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What is PhilHealth? Philippine Health Insurance Corporation

One of the busiest offices among the various government agencies, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), is a government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) meant to provide health insurance coverage and ensure affordable, acceptable, and accessible healthcare services for all Filipino citizens.

Also Read: What is DOLE? Department of Labor and Employment Philippines

PhilHealth is also known as the Philippines’ National Health Insurance Program—a program established to serve as the means for the healthy to help pay for the care of the sick and for those who can afford medical care to subsidize those who cannot. It is a universal social security institution meant to ensure that all Filipinos, regardless of status, have access to quality health care. To learn more about how you too can enjoy these benefits from PhilHealth, then keep reading this guide.

Table of Contents

What is PhilHealth

PhilHealth, otherwise known as the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC), is the government-run version of a national health insurance program in the Philippines. It is funded mostly through taxes, premiums, and other contributions, and is meant to offer programs and services related to health and hospitalization so that all Filipinos can enjoy equal access to quality health care.

PhilHealth History

PhilHealth started out as a simple MARIA Project—a project introduced by the Philippine Medical Association in the early ’60s in an attempt to offer aid and medical assistance to communities in need. In 1969, the Republic Act 6111 (Philippine Medical Care Act of 1969) was signed into law, creating the Philippine Medical Care Commission (PMCC)—a commission tasked to oversee and implement a medical care plan for the entire Philippines.

In the ’90s, the public called for a better, more responsive government health care program, leading to the development and passage of several bills including House Bill 14225 and Senate Bill 01738 which later became The National Health Insurance Act of 1995 (Republic Act 7875). This law paved the way for the creation of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth)—an agency mandated to provide social health insurance coverage to all Filipinos within 15 years’ time.

In October 1997, PhilHealth assumed the administration of the former Medicare program for government and private sector employees from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). It did the same for employees who are members of the Social Security System in April 1998 and from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in March 2005.

Mandate

PhilHealth was established to offer affordable and accessible health insurance coverage for all Filipinos. Originally consist of Programs I and II or Medicare, PhilHealth has since expanded into becoming the universal health insurance program for all. Under the program, PhilHealth will become a system of funds—from the constitution to the collection, management, and disbursement of financial assistance for the basic minimum and other supplementary packages of health services. The agency offers programs that pay for utilization of services, but not for providing health care directly, buying and dispensing drugs and pharmaceuticals, employing physicians and other professionals for the purpose of directly rendering care, and owning or investing in health care facilities.

PhilHealth Powers and Functions

PhilHealth is a tax-exempt GOCC attached to the DOH for policy coordination and guidance. It was mandated by law to have the following powers and functions:

To establish branch offices for the administration, collection, deposit, investment, administration, and disbursement of the National Health Insurance Fund of the National Health Insurance Program;
To formulate and promulgate policies for the sound administration and guidelines for contributions and benefits, cost containment and quality assurance; and health care provider arrangements for the Program;
To supervise, manage, and regulate the provision and appropriation of health benefits, including grants, donations, and other forms of assistance;
To negotiate and sign contracts with health care institutions, professionals, and other persons, juridical or natural, regarding the pricing, payment mechanisms, design and implementation of administrative and operating systems and procedures, financing, and delivery of health services;
To authorize Local Health Insurance Offices (LHIO) to negotiate and enter into contracts in the name and on behalf of PhilHealth with any accredited government or private sector health provider organization;
To determine requirements and issue guidelines for the accreditation of health care providers for the Program in accordance with this Act;
To visit, enter, and inspect facilities of health care providers and employers and secure copies of their medical, financial, and other records and data pertinent to the claims, accreditation, premium contribution, and that of their patients or employees, who are members of the Program;
To audit, report, and submit such report to the President of the Philippines and to both Houses of Congress regarding the status, activities, and implementation of the National Health Insurance Fund, and publish a synopsis in two (2) newspapers of general circulation;
To keep records and establish an online database of the members, operations, and investments of the National Health Insurance Fund and its services;
To establish an office, designate a focal person, and invest in the acceleration of PhilHealth’s healthcare and information campaign, delivery, and technology systems, particularly in far-flung areas;
To monitor compliance and mandate the national agencies and LGUs to to require proof of PhilHealth membership before doing business with a private individual or group,independent pharmacies and retail drug outlets;
To impose interest and/or surcharges of not exceeding three percent (3%) per month in case of delay in remittance of contributions regardless of the amount involved;

PhilHealth Vision, Mission, and Core Values

Vision

The agency operates with the goal of being the agency to provide all Filipinos, particularly the PhilHealth members, with the protection of subsidized health care service.

“Bawat Filipino, Miyembro, Bawat Miyembro, Protektado, Kalusugan ng Lahat, Segurado”

Mission

The agency’s objective is and will always be to offer quality healthcare services for all.

“Benepisyong Pangkalusugang Sapat at De-kalidad para sa Lahat”

Core Values

The agency lives by the the following core values:

Integrity
Innovation
Immediate Service
Heartfelt Service
Concern
Rightful Service
Community Ties

PhilHealth Benefits for Members

As an agency, one of the main objectives of PhilHealth is to ensure that all Filipinos have access to quality health care. To achieve this, they offer a number of comprehensive health care services—from the very basic primary care to even the most catastrophic packages—to the members and their beneficiaries. These also include provision for health insurance coverage of indigent Filipinos, expansion of the coverage of pre-existing conditions, and establishment of a risk equalization fund.

Some of these benefits include:

Inpatient Benefits

Inpatient benefits refer to the benefits deducted to the total bill of the members whose medical conditions are treated in accredited Health Care Institution (HCI). The case rate amount is inclusive of hospital charges as well as the professional fees of attending physicians.

Outpatient Benefits

Outpatient benefits for PhilHealth members include payment for the following procedures:

Day Surgeries (Ambulatory Or Outpatient Surgeries) including elective (Non-Emergency) surgical procedures ranging from minor to major operations, where patients are safely sent home within the same day for post-operative care.
Multiple radiotherapy procedures amounting to Php2,000.00 per session (for cobalt radiotherapy) and Php3,000.00 (for linear accelerator) for a maximum of 45-day benefit limit.
Multiple sessions of hemodialysis procedures amounting to Php2,600.00 for both inpatient and outpatient procedures, including emergency dialysis procedures for acute renal failure within a maximum of 90-day benefit limit.
Outpatient blood transfusion for a 45-day limit amounting to Php3,640.00 per case rate for up to second case rate or equivalent to one day or one session of transfusion of any blood or blood product, regardless of the number of bags transfused.

Z Benefits

Under PhilHealth’s Z Benefits, members are entitled to the following support:

Up to Php500,000.00 for those diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic or Lymphoblastic Leukemia, except for those with mature B-cell ALL or Burkitt leukemia
Php100,000.00 for those with stage 0 to IIIA Breast Cancer
Up to Php100,000.00 for those diagnosed with low to intermediate risk Prostate Cancer, provided that the kember does not have uncontrolled co-morbid conditions
Up to Php600,000.00 for those with low risk end-stage renal disease eligible for kidney transplantation, provided that they satisfy the following conditions:
- Has an irreversible renal disease that has been progressive for over 6 – 12 months
- Has a measured (nuclear scan) glomerular filtration rate, 24-hour urine creatinine clearance or calculated glomerular filtration rate of
  - less than 20 ml/min/1.73m2 in diabetics
  - less than 15 ml/min / 1.73m2 in patients with non-diabetic renal disease
- Has past Panel Reactive Antibody (PRA) of less than or equal to 20%
- Has not had any previous solid organ transplant
- Does not have any donor-specific antibody (DSA)
- Has at least 1 HLA-DR match
- Has no previous history of cancer (except basal cell skin cancer)
- Is HIV negative
- Is Hepatitis B surface antigen negative
- Is Hepatitis C antibody negative
- Does not have any of the following:
  - Congestive heart failure Class 3-4
  - Liver cirrhosis (findings of small liver with coarse granular/heterogenous echo pattern with signs of portal hypertension)
  - Chronic lung disease requiring oxygen, etc)
  - Hemi-paralysis because of stroke
  - Leg amputation because of peripheral vascular disease or diabetes
  - History of mental retardation such that informed consent cannot be made
  - History of substance abuse for at least 6 months prior to the start of transplant work-up.
- Can maintain anti-rejection medicines for the next three (3) years.

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Related

PhilHealth members are also qualified to enjoy these benefits:

For patients diagnosed with malaria: Up to Php600.00 to pay for Outpatient Malaria Package, including:
- Diagnostic malaria smears and other laboratory procedures;
- Drugs and medicines
- Consultation services
- Patient education & counseling
For HIV-AIDS patients confirmed by STD/AIDS Central Cooperative Laboratory (SACCL) or Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM): Up to Php30,000.00 per year or Php7,500.00 per quarter for Outpatient HIV-AIDS Package
For adults and children with TB cases that are susceptible to 1st line anti-TB drugs: Php4,000.00 to be spent for Directly-Observed Treatment Short-course (DOTS) Package, Php2,500.00 (Intensive phase), Php1,500.00 (Maintenance Phase) of Outpatient Anti-Tuberculosis Treatment through P4,000
For vasectomy procedures including non-scalpel vasectomy ligation or transection of fallopian tube (s), abdominal or vaginal approach: Up to Php4,000.00 for voluntary Surgical Contraception Procedures
Up to Php3,000.00 for Animal Bite Treatment Package to cover for Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) services which includes the following:
- Rabies vaccine
- Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG)
- Local wound care
- Tetanus toxoid and anti-tetanus serum (ATS)
- Antibiotics
- Supplies such as, but not limited to, syringes, cotton, alcohol and other antiseptics

PhilHealth Services Online

Some services available on the PhilHealth website include:

Member Registration Portal

This portal allows PhilHealth members to register and login to their PhilHealth account to check on the accuracy of their membership details on the site database.

Electronic Group Enrollment System

Through this service platform, employers, agencies, or other organized groups get the facilities they need to complete employee registration and billing.

Case Rates Search

Through this service, members can get information on PhilHealth’s benefit packages.

Claims Eligibility Checking

This service allows healthcare service providers to ascertain the benefit eligibility of members.

Electronic Premium Remittance System

Through this, employers can remit their premium contributions online.

Electronic Collection Reporting System

This platform enables PhilHealth-accredited collecting agents to submit their daily RF2 reports online.

Health Care Institutions Database

This database shows the complete list of all PhilHealth-accredited HCIs along with their accreditation status.

PhilHealth Registration Procedures

If you are not a member yet and it is your first time securing a PhilHealth Number, there are three different ways of doing so:

Through Online Registration

Visit the PhilHealth online registration facility.
Click Proceed and tick the check box to agree to the Terms and Conditions.
Click Accept.
Key in your personal information, contact details, dependents, your membership category, and PhilHealth Employer Number or PEN (which employed members can obtain from their employer/HR department) in the online registration form.
Upload the PhilHealth registration requirements and wait for the email with the PhilHealth verification link.
Click the verification link and complete the registration process.
You should receive another email with your PhilHealth transaction number. Note that this is not your official PhilHealth number. You will receive your PhilHealth number in a separate email after one (1) to three (3) weeks.
Once you’ve received your PhilHealth number, you can already start paying for your contributions to become eligible for PhilHealth benefits.

Through Registration via Email Request

If the online registration facility is not available, you may also register for a PhilHealth number by making an email request. To do it, you may follow these steps:

Download the PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF) from downloadable forms on the official PhilHealth website.
- Simply select downloads from the main menu.
- Choose Forms.
- Under Membership, click the download link for the PMRF.
Print out the form and manually fill it out with your personal information. Note that PhilHealth won’t accept electronically signed forms.
Scan the duly accomplished form and send it in PDF or JPEG format together with a scanned copy or photo of your valid ID.
Use this as the email subject line: Register<space>Name<space>City/Province, Region
Wait for PhilHealth to reply with your new PhilHealth number.

Through Manual Registration

For local employees and sea-based OFWs

Fill out two copies of the PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF).
Submit the completed forms to the HR department of your company or manning agency.
Once your application has been processed, you will be issued your Member Data Record (MDR) and PhilHealth ID, both of which will contain your PhilHealth number.

For employers

Visit the nearest PhilHealth branch and submit the requirements for employee registration.
Once your application has been processed, you’ll be issued your PhilHealth Employer Number (PEN) as well as the MDR/s and PhilHealth number/s of your employee/s.

For sponsored members

If you and your family are listed as NHTS (National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction), visit your city or municipal DSWD office to get a certification.
Submit this certificate to the nearest PhilHealth branch along with your valid ID.
Once submitted, you will be enrolled as an indigent member of PhilHealth.
Once enrolled, you may view your PhilHealth number through the MDR or the PhilHealth ID that will be given to you.
Note that if your family is not listed as NHTS, you may still visit the barangay office to request for the sponsored PhilHealth membership. If you are qualified, you’ll be enrolled under the Sponsored Program and issued a PhilHealth ID containing your PhilHealth number.

For voluntary members

Prepare the PhilHealth registration requirement including the PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF) and valid ID.
After completing the PhilHealth registration requirements, submit them to any of the following offices:
- PhilHealth Regional Office (PRO)
- Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO)
- PhilHealth Express outlet in select malls,
- iRemit branch in the host country (if you’re an OFW)
- Ventaja branch in your host county (if you’re an OFW),
- Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) (if you’re a senior citizen)
- PRA Head Office (if you’re a foreign retiree)
Pay your PhilHealth contribution.
Submit the Official Receipt.
Once registration is successful, you’ll be issued your MDR and PhilHealth ID containing your PhilHealth number.

Video: How to Create a PhilHealth Account

For a quick guide on how to get a PhilHealth account online, you may follow along while you watch this video from Youtube:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions and answer about PhilHealth:

1. What if I am no longer paying PhilHealth? Can I still avail of the PhilHealth benefits?

Yes. PhilHealth allows retroactive contribution payment if these two conditions are met:

You must have paid nine consecutive monthly payments before the unpaid months.
Pay the underpaid months back in full within one month or prior to hospitalization.

If these options don’t apply, and you were separated from your previous employer, you may check about how to update your paid PhilHealth membership so you can become a sponsored PhilHealth member.

2. Is it possible to use my husband’s PhilHealth for maternity leave?

Yes. If you have legal documents to present, then as husband’s legal dependents, you and your child are eligible for PhilHealth benefits, maternity benefits included.

3. How can I update my PhilHealth if I am now married?

Simply update your status by following these steps:

Download the Member Registration Form for PhilHealth or (PMRF).
Accomplish the PMRF as needed.
Send the completed PMRF to the nearest PhilHealth office.
Wait for the amended Member Data Record (MDR) to be printed.

4. Can I retrieve or verify my PhilHealth number if it gets lost or forgotten?

Yes. In fact, there are many ways to do so. Here are some of them along with the procedures for doing so.

Via the PhilHealth Corporate Action Center Hotline

Prepare your TIN or SSS number and call (02) 8441-7442 if you’re calling from a landline outside Metro Manila. If you are calling from Metro Manila, simply dial 8441-7442. On the other hand, those who are calling from a mobile phone can dial 2-8441-7442.
When your call gets through, simply tell the agent that you need to know your existing PhilHealth number.
Provide your full name, birthdate, and TIN/SSS number to verify your identity and once your identity is verified, the agent will give you your PhilHealth number.

Note: This is probably the best and easiest way to retrieve your PhilHealth number. You may contact the PhilHealth call center hotline anytime from Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 5pm.

Via PhilHealth’s Corporate Action Center callback channel

Aside from calling the hotline above, you can also reach out to PhilHealth’s Corporate Action Center through its callback channel.

Type PHIC callback PIN VERIF<space>Your mobile number or Metro Manila landline<space>Details of your concern (e.g., PHIC callback 09889898899 I want to know my PhilHealth number).
Send it to 0921-630-0009.
Wait for a PhilHealth representative to call you back within 48 hours (available only during office hours, and weekdays).

Via Your PhilHealth ID or Company ID

You may also find your PhilHealth number on the topmost portion of the PhilHealth ID issued to you. If you don’t have an ID yet, you might find your PhilHealth number on your company ID, along with your tax identification (TIN), SSS, and Pag-IBIG numbers.

Through Your Employer/HR Department

The HR department of your company, whether it is a private corporation or a government office, will always have a record of all the employees’ information, which includes the PhilHealth numbers. You may simply contact or visit the HR of your present or past employer to request for your PhilHealth number.

Via Email Inquiry

The PhilHealth number online inquiry service is available to all members.

Simply email a request with your complete name and birthdate.
Attach an image of your valid ID, along with your personal information so PhilHealth can confirm your identity.
Wait for the emailed response from PhilHealth.

5. Does PhilHealth accept walk-in membership applications?

Yes. If you do not have an Internet connection, if you can’t apply online for any reason, or if you have not received your PIN even after sending your registration application via email, you may opt to apply for PhilHealth membership manually, by visiting any of the following offices:

PhilHealth Regional Office (PRO)
Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO)
PhilHealth Express outlet in select malls,
iRemit branch in the host country (if you’re an OFW)
Ventaja branch in your host county (if you’re an OFW),
Office for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) (if you’re a senior citizen)
PRA Head Office (if you’re a foreign retiree)

Do take note that the process will depend on the type of membership you are availing of.

Summary

Getting sick or hospitalized isn’t always something that you can prepare for. Unfortunately, it almost always affects not only yours but also your family. More than the emotional strain caused by getting hospitalized for any reason, the financial effect isn’t something that can be ignored. It is for this very reason that the Philippine government set up the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth)—a government office that offers mandatory health insurance coverage to all Filipinos so they may have access to affordable, acceptable, available, and accessible health care and financial support in times of need.

Contact Information

In case you have inquiries about PhilHealth and all the benefits attached to it, you may reach out to:

Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Main Office

Office Address: Citystate Centre, 709 Shaw Boulevard, Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines

E-mail address: actioncenter@philhealth.gov.ph / ofp@philhealth.gov.ph.

Telephone Number: (02) 637-9999 / +63 2 8441 7442

Website: http://www.philhealth.gov.ph

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PhilHealthOfficial

Callback Channel: 0917-898-7442 (PHIC)

Text “PHICcallback [space] Mobile No. or Metro Manila landline [space]

details of your concern” and we will call you during office hours, weekdays only.

(Callback requests will expire after 72 hours.)

Call Center Hotline: 84417442 (PHIC)

What is POEA? Philippine Overseas Employment Administration

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is a government agency in the Philippine executive department created to promote and monitor the development of Filipino human resources overseas. It is managed by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and was created to offer services including provisions for employment opportunities, placement assistance, training, and follow-up services for both employers and employees in various overseas locations.

Also Read: POEA E Registration DMW eReg Online Login Portal

Since its creation 40 years ago, the POEA as an agency has been carrying out numerous functions related to its mandate. It also consolidated the responsibilities of a few other agencies through the years—from the combination of the functions of the Overseas Employment Development Board (OEDB), the National Seamen Board (NSB), and the Bureau of Employment Service (BES) to the integration of the services of seven different offices into a single Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). As an executive agency, the POEA has grown by leaps and bounds in terms of coverage, functions, and core responsibilities. So, in this article, we summed up all these details along with the goals and services that the POEA offers.

What is POEA

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is a government agency under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). It was designed to provide various employment opportunities for Filipinos worldwide. Its sole purpose: To promote, strengthen, and regulate the Philippine government’s overseas employment and worker protection programs for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

As more Filipinos continue to seek new opportunities in foreign countries resulting in increased international revenues, the Philippine government deemed it necessary to protect the overseas workforce, which is the main reason for the existence of POEA. As a regulating body, it serves as the go-to agency essential in checking for illegal recruiters. Not only does it help candidates avoid becoming a victim of illegal recruitment, it also ensures that aspiring OFWs leave the country with proper documentation and ample protection while working abroad.

POEA Mandate

As a government agency, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is mandated by the law to manage the Philippines’ overseas employment development and regulatory programs.

History and Legal Basis

POEA’s story started on May 1, 1982, when Executive Order (EO) No. 797 merged the functions of three different departments—Overseas Employment Development Board, the National Seamen Board, and the Bureau of Employment Services—into one. In 1987, EO No. 247 enhanced the scope of functions and power that the POEA holds to improve its efficacy as a department. By 1995, the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995 (RA No. 8042) further improved the policies concerning the OFWs such that their families and dependents are equally protected. The POEA’s regulatory functions were also strengthened in 2007, thanks to the provisions of the Republic Act No. 9422. It wasn’t until 2021 when the Republic Act. No. 11641 reorganized the department along with seven others, creating the Department of Migrant Workers, and elevating POEA as the executive department that it is now.

The reorganization merged the following offices into a single Department of Migrant Workers (DMW):

Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)

Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs (OUMWA) of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)

Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO)

International Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB)

National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO)

National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) of the DOLE.

Overseas Workers Welfare Administration from DOLE (attached agency)

POEA Mission

POEA defines its core objectives as a premiere governing agency in charge of protection and reintegration of OFWs in Philippine society. To achieve these objectives, POEA strives to connect the world by forging partnerships with all stakeholders, resulting in generation and preservation of decent employment opportunities for migrant Filipino workers.

POEA Vision

The agency desires for excellent governance to produce world-class Filipino migrant workers for overseas deployment.

Core Functions and Responsibilities

The core functions and associated responsibilities of POEA include:

Industry Regulation

As an agency, POEA is in charge of setting up labor standards, issuing licenses to engage, operate, and man overseas recruitment agencies and ship manning companies, monitoring job vacancies, and implementing incentives and penalty systems. Along with these, the POEA also hears, ajudicates, arbitrates, and imposes penalties on cases involving the non-monetary violations committed by the agencies and the rest of the stakeholders.

Employment Facilitation

POEA is also tasked with employment facilitation, which includes registration, accreditation, and approval of foreign principals and employers, creation and maintenance of workers’ registry, processing and evaluation of contracts, dispatch of technical marketing missions, strengthening of linkages with education and training sector, enforcement of policy on skills competencies deployment of workers, and formation of intercountry linkage via coordination with host governments.

Worker’s Protection

In an effort to protect the Filipino workers, POEA also offers educational training, anti-illegal recruitment, pre-employment, and pre-deployment orientation-seminars. They also offer preventive and remedial technical and legal assistance where needed, as well as on-site gender-sensitive programs, business and organizational networks, and repatriation assistance.

General Administration and Support Services

POEA also offers general administration and support services including Human Resources development, Property and Supplies Management, Financial Management, Information and Communication Technology, Plans and Policy development, and Quality Management Systems in relation to overseas employment development and regulation.

Quality Statement

As an agency, POEA abides by the following quality statements in carrying out its mandate to serve the Filipino people:

Providing effective and efficient services.

Operating within the requirement and standards governing overseas employment

Empowering our human resources

Assuring continual improvement using ISO 9001:2015

Common Services Available at the POEA Office

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) offers services categorized as OFW services and Licensed Recruitment Agency (LRA) services.

