OWWA

After working for so many years abroad, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) may have difficulties adjusting to life in the Philippines. OFWs planning to return to the country or are displaced due to distressful situations will require assistance to reintegrate as productive individuals. With that said, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers the Reintegration Program for OFWs to help them prepare mentally and financially to start their lives back in the country.

With the Reintegration Program of OWWA and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), OFWs will receive training and seminars to help them rebuild their lives and return to their families. The services under this program can assist returning OFWs in developing financial and entrepreneurial skills and obtaining job referrals and loans to start an enterprise. So if you’re wondering what services you can avail of this program, keep reading to learn more about Reintegration Program for OFWs.

What is Reintegration Program for OFWs?

The Reintegration Program consists of varying services made possible with the partnership of OWWA and DOLE’s Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO). This program reintroduced OFWs to the conventional Filipino society through social patterns and interventions to help them return productively to the community and their families.

In addition, it provides services and projects to OFWs and their families that can assist them in managing migration social costs, protecting them from forced repatriation impact. It also aims to help OFWs take advantage of their earnings from abroad thru developing businesses or being employed locally. Currently, the Reintegration Program consists of psycho-social and livelihood components.

Psycho-social Component

The psycho-social component involves capacity-building services that assist communities in coordinating and preserving OFW Family Circles (OFCs). Under this component, OFWs and their families can access services, such as family counseling, psycho-social counseling, stress debriefing, financial literacy, values formation, and capacity-building training.

Livelihood Component

On the contrary, the livelihood component consists of programs to socially prepare OFWs through livelihood or community projects intended to generate profit. The livelihood programs under this component can be accessed whether or not the OFW is still abroad and not an OWWA member, as per Director Roel Martin and the NRCO officer. It also covers lending business capital and skills training.

Reintegration Program Projects for OFWs

Here is the list of Reintegration Program projects OWWA and DOLE offer to OFWs and their families:

Psycho-social Services

Reintegration Preparedness On-site

• Entrepreneurial Development Training- intends to assist OFWs in turning their business ideas into reality. Under this training, OFWs will learn how to start and manage a successful business. Also, OWWA and NRCO will offer OFWs free training to prepare them individually and financially as they venture into business. It will take 1 to 3 days to complete, tackling business management, business planning, and the roles of entrepreneurs.
• Financial Literacy Training- isadministered for free to OFWs by OWWA and NRCO, educating them to be financially literate by helping them develop essential financial skills, such as budgeting, investing, and financial management. This training aims to assist returning OFWs in restoring and stabilizing their lives in the Philippines.
• Techno-Skills and Capacity Building- is essential training to assist returning OFWs in developing techno-skills required in the workplace. Capacity Building assists returning OFWs in enhancing and strengthening their abilities, skills, and knowledge to perform jobs efficiently and remain competitive. The training will take 1 to 3 days to complete.
• Value Formation Training- administered to returning OFWs to assist them in developing and enhancing their attitude and behavior and educate them on its importance.

Reintegration In-Country

• Business Counseling- is offered free to OFWs who require mentoring and assistance to develop a business. This service involves business consultation and guidance on productivity and OFWs with network support to maintain and broaden their business.
• Community Organizing- aims to enhance the well-being and social health of OFWs. It also aims to improve their function and become well-rounded individuals in their community.
• Job Referrals- are also given to OFWs returning to the Philippines for good and wishing to return to the workforce. This service assists returning OFWs with better employment opportunities or even getting employed in their chosen job.
• Skills and Entrepreneurship (OFW-RISE) Program- is another reintegration project for OFWs that open new livelihood and business opportunities. This program is made possible with the partnership of OWWA, the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and Coca-Cola Philippines.

Livelihood Services

Balik-Pinas, Balik-Hanapbuhay Program

The Balik-Pinas, Balik-Hanapbuhay Program is a livelihood assistance that aims to provide instant aid to returning OFWs, whether active or inactive OWWA members. This non-cash support is for OFWs displaced due to illegal recruitment, human trafficking, war/political conflicts, or policy reforms in the host country.

Balik-Pinay, Balik-Hanapbuhay Program

The Balik-Pinay, Balik-Hanapbuhay Program is a livelihood project for returning women OFWs. Through this program, they will receive livelihood skills training and starter kits to help them launch a business. Moreover, it prioritizes women OFWs distressed or displaced due to illegal recruitment, human trafficking, war/political conflicts, or policy reforms in the host country.

Financial Awareness Seminar (FAS) and Small Business Management Training (SBMT)

The Financial Awareness Seminar (FAS) and Small Business Management Training (SBMT) are beneficial programs for returning OFWs, which aim to educate them on financial literacy regarding overseas employment. Additionally, it encourages returning OFWs to put up a small business to be self-employed.

Livelihood Development Assistance Program (LDAP)

Apart from seminars, OWWA and DOLE also provide the Livelihood Development Assistance Program (LDAP) to help undocumented returning OFWs. It is livelihood assistance provided to undocumented OFWs returning to the country for good thru livelihood starter kits.

Education and Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP)

For OFWs with dependents who are still studying, the Education and Livelihood Assistance Program (ELAP) is insurance for your family. It’s a scholarship grant for qualified dependents of OFWs with active OWWA membership during their death. This program entitles one child of an OFW member (usually the 1st child) to a scholarship grant amounting to P5,000 for elementary, P8,000 for high school, and P10,000 for college. Furthermore, surviving legal spouses or parents of single OFWs will receive P15,000 livelihood assistance.

Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-unlad ng Samahang OFWs (Tulong PUSO)

The Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-unlad ng Samahang OFWs (Tulong PUSO) is a one-time grant that helps start, expand, and restore OFW organizations’ livelihood projects. It consists of raw materials, tools, equipment, and support services. Under Tulong PUