Instapay. If you have the luxury of waiting 1-3 days, then you may opt for Pesonet transfers.

To do so, choose “Landbank” as the destination bank and input the 10-digit OFBank account number.

Send money via Visa Direct

If you are sending money from your bank abroad, you may access the OFBank remittance service through an Internet/mobile banking account or ATM. Simply enter the recipient’s 16-digit Visa card number and the amount you want to send. Note: This service is not available if you are using the OFBank Regular Debit Card.

Through overseas Remittance Centers

If you are sending money from overseas via overseas remittance centers, then you will need the following information:

Name of Account Holder
10-digit Account Number
Name of Bank: Landbank Of The Philippines, not OFBANK

For a list of the OFBank partner agencies, you may visit: https://www.landbank.com/remittance/remittance-partners. The transfers will be credited to the OFBank account in real time. For non-partners, the remittance will be credited according to their regular remittance processes

Transfer funds from your account through your foreign bank account.

You may also use your foreign account to send money to your OFBank account. Simply instruct your bank to remit to the OFBank account with the following information:

Name of Account Holder
10-digit Account Number
Name of Bank: Landbank Of The Philippines, not OFBANK
SWIFT CODE: TLBPPHMMXXX

E-Banking

Retail Internet Banking

Using the OFBank Internet Banking Channel, you may manage your OFBank account in a convenient, reliable, and safe manner.

Alternative Payment Channel

Paying the bills and any other financial obligations can also be done easily using the OFBank e-payment facility.

OFBank Mobile Banking App

The OFBank Mobile Banking Application (MBA) is a free application that offers convenient access to a wide array of services including the following:

Online Account Opening
Quick Balance
Fund Transfer to own, anyone and other Banks
Bills Payment
Cardless Withdrawal
Mobilock
Purchase Treasury Bonds
Loan Application
One-time Pin (OTP)
Contact Us

Others

Leasing Facility

OFBank also offers a lease-to-own facility where the LLFC (Lessor) acquires an asset directly from a third party (usually the supplier or manufacturer) and leases it out to the OFBank client (Lessee).

Requirements to Open an Account with OFBank

If you plan to open a bank account with OFBank, here are the requirements you need to prepare:

Stable and secure Internet connection
Active email address
Active mobile numbers
For scanning and verification purposes: Any one (1) valid identification (ID) card from the list below:
- For Overseas Filipinos and Overseas Filipino Workers:
  - Passport
  - PRC ID
  - UMID
- For Beneficiaries:
  - Company ID
  - Driver’s License
  - GSIS ID
  - OFW ID
  - OWWA ID
  - Passport
  - Postal ID
  - PRC ID
  - School ID
  - Senior Citizen ID
  - SSS ID
  - UMID
  - Voters’ COMELEC ID

Note that you need to check that the information you enter in the application matches the information on the ID you are presenting.

How to Open an OF Bank Account Online – Step by Step

If you are an OFW or one of their beneficiaries and you wish to experience for yourself what the hype regarding OFBank is all about, here’s the complete procedures on how to open an account:

Download the OFBank Mobile Banking App from the App Store (if you are an iOS user) or Google Play (if you are an Android phone user)
- Type and search “OFBank” from Google Play or Apple App, depending on the type of phone you use.
- Download and install the MBA version in your smartphone for free.
- Once downloaded, click on the OFBank MBA icon.
- Click on “I Agree” after reviewing the Terms and Conditions.
Once installed, open the OFBank Mobile Banking App by clicking on the app icon.
On the Login screen, key in your login credentials (user ID and password).
Click “Continue” on the welcome screen.
On the reminders page, choose the relevant description for you (whether you are an OFW, an Overseas Filipino, or a beneficiary).
Click “Proceed.”
Click “Confirm” to verify that you have read and accepted the Terms and Conditions Agreement.
Enter the required information in the section labeled “Profile Details.”
To confirm the nominated mobile number registered to your account, enter the one-time PIN (OTP) then press “Submit.”
Verify your email address, by enter the one-time PIN (OTP) then pressing “Submit.”
Once verified, create a user profile and choose your password.
Continue by selecting Security Questions and Answers and then clicking the “Next” button.