Here are some of them:

OFW Services

Registration of Land Based Applicants

This is the mandatory registration required from all land based applicants for overseas employment, facilitated by POEA.

Registration of Seafarers

This mandatory online registry is made available by POEA to all Filipino seafarers in lieu of the Seafarers Registration Certificates (SRC).

Documentation of Direct Hire Professionals and Skilled Workers

This refers to the verification and documentation of professional workers being directly hired in the Philippines.

Documentation of Direct Hire Household Service Workers

This refers to the verification and documentation of household service workers (HSWs) being directly hired in the Philippines.

Documentation of Government Hired Workers

This refers to the verification and documentation of government-hired workers being directly hired in the Philippines.

Documentation of Workers-On-Leave (Balik-Manggagawa)

Balik Manggagawa or returning workers are OFWs who have finished their employment contract and wish to return to work with the same employer. They need their documents in order and this process is facilitated at POEA.

Verification/ Certification of OFW Records

POEA is also in-charge of the verification and certification of OFW Records, including the authentication of copies generated from actual records, digital image and/or computer-generated records from the DMW (formerly POEA) database.

Verification of License of Agencies and Job orders

The Verification of an agency’s License and Job Orders are online services offered by the POEA to ensure that the agency is legitimate and the job offer and the job order you’re getting is approved and available.

Legal Assistance

POEA also offers legal support to its patrons in the event that the need for one arises. Along with this, they offer consultation, authentication, and evaluation services related to employment contracts and the employment terms itself.

Filing/Docketing of Cases

Victims of illegal recruitment and related cases may also file or docket a report directly with POEA.

LRA Services

Issuance of New License of Recruitment Agencies

POEA is also tasked with issuing new licenses including provisional licenses with a limited validity period of two (2) years.

Renewal of License of Recruitment Agencies

The POEA also manages the renewal of the provisional licenses issued to the recruitment agencies.

Registration/ Accreditation of Land Based Principals/ Employers

The registration and accreditation of authority to a foreign employer /principal to recruit and to hire land based Filipino workers through a licensed recruitment agency also go through the POEA.

Registration/ Accreditation of Seabased Principals/ Employers and Enrollment of Ships

The registration and accreditation of authority to a foreign employer /principal to recruit and to hire sea based Filipino workers through a licensed recruitment agency also go through the POEA.

Documentation of Landbased Agency-Hired Workers

This refers to the verification of the documentation of land-based workers hired via licensed recruitment agencies in the Philippines.

Documentation of Agency-Hired Seafarers

This refers to the verification of the documentation of sea-based workers hired via licensed recruitment agencies in the Philippines.

Issuance of Job Fair Authority (JFA)

POEA also regulates the issuance of the authority to conduct Job Fair.

Issuance of Special Recruitment Authority (SRA) and Letter of Acknowledgment (LOA)

The Special Recruitment Authority (SRA) and the Letter of Authority (LOA) are special recruitment documents given to licensed agencies by the POEA so they can engage in recruitment activities in the Philippines.

Online Services

They also offer the following services online, via the website:

Balik-Manggagawa Online Processing System – Overseas Employment Certificate

Online Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS)

Registration for Seafarers

Verification of Status of Recruitment Agencies

OFW Record Online Appointment

Manpower Registry (e-Registration)

Verification of Agency’s Job Orders

SRA/LOA Online Application System

Adjudication Cases Monitor

Video: POEA Government Agency Services Guide

If you want to learn more about POEA, you may check out this video about the agency’s programs and services, posted by the Department of Labor and Employment-IPS YouTube channel:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most common questions and answers about the POEA agency:

1. What is POEA?

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is the government agency in charge of overseeing and regulating international recruitment agencies in the Philippines to ensure that all employment opportunities offered to Filipino workers in other countries are legitimate. Their main goal is to ensure the protection and well-being of all candidates, particularly the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), from illegal recruiters and abusive employers by creating and enforcing regulatory policies that promote the best interests of the migrant workers..

2. What are the benefits of POEA?

POEA offers services meant to help safeguard and protect the well-being of OFWs and aspiring OFWs. The agency itself ensures that OFWs obtain legal workabroad status by making sure they get the correct papers before leaving the country to work. POEA also connects the stakeholder to the world by facilitating the generation and preservation of decent overseas jobs for Filipino migrant workers and advocating for their smooth integration in the workplace and seamless reintegration into Philippine society when they return.

3. What is the purpose of POEA?

POEA is a government agency in the Philippines created solely to foster global organization by assisting in the creation and preservation of quality jobs for migrant Filipino workers. It was also tasked with the regulation of recruitment agencies and their activities as well as the OFW protection and easy reintegration into Philippine society.

4. Are POEA and OWWA the same?

No. POEA is where recruitment, employment, deployment, and evaluation of employment contracts are processed. Once the contracts are processed, this is the time that an OFW becomes a mandatory member of the Overseas Workers Welfare Association (OWWA). Though both have something to do with the protection of OFWs, OWWA is a membership agency that also offers benefits and programs to the OFW dependents in exchange for a US$25 two-year membership fee.

5. How does the POEA help and protect OFWs?

Unlike OWWA which is mostly about protection and support of the OFWs in times of emergency or other needs, POEA’s protection is mostly preventive. POEA ensures that OFWs will not fall victim to illegal recruiters and unfavorable employment contracts through the enforcement of regulatory policies.

6. Is it possible for me to apply for or avail multiple POEA programs and services?

Yes, it is possible to apply for and avail multiple POEA programs and services, provided that the program doesn’t restrict availability to a single service or program.

7. Does POEA assist OFWs?

Yes. POEA offers assistance to OFWs via the programs offered by its attached agency, the OWWA. Through OWWA, the agency provides a variety of services and benefits that OFWs can take advantage of in different types of situations.

8. What is the process for applying for jobs at POEA?

To apply for jobs with POEA, you may check and visit the POEA website or their offices closest to you.

9. What is the POEA e-Registration for?

The POEA e-Registration System records information of workers who work or plan to work overseas. The registration is done online, through an online platform managed by POEA. It is essential to getting a job overseas and is mandated by the Philippine government as a requirement for all OFWs prior to their exit. Upon registration, applicants will receive a registration number which will be necessary when they apply for an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC).

10. Can I work abroad without an OEC?

No. As per the implementing rules and regulations of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), all overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are required to successfully secure an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) when departing for, or returning to their work overseas. Otherwise, they may be prevented from leaving the country. The OEC is a document that provides evidence that the Philippines government is allowing the Filipino worker to migrate, so without which, the Filipino worker will not be allowed to leave the Philippines.

Summary

POEA is the premiere government agency in charge of overseeing and regulating all recruitment agencies and their activities in the Philippines. As an agency, POEA’s protection guarantees that all employment opportunities offered to Filipinos who wish to work in foreign countries are legitimate. Their principal goal is to safeguard all candidates and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and help them avoid falling victim to illegal recruiters and employers through the policies they enforce.

POEA, as an agency, dates back to 1982. It’s creation started as a merging of the functions of three different departments. It has since evolved until its most recent reorganization resulted in the integration of seven different agencies which created the new and specialized Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). Regardless of how the agency evolved, the mandate remains the same: To develop the country’s overseas manpower while protecting the workers through creation of policies that regulate recruitment activities and licensing and operation of recruitment firms.

Contact Information

In case you have questions or concerns regarding POEA or its programs and services, please feel free to contact them at:

POEA Main Office
Office Address: Blas F. Ople Building, Ortigas Avenue, corner Epifanio de los Santos Ave, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila
Telephone Number: 8-722-11-44 / 8-722-11-55
E-mail address: connect@poea.gov.ph
POEA Website: www.poea.gov.ph
POEA Facebook Page: facebook.com/poea.gov.ph
POEA Twitter: https://twitter.com/poeanews

OWWA Loans for OFWs and Seafarers and How to Apply for Each

Since it launched in 1977, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), with its offices in 27 countries, has been all about lending a hand to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs)—land-based or sea-based—through their numerous programs and services. They also offer loans meant to help OFWs establish businesses and generate more income. After all, being an OFW or a seafarer isn’t forever and being prepared for such a time when they would have to stop working or return to the country is also yet another form of being responsible.

Also Read: What are the OWWA Social Benefits?

As an agency created to support the OFWs and their families, OWWA encourages entrepreneurship among its members by offering funding through safe and reliable loan programs. These loans were meant to give back and help OFWs have a steady income and build opportunities for their community, if and when they decide to return to the country for good. So, if you are an OWWA member with a business project that needs short-term or long-term funding, then read until the end of this guide to learn more about the OWWA loans for OFWs and seafarers.

Table of Contents

List of OWWA Loans for OFWs and Seafarers

OWWA has always been about providing aid to our modern-day heroes, the OFWs. One of the ways they do so is by offering a loan program for their members, regardless if they work on land or at sea. The OWWA loan program is based on the P2-billion reintegration initiative, which comes as part of the perks of being an OWWA member.

Some of the available OWWA loans for OFWs and seafarers include:

1. Overseas Filipino Workers – Enterprise Development and Loan Program (OFW-EDLP)

The Overseas Filipino Workers – Enterprise Development and Loan Program (OFW-EDLP), is an OWWA loan program formerly known as the OFW-Reintegration Program (ORP). It is a collaborative enterprise development intervention program and a loan facility managed by OWWA, along with the Landbank of the Philippines (LBP), and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP). It was designed to help OFWs with funds that will provide them with some leverage and guidance on starting their own businesses in the Philippines.

Benefits

The OWWA-EDLP loan program offers the following benefits:

Credit ranging from Php 100,000.00 to Php 2,000,000.00 (for single proprietors) and Php 100,000.00 to Php 5,000,000.00 (for group loans) to cover for the business’ working capital or fixed asset acquisition.

Short- and long-term loan repayment options

Equity amounting to 20% of the Total Project Cost (TPC)

Fixed interest rate of 7.5% per annum

Two-year grace period for repayment

It is also packaged with the Enhanced Entrepreneurial Development Training (EEDT) – a three-part mandatory training program that helps OFWs learn about finance, business management, and other business-oriented topics like business plan writing to help your business project grow.

The program’s loanable amount can be used for businesses related to:

Franchising

Rental

Construction

Service/Trading

Transportation

Agricultural and non-agricultural production

Contract tie-up with the country’s top 1000 corporations

Other new or existing viable projects

Qualifications

Now that you know about what OFW-EDLP is all about and you are thinking of availing the provisions of the loan program, then you first need to check if you are even eligible.

Listed below are the criteria that one must meet to even qualify to apply for this OWWA loan:

OWWA-certified OFWs (active or inactive)

Have completed the Enhanced Entrepreneurial Development Training (EEDT)

If the OFW is abroad:

If the OFW is married: He/she may be represented by his/her spouse.

If the OFW is single, separated, or widowed: He/she may be represented by his/her parents who are not more than 60 years old, or by his/her children who are at least 18 years old.

Requirements

If you are qualified and you wish to apply for the OFW-EDLP loan, then you must prepare and submit certain documentary requirements to process your application. The requirements include:

Proof of OWWA membership
- OWWA certification stating that you are an OWWA member.