Input your personal, financial, and account information.
Upload your valid ID.
Take a selfie and upload it as well.
Review the information that has been provided and click “Confirm.”
Check your email for a confirmation to see if you have successfully created an OFBank account.

Video: How to Open an Overseas Filipino Bank (OFBank) Account Online

If you want to open an Overseas Filipino Bank (OFW) account but you want an easy and convenient procedure to follow along with, you should be able to open an account online when you check out this explainer video posted by Landbank Official’s YouTube channel:

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any further questions regarding OFBank and its features, products, and services, you may check out this list of frequently asked questions and answers:

1. What is OFBank?

OFBank stands for Overseas Filipino Bank. It is the country’s first-ever state-owned digital-only branchless subsidiary of the Landbank of the Philippines (LBP).

2. What is the purpose of OFBank?

The OFBank was especially designed to offer Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their beneficiaries fast, safe, and convenient banking options, secure financial products and services, and cost-effective international remittance services.

3. What types of accounts does OFBank offer?

The following are deposit accounts offered by OFBank to overseas Filipinos, OFWs, and their families and beneficiaries:

OFBank Visa Debit Card for Beneficiaries
OFBank Regular Debit Card for Beneficiaries
OFBank Visa Debit Card for Overseas Filipinos and Overseas Filipino Workers

4. Do I have to submit a hard copy of my ID card?

No. A photo of the applicants’ ID will only be required to be submitted online via the OFBank Mobile Banking App during the account opening application procedure.

5. How do I send money to my beneficiary’s LANDBANK or OFBank account?

If you have a Landbank or an OFBank account, you may use the OFBank Mobile Banking App to transfer money to your beneficiary’s Landbank or OFBank ATM without paying a fee. Otherwise, you may use your bank’s app and transfer to the destination Landbank or OFBank account via Instapay or Pesonet.

6. What should I do if my OFBank credit card was lost or stolen?

In case you lose your OFBank debit or credit card, you may reach out to OFBank by calling the OFBank Customer Care Hotline at (+632) 8-405-7000. You may also call the PLDT Domestic Toll Free number at 1-800-10-405-7000 to report the situation right away. In case you can’t call, you may also send an email to customer.care@mail.ofbank.com.ph.

Additionally, you can also instantly block your card via the iAccess online banking service available at the Landbank website at https://www.lbpiaccess.com.

Summary

The Overseas Filipinos (OF), migrant workers, and their beneficiaries have always been one of the most protected members of Philippine society. On top of the numerous agencies looking out for their safety and well-being, there are a lot of institutions that are being groomed to help address their needs—financial, social, or otherwise. Now that the world has evolved into the Internet age, things are pretty much the same, except the transactions are mostly carried out online.

In an effort to match the evolving needs of the OFWs and their families, the OFBank was created with their convenience in mind. In fact, we have already designed a much simpler way to get access to digital banking options and other important financial services like remittances and loans—to quickly and securely create a bank account online.

It was meant to be a “milestone” in the country’s banking history meant to “help the Philippines leapfrog to the digital economy” through modernization and expansion of its services

Contact Information

Overseas Filipino Bank (OFBank)
Office Address: OFBank Center Liwasang Bonifacio, Ermita, Manila, 1000
Email address: customer.care@mail.ofbank.com.ph
Telephone Number: (02) 8-405-7000 or 1-800-10-405-7000 (PLDT Domestic Toll Free)
OFBank’s website: https://www.ofbank.com.ph

how to get dole akap cash assistance for ofws

DOLE-AKAP Online Application Cash Assistance for OFWs

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck worldwide, many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) were displaced or didn’t receive their salary. Fortunately, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) launched a financial assistance program for OFWs affected by Covid-19, land-based and sea-based. This program is one-time cash assistance amounting to P10,000 or converted to the local currency of the OFW’s host country. So read on to find out how to apply for DOLE-AKAP cash assistance for OFWs.

Also Read: OWWA Membership: How do I Become a Member of OWWA?

The DOLE-AKAP program assists OFWs who were displaced or are not receiving their salary. In addition, the program is accessible for OFWs who temporarily lose their jobs due to lockout or in quarantined. But to access cash assistance, OFWs should meet the qualification and documentary requirements. Priority is also given to OFWs applying in certain countries for workers requiring immediate assistance if their employer or the host country can’t provide adequate support.