If the OWWA member OFW is abroad: Special Power of Attorney (SPA) duly authenticated by the Philippine consul

Two (2) valid government-issued IDs

Passport

Seaman’s Book

Proof of Billing

Business documents
- Business proposal / feasibility study for the specific project that will generate revenue
- Registration Certificate from the DTI
- OFW applicant’s biodata
- Income tax return (ITR) for the last three years (if applicable)
- Financial statements filed with BIR for the last three years (if applicable)
- If applicable, the most recent interim financial statement
- Assets and Liabilities Statement
- Business/ Mayor’s permit, and
- Barangay certification from the barangay office with jurisdiction over the location of the business

Collateral documents for security of loan
- Real estate mortgage (REM)
- Chattel mortgage (CM)
- Mortgage-able project
- Assets (Machines or Equipment)
- Other assets of the borrower

OWWA certificate of attendance to prove that the borrower has completed EEDT

Application Procedures

Here’s how to apply for the OFW-EDLP loan:

If the interested OFW applicant is still abroad

Visit the Embassy at the host country to inquire and confirm your OWWA membership and get a referral to an assigned officer at the OWWA office in the Philippines

Upon arrival in the Philippines

Go to the OWWA Office and get a certification.

Visit any branch of the Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) and present the OWWA certification.

Attend the Enhanced Entrepreneurial Development Training (EEDT) and secure a certificate of attendance.

Prepare your business plan and other documentary requirements.

Submit all your requirements to Landbank and wait for the application to be reviewed and the business to be inspected (for existing business).

Upon loan approval, wait for LBP to release the funds.

2. Helping the Economy Recover thru OFW Enterprise Start-Ups (HEROES) Loan Program

The recent global health crisis has taken the world by surprise, resulting in unprecedented job and livelihood losses. As such, the governments have decided to step up in an effort to support the entrepreneurial nature of OFWs and seafarers who were affected by the crisis. One such effort resulted in the creation of the HEROES (Helping the Economy Recover thru OFW Enterprise Start-Ups) Loan Program.

The HEROES Loan Program is a component program of the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Pondo Para sa Pag-asenso (P3) Fund. It is managed by the Small Business Corporation (SB Corporation), a government-owned and government-controlled corporation (GOCC) with the purpose of helping land-based or sea-based OFWs with micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. Technically, it’s not an OWWA loan program, but it does require an active OWWA membership before a repatriated or displaced OFW or a seafarer can avail of its benefits and start a business.

Benefits

Under the HEROES Loan Program, OFWs may enjoy the following benefits:

A zero-interest, no collateral loan ranging from Php 10,000.00 to Php 100,000.00

Low service fees
- For 24-month loans: 6% service fee
- For 36-month loans (inclusive of a 12-month grace period): 8% service fee

A built-in 12-month grace period

Free business and marketing training, mentoring, and services

Qualifications

The HEROES Loan Program is available to all repatriated OFWs who satisfy the following criteria:

Land-based OFWs returning to the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Non-professional OFWs who have returned to the Philippines due to layoffs caused by COVID-19

Repatriated and returning land-based or sea-based OFWs who want to start their own business in the Philippines

Requirements

When applying for the HEROES Loan Program, the following documents are required:

One (1) valid government-issued photo ID

Scanned copy of passport information page

Completely filled out HEROES Loan Application Form

DTI Registration

OWWA certification confirming the repatriation of the OFW applicant

Audio-Visual Presentation (AVP) of the Business Plan

Certificate of Completion (COC) for an online training session for start-ups from the Philippine Trade and Training Center (PTTC)

Additional Requirements

Depending on the amount of loan, the following additional documents will also be required:

For Loans amounting to Php 10,000.00 to Php 50,000.00

DTI Registration

Video Business Pitch

For Loans amounting to Php 50,000.00 up to Php 100,000.00

SEC Registration

Municipal/Mayor’s Business Permit

Business Model Canvas

Application Procedures

If you are interested in the HEROES Loan program, then you may follow this guide:

Pre-register for the HEROES program by registering for the online PTTC training: http://bit.ly/HEROESRegistrationForm.

Key in the following information:
- Applicant’s name
- Age
- Gender
- Address
- Mobile number
- Passport number
- Email address
- Educational attainment
- Occupation as an OFW
- Return date to the Philippines

Complete the free 3-day online training at the Philippine Trade and Training Center (PTTC), the DTI training arm.

Prepare the requirements for submission.

Visit the link: https://brs.sbgfc.org.ph/heroes

Submit the requirements along with the application.

Submit additional requirements as needed by SB Corporation

OWWA Seafarers’ Loan

If you are curious about whether there is a loan exclusively for OWWA members working as seafarers, the short answer is no. OWWA’s loan programs are available to all active OWWA member OFWs, regardless of whether they are land-based or sea-based.

That said, all available OWWA loans are, in essence, also available to seafarers as they are to land-based OFWs. These loans can only be used for business projects, though OWWA also offers numerous financial assistance programs that cover for all other types of needs that both OFWs and seafarers may have. At this time, however, there are no OWWA loans exclusively designed for seafarers and mariners abroad.

OWWA Personal Loans

At this time, OWWA also doesn’t offerany personal loans. Instead, there are OWWA cash grants meant to support member OFWs the same way that personal loans do—to be used for livelihood or business development, welfare, social, and accidental support, and even funeral gratuities, and special initiative—minus the need for repayment. If you are hell-bent on securing a personal loan, then you’d best try elsewhere because OWWA doesn’t offer one.

OWWA Salary Loans

Just like how OWWA does not offer a personal loan, OWWA also doesn’t give out salary loans. OWWA offers numerous programs that may help resolve the same problems you will resolve by taking out salary loans, but these programs mostly offer one-time assistance that don’t require payments later on. If you need to secure a salary loan, then go visit other government agencies like Social Security System (SSS) and Pag-IBIG instead.

OWWA Housing Loans

Sure, being an OFW usually starts with the dream of building a home. Unfortunately, as important as housing is to OFWs, it is something that OWWA doesn’t have any loan programs for. To put it bluntly, OWWA does not offer any housing loan or assistance program for Filipino workers overseas.

If you are an OFW and you are in the market for housing programs, assistance, or loans, you can check out Pag-IBIG or bank financing as available options. Some government agencies like the SSS and the National Housing Authority (NHA) also have programs that offer affordable housing. There are also private offerings that you can check, if you are so interested.

Important Reminders

Before applying for any OWWA Loan Programs, here are a few important reminders to keep in mind:

The HEROES Loan application process starts when the OFW pre-registers for the free online training conducted by the Philippines Trade Training Center (PTTC).

The OWWA loan program funds are to be used solely to start or maintain businesses or entrepreneurial activities.

Current and prospective borrowers are expected to repay the HEROES loan on time in accordance with the amortization plan, or SB Corporation will take legal action.

No other government reintegration program offers interest-free and collateral-free livelihood loans aside from OWWA’s HEROES Loan Program.

Applicants must first complete the free PTTC entrepreneurship seminar or the EEDT program before they can apply for any of the OWWA loans.

Loan applicants, whether land-based or sea-based, are required to be active OWWA members with complete documentary requirements.

OWWA currently doesn’t offer any other loan programs at the moment.

Video: How to Avail an OWWA Business Loan for OFWs

To learn more about how to secure an OWWA Business Loan for OFWs, land-based or sea-based, then you would want to watch this Youtube video from Mommy Thoughts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For further assistance, you may check the following questions and answers about getting an OWWA loan as an OFW or a seaman:

1. Does OFW-EDLP require a collateral?

Yes. You will need to present the following collateral documents for security of loan:

Real estate mortgage (REM)

Chattel mortgage (CM)

Mortgage-able project

Assets (Machines or Equipment)

Other assets of the borrower

2. Do the OWWA loans give a grace period?

Yes, the OFW-EDLP includes a 2-year grace period whereas the HEROES Loan Program comes with a built-in 12-month grace period.

3. Can I still get a loan from OWWA if my business was already established?

Yes. You may still apply for the OWWA loans to cover for business expansion expenses or acquisition of fixed assets even if the business is already established and operational.

4. Where can I get a business plan?

You may write your own business plan using what you have learned from the business training and with the help of your mentors or you may also hire a professional to help you construct a better business plan that will help you get your loan approved by the bank.

5. What is the best OWWA loan for repatriated OFWs?

It depends on the purpose of the loan, but if you want a zero-interest, no collateral loan, then you want to apply for the HEROES Loan Program.

6. Are there any chances of getting declined?

Yes. Applications for the OWWA loan programs are not guaranteed. Just like any other loan program, there is a possibility of getting rejected. To avoid rejection, make sure you are eligible for the program and that you submit the complete requirements for your application to get approved.

7. What if I wasn’t able to pay the loan?

If your chosen loan required collateral, they will seize those assets as collateral for your unpaid loans. If you availed the loan via the no-collateral HEROES Loan Program, the SB Corporation may file a legal case.

8. What are the businesses that would qualify for the OFW-EDLP loan?

Applicants who are engaged in the following micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises may apply for the OWWA loan program:

Franchising business;

Rental business;

Construction business;

Service/Trading business;

Transportation service;

Agricultural and non-agricultural production;

Contract tie-up with the country’s top 1000 corporations; and

Other viable projects, whether existing or new.

9. What are the requirements in applying for the OWWA loan?

To qualify for the OFW-EDLP, you need the following:

Proof of OWWA membership
- OWWA certification stating that you are an OWWA member.

If the OWWA member OFW is abroad: Special Power of Attorney (SPA) duly authenticated by the Philippine consul

Two (2) valid government-issued IDs

Passport

Seaman’s Book

Proof of Billing

Business documents
- Business proposal / feasibility study for the specific project that will generate revenue
- Registration Certificate from the DTI
- OFW applicant’s biodata
- Income tax return (ITR) for the last three years (if applicable)
- Financial statements filed with BIR for the last three years (if applicable)
- If applicable, the most recent interim financial statement
- Assets and Liabilities Statement
- Business/ Mayor’s permit, and
- Barangay certification from the barangay office with jurisdiction over the location of the business

Collateral documents for security of loan
- Real estate mortgage (REM)
- Chattel mortgage (CM)
- Mortgage-able project
- Assets (Machines or Equipment)
- Other assets of the borrower

OWWA certificate of attendance to prove that the borrower has completed EEDT

For the HEROES Loan, here are the list of requirements:

One (1) valid government-issued photo ID

Scanned copy of passport information page

Completely filled out HEROES Loan Application Form

DTI Registration

OWWA certification confirming the repatriation of the OFW applicant

Audio-Visual Presentation (AVP) of the Business Plan

Certificate of Completion (COC) for an online training session for start-ups from the Philippine Trade and Training Center (PTTC)

10. Can I apply for an OFW loan from OWWA even if I am not an active member?

No. Being an active member of OWWA is necessary in order to get an OFW loan. You may keep your OWWA membership active by paying US$25.00 to keep it valid for two (2) years. OWWA has also made it easier for you to apply for your membership via OWWA Mobile App.

11. Where can I learn more information about the OWWA Loan programs?

If you need more information about the OWWA Loans, you may contact OWWA or Land Bank of the Philippines through the following contact details:

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/

Land Bank of the Philippines:

Customer Hotline Number: +632 8 405 7000

Domestic Toll-Free Number: 1 800 10 405 7000

Email Address: customercare@mail.landbank.com

Summary

Contrary to popular belief, borrowing money isn’t always a negative thing. In fact, loans open up opportunities, not only for the lender, but also for the borrowers. It’s a lucrative industry that even government offices like OWWA, SSS, and Pag-IBIG offer loans in an effort to help their patrons and grow their funds at the same time.

The OWWA Loan Programs were created in an effort to support the OFWs and their families by encouraging entrepreneurship. The loan programs offer funds to help the OFWs create a steady income and to build opportunities for their community upon returning to the country for good.

Contact Information

For more information, you may reach out to OWWA via the following contact information:

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