What is DOLE-AKAP?

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) of the Philippines launched the DOLE-AKAP Financial Assistance Program, aiming to assist displaced OFWs due to the Covid-19 outbreak. This program provides one-time financial assistance to land-based and sea-based OFWs who lost their jobs temporarily or permanently. The financial aid is worth P10,000 or converted to the local currency of the host country. The OWWA DOLE-AKAP is also called “Ayuda” (help).

It aims to assist OFWs by providing them with financial funds, especially for displaced workers who don’t have an income. Meanwhile, the DOLE-AKAP program is not a loan. But instead, financial assistance from the government for OFWs directly affected by Covid-19. Thus, OFWs are not required to pay back the money after receiving the P10,000 financial aid. The application for this program is also free and doesn’t involve any fees.

Moreover, the program is in line with the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act of the Philippine Government with the primary purpose of assisting displaced OFWs in varying countries as a consequence of Covid-19. Under the DOLE-AKAP financial assistance program, priority OFWs who urgently need assistance due to the lack of aid from their employers or the host country they are working.

Qualifications

Now, the question is, who qualifies for the DOLE-AKAP cash assistance program? If you’re wondering who can avail of the DOLE-AKAP for OFWs, here are the following qualifications:

Regular/Documented OFWs (as per 2016 Revised POEA Rules and Regulations)

Documented active/inactive OWWA members

With a valid Philippine passport and work visa in the host country (or appropriate visa)

A contract of employment process by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) or the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO)

Qualified Undocumented OFWs

Previously recorded employees who have lost their documented status due to some circumstance or reason

Employees without POEA registration or contract of employment not yet processed by POEA or POLO but have acted to amend their status or contract

Active OWWA members not yet registered with POEA or with contracts but not yet processed by POEA or POLO

Balik-Manggagawa or returning OFWs unable to return to the host country as a result of lockdown in the Philippines and vice versa

On the other hand, the following individuals are no longer qualified to apply for DOLE-AKAP financial assistance program:

OFWs who have already received the DOLE-AKAP financial assistance of P10,000

OFWs with expired or terminated employment contracts due to other reasons

OFWs who have received a P10,000 cash assistance through the OWWA Special Order No. 053, Series No. 2020, Special Financial Assistance to the Stranded OFWs due to the Covid-19 pandemic

Requirements

The DOLE-AKAP financial assistance program is open for all qualified land-based and sea-based OFWs directly affected by Covid-19. If applying for this program, please secure the following documentary requirements:

Passport or travel document

Proof of Overseas Employment:

Overseas Employment Contract (OEC)

If BM, Balik Manggagawa (BM) Online Certificate

Visa/Re-entry Visa

Other documents requested by the evaluation office

Proof of loss of employment due to Covid-19, such as termination or summary letter

For ROF, proof of return to the Philippines:

Airline ticket

Boarding Pass or arrival stamp

For stranded BM, obtain requirements 1 to 3 and include the following:

Valid visa

Return ticket or boarding pass of the last arrival to the Philippines

Priority Countries/Territories that Benefit from DOLE-AKAP

For on-site OFWs, here are the following countries/territories that have priority to access the DOLE-AKAP financial assistance:

Australia

Belgium

Brunei

Canada

Cyprus

Germany

Greece

Hong Kong

Israel

Italy

Japan

Jordan

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Korea

Kuwait

Lebanon

Libya

Luxembourg

Macau

Malaysia

Netherlands

New Zealand

Oman

Qatar

Russia

Singapore

Spain

Switzerland

Taiwan

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom of Great Britain

United States of America

How to Apply for DOLE-AKAP Online

For Balik Manggagawa repatriated to the Philippines or OFWs that returned to their home country

Launch your browser and visit https://dole-akap.owwa.gov.ph/.

Fill out the required information and click Next.

Upload the required documents.

Next, DOLE-OWWA will evaluate your documents, so you’ll have to wait.

DOLE-OWWA will inform you via email if incomplete requirements.

Once approved and the documentary requirements are complete, DOLE-OWWA will give you instructions on how to claim the P10,000 financial assistance.

For Qualified Undocumented Workers

For undocumented OFWs, secure proof with an employer that you’ve completed the necessary paperwork to document their stays in the host country, like a work permit, employment contract, or payslip.

After submitting the necessary documents, click the Submit button. Then, you’ll receive a confirmation receipt via email.

Next, the OWWA Regional Office officer will evaluate the application with complete documentary requirements. OWWA will notify you through your contact details or Facebook account if accepted or rejected.

If approved, the DOLE Regional office will fund your request within five (5) working days via PESO Net or money transfer.

How to Apply for DOLE-AKAP via POLO

For On-site OFWs

Alternatively, OFWs abroad can go to the nearest POLO office to apply for DOLE-AKAP cash assistance. But an appointment may be necessary for some POLO offices. So ensure to book an appointment or contact POLO ahead of your visit.

Book an appointment with the POLO office in your host country.

Submit the documentary requirements, including the DOLE-AKAP application form. Also, other POLO offices may request you send your documentary requirements via email.

POLO will evaluate your application within five (5) working days.

Once approved, POLO will give you instructions on how to claim the P10,000 financial assistance.

How to Apply for DOLE-AKAP for Seafarers

Launch your browser and visit https://dole-akap.owwa.gov.ph/.

Fill out the required information and click Next.

Upload the required documents.

Next, DOLE-OWWA will evaluate your documents, so you’ll have to wait.

DOLE-OWWA will inform you via email if incomplete requirements.

Once approved and the documentary requirements are complete, DOLE-OWWA will give you instructions on how to claim the P10,000 financial assistance.

How to Download DOLE-AKAP Application Form

You can access the DOLE-AKAP application form via https://dole-akap.owwa.gov.ph/. But you don’t need to download it since you can fill out the form online through the DOLE-AKAP website. Below is a sample of the DOLE-AKAP application form online:

Reminders

For those who wish to apply for DOLE-AKAP financial assistance, please take note of the following reminders:

Ensure to provide an active and valid email address when applying for DOLE-AKAP financial assistance since DOLE-OWWA will notify you via email.

The application for DOLE-AKAP financial assistance is free and doesn’t involve fees.

OFWs who received a P10,000 cash assistance no longer have to pay it back since it’s not a loan but financial aid.

It’s not required to download the DOLE-AKAP application form since you should fill out the required information online via https://dole-akap.owwa.gov.ph/.

OFWs directly affected by Covid-19 can apply for DOLE-AKAP financial assistance, including workers who permanently or temporarily lost their jobs and have reduced salaries.

Financial assistance is also accessible for OFWs that tested positive for Covid-19, both land-based and sea-based.

The DOLE-AKAP is also for OFWs that haven’t received OWWA financial assistance.

OFWs who haven’t accepted salary or financial aid from their employer and the host country due to Covid-19 can also apply for the DOLE-AKAP program.

Video: DOLE AKAP ₱10,OOO CASH ASSISTANCE FOR OFW MAKUKUHA NA

To learn more about DOLE-AKAP financial assistance, please check out the video below:

As discussed in the video, OFWs who applied for DOLE-AKAP will receive P10,000 financial assistance who are affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. It’s a financial assistance program launched by DOLE in line with Republic Act 11469. To qualify for financial aid, OFWs should lose their job due to lockdown, quarantine, or other reasons caused by the pandemic. So for OFWs who haven’t received financial assistance, we advise applying for the DOLE-AKAP program.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to apply for DOLE-AKAP financial assistance?

To apply for DOLE-AKAP financial assistance, secure the documentary requirements and fill out the online application form through this link https://dole-akap.owwa.gov.ph/.

How to claim DOLE-AKAP financial assistance?

If your application is approved, DOLE-OWWA will provide instructions on how to claim financial assistance.

How much is DOLE-AKAP financial assistance for OFWs?

The DOLE-AKAP financial assistance is P10,000 or converted to the local currency of the OFW’s host country.

How to check if DOLE-AKAP is approved?

Visit this link https://owwa.gov.ph/?page_id=4287 to check if your application for DOLE-AKAP is approved. Scroll down and click the Track your DOLE-OWWA AKAP application button.

Summary

To sum up, the DOLE-AKAP is open for OFWs who have been repatriated to the Philippines or are still working abroad but got salary deductions. Financial assistance is also available to OFWs who haven’t received their salary from their employers or didn’t receive aid from the host country or OWWA financial assistance. For on-site OFWs, visit the designated POLO in your host country. Repatriated Balik Manggagawa and OFWs should apply for DOLE-AKAP at OWWA Regional Welfare Offices.

Contact Details

DOLE-OWWA
OWWA Hotline: 1348
OWWA NCR Hotline: 09666250016
OWWA Reintegration Unit: 8834-0719
Website: https://owwa.gov.ph/
Email: owwacares@owwa.gov.ph

OWWA Pre-Departure Education Program

Since the Overseas Workers Welfare Association (OWWA) was established, they have provided overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) with a Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) or a Pre-Departure Education Program. This program provides them with all the essential and tailored information relevant to help them cope with the new environment they are about to work in and learn about the culture of their destination country.

Also Read: Complete List of OWWA Programs, Benefits, and Services

Additionally, the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) was expanded overtime when the Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP) was implemented and these two are the basic programs of OWWA’s knowledge and education policy for the overall safety and welfare of the OFWs.

Table of Contents

What is the OWWA – Pre-Departure Education Program?

Country-Specific Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS)

Country-Specific Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) consists of a one-day comprehensive orientation for OFWs about their employment contract, country profile, health and safety, financial literacy, travel tips, and other relevant and vital information to assist and prepare them for their departure. This one-day comprehensive orientation also covers a set of seven (7) modules aimed to provide comprehensive advice to aspiring OFWs. The orientation usually took six (6) hours long.

Topics Covered by the Country-Specific Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS)

1. Migration realities

Cultural Perspectives

OFW Code of Discipline

2. Destination Country Profile

Working Hours

Multi-Cultural environment

3. Employment Contract

OFW contract rights and obligations, as well as what to do if the contract is broken

4. Health and Safety

Health and Safety for OFWs

5. Financial Literacy

The importance of financial planning, saving, and investing.

6. Available government programs and services for OFWs

OWWA Programs and Services

Other government agencies involved in migration

7. Travel procedures and tips

DO’s and DONTs while traveling

Agencies Conducting Seminars

Government Departments

NGOs

Private individuals acting as service providers

Philippine Red Cross – has also hosted PDOS in cooperation with the Philippine Government and recruitment agencies.

National Society – is also another agency that offers psychological support to OFWs’ families as they adjust to the changes in their family structure brought on by their overseas jobs.

Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP)

The Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP) is another type of PDOS for Household Service Workers (HSWs) or Domestic Workers (DWs). This seminar is a four to six-day mandatory orientation seminar for Domestic Workers. This program aims to educate and prepare them for working outside the country where the culture, customs, and traditions are drastically different. The seminar orientation consists of three modules; Basic Language Training, Cultural Familiarization, and Stress Management.

1. Basic Language Training

The Basic Language Training of OWWA offers a Language and Culture Familiarization Course which began in January 2007 offering Arabic Language classes and later on expanded.

Below is the list of all the language courses offered by OWWA for the OFWs.

Arabic – three (3) days of training

Cantonese – three (3) days of training

Hebrew – three (3) days of training

Italian – three (3) days of training

Mandarin – six (6) days of training

Under this training course, trainees will receive extensive language training as well as basic household vocabulary. This training course also covers the different forms of Arabic, Cantonese, Hebrew, Italian, and Mandarin languages, history, culture, faith, and justice system including the prohibitions to make them more conscious and prepared. Additionally, the training program also provides the trainees with a proper pronunciation guide, greetings and apologies, numerals and currency, calendar, time, customs, and values.

2. Cultural Familiarization

This module addresses any potential cultural barriers that aspiring OFWs may face when working in another country.

3. Stress Management

This module prepares the employees physically and psychologically for any pressures brought by working in another country. This training course also aims to increase awareness and understanding of the causes and effects of stress. It also discusses workers’ current coping strategies being validated and their new coping mechanisms being created.

Additionally, this seminar is a half-day program conducted to raise awareness of the causes and consequences of stress and assist in physically and mentally preparing them for the challenges of working abroad.

OWWA Accredited Providers of PDOS and CPDEP

1. Agency Associations (AIs)

These agencies conduct PDOS for skilled, technical and professional workers of their member agencies.

2. Country Specific (CS)

3. Recruitment Agencies

They can either be sea-based or land based. They conduct PDOS for their own skilled workers.

4. NGOs

They conduct PDOS for HSWs, OPAs and workers belonging to vulnerable occupational groups.

5. Supplemental PDOS

List of OWWA Regional Offices (RWOs)

RWO NCR – Pasay City

RWO CAR – Baguio City, Cordillera Administrative Region

RWO I – San Fernando, La Union

RWO II – Carig Sur, Tuguegarao City

RWO III – San Fernando, Pampanga

RWO IV-A – Calamba, Laguna

RWO IV-B – Malate, Manila

RWO V – Legazpi City

RWO VI – Ilo-Ilo City

RWO VII – Cebu City

RWO VIII – Tacloban

RWO IX – Zamboanga City

RWO X – Cagayan De Oro City

RWO XI – Davao City

RWO XII – Koronadal City

RWO CARAGA – Butuan City

RWO ARMM – Cotabato City

Benefits

Below are the benefits that the trainees or aspiring OFWs may get from PDOS and CPDEP.

The PDOS and CPDEP aim to help OFWs adapt to their new jobs and remain at them for the first six months of their employment.

They also address the basic needs of OFWs for orientation and do not overburden them with details.

The trainees are also equipped with relevant and reliable information through country-specific orientation seminars which are sometimes as skill-specific as possible to help them in the transition to their new work environment as quickly as possible.

This seminar also increases the responsiveness of PDOS for HSWs to the health and security needs of this vulnerable population.

Additionally, this training course will prepare the HSWs to deal with the difficult job conditions and climate in international households.

Qualifications

Here are the eligibility requirements for the PDOS and CPDEP.

Emigrating Filipinos from the Philippines – those who have been issued an immigrant visa)

Adults between the age group of 20 to 59 years old and children between the ages of 13 to 19 years old.

Adults more than 59 years old and children below 13 years old are not eligible to take PDOS and CPDEP.

Requirements

Below are the list of all the required documents that you have to prepare and secure to attend for PDOS and CPDEP.

Original and valid passport

Original and valid visa

One (1) valid identification card (ID) with a picture

Payment

for PDOS, a Php 400 intended for Registration Fee

for CDEP, there’s no Registration Fee but you have to pay $25 OWWA membership fee

PDOS or CPDEP Attendance

An Original of the following country-specific documents:

Immigrant Data Summary for US-bound emigrants except for the K visa holders.

A Permanent Residence Confirmation for emigrants heading to Canada.

A Nulla Osta for emigrants heading to Italy.

A Certificate of Eligibility for emigrants heading to Japan.

For emigrants heading to Australia, a Letter of Approval for Work to Residence Visa is required.

A Letter of Approval for Work to Residence Visa is also required for emigrants heading to New Zealand.

Procedure

Here is a step-by-step guide and instructions to make an online appointment for the PDOS and CPDEP.

Step 1: See the public notice about PDOS or CPDEP.

Step 2: Then, complete all the preliminary questions below to see if the PDOS or CPDEP is required, and then fill in your email address and click the “Submit” button.

Questions:

How are you related to your petitioner/sponsor?

What is your country of destination?

What is your visa type/category/classification?

Step 3: After that, check your inbox including your SPAM folder for a confirmation letter. Then, click “Confirm Email” and fill out the details on the “PERSONAL INFORMATION” tab.

Step 4: Then, you will be notified if you are expected to attend the PDOS or CPDEP.

To participate in PDOS, you’ll have to go to the “SET YOUR SCHEDULE” page and use the calendar to choose your desired date and time. Take note that there are limited slots available per session per day.

If you are exempted to attend PDOS or CPDEP, proceed to Step 5.

Step 5: You have to complete the online registration form and click the “Proceed to registration” button.

Step 6: Then, upload a recent and clear picture and fill out all the required fields on the registration form with complete and accurate details.

Step 7: After that, the barcoded confirmation form can be downloaded and printed. Then, bring this along with all other specifications to the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) on the appointed date. Additionally, your Registration Form needs NOT to be printed. Also, for the Verification Phase, please arrive at CFO at least 2 hours ahead of your scheduled PDOS or CPDEP.

Important Reminders

Here are some of the important things you have to remember about the Pre-Departure Program by OWWA.

After you have completed the PDOS or CPDEP, you’ll be given a Certificate of Completion.

The Certificate of Completion will be then submitted to the POEA for processing.

Additionally, you have to present your Certificate of Completion upon departure.

Aside from the PDOS and CPDEP, it is also essential that you will stay updated about the country you’ll be visiting.

More importantly, take note that CFO will only approve PDOS or CPDEP applications that meet all of the registration criteria.

If you have additional questions, you may contact your nearest OWWA Regional Office (RWO) through their respective Facebook page or here – https://facebook.com/OWWAofficial

Video: Pre-Departure Education Program – PDOS and CPDEP

This video is very helpful and insightful as it will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS). This video tackles the important things you need to know about the PDOS program such as the financial benefits you may get from the said program as well as some helpful tips when applying for the PDOS program.

Additionally, it was also discussed in the video the things you have to avoid when you are attending the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS). Aside from that, you will also get an overview of what to expect to learn during the orientation seminar. There are still other important things you can learn from this video about the PDOS program hence; it is advised that you try to watch the full video.

Another video can be accessed here below:

This video will provide you with more information on how to apply for the Pre-Departure Education Program. This is only a short video but it is very insightful. Here, you will get an overview of the topics of discussion included in the orientation seminars. You will also learn here how to reserve a seat to attend the orientation seminar. Aside from that, you will be taught what documents to secure for registration.

Additionally, you will learn who are the ones exempted to attend the orientation seminar. Thus, it is also recommended for you watch this video to broaden your understanding of the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) of OWWA before attending the seminar.

If you wish to know more about the Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP), you may watch this video here:

This video discusses OWWA training tips and reminders for Domestic workers or caregivers. Hence, it is also helpful and a great advantage to learn these things and tips before attending the seminar.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) and Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP) the same?

The Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) and Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP) have the same objective – that is to provide the aspiring overseas Filipino workers with all the essential and tailored information relevant to help them cope with the new environment they are about to work in and learn about the culture of their destination country. However, the Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP) is only intended for Household Service Workers (HSWs).

2. Who is exempted from attending the Pre-Departure Education Program?

Children below 13 years old and adults more than 59 years old are exempt from attending the Pre-Departure Education Program.

3. Do I need to bring my PDOS certificate to the airport?

You have to bring your PDOS or CPDEP certificate at the airport upon departure if you are a first-timer. However, if you are a Balik Manggagawa, there is no need to bring it.

4. I’m a student, do I still need to attend PDOS even if I have a student visa?

If you are a student pursuing studies abroad, you also have to attend a Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar intended for international or exchange students for this is a requisite.

5. How about the tourist visa holders, do they still need to attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar?

Tourist visa holders also need to attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) since this is a requirement when you exit the country and visit, work, or move to another foreign country.

6. Are there any fees I have to pay when I intend to attend the PDOS for Domestic Workers abroad?

For Domestic Workers, you don’t have to pay any fees to attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) because it will be paid by your agency. You are just required to attend the orientation seminar and learn more about the things you have to remember when working in another country.

7. How much is the registration fee to attend the Pre-Departure Education Program?

There is a Php 400 registration fee to attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS). For the Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP), there is no required registration fee but you must be an active member of OWWA.

8. Are PDOS and CPDEP mandatory for overseas Filipino workers?

PDOS and CPDEP are mandatory orientation seminars that are conducted for all emigrants that are departing for the first time regardless of work classifications. However, CPDEP is specifically intended for Household Service Workers (HSWs) such as caregivers and domestic workers.

9. Do I need to renew my OWWA membership to attend the PDOS or CPDEP?

It is advised and highly recommended to renew your OWWA membership before registering for any of their grants, seminars, or other programs to ensure that you can get the most from them. Inactive OWWA members can not register for the program.

Summary

Hence, this is the process of applying for the Pre-Departure Education Program by OWWA. Just keep in mind to secure all the documentary requirements before applying for the Pre-Departure Education Program and follow the application procedures mentioned above. Additionally, visit the official website of OWWA or the Commission on Filipinos Overseas to stay updated on their announcements and other public notice here – https://cfo.gov.ph/.

If you have some concerns or questions, you may use their contact them on their Facebook page here – https://facebook.com/OWWAofficial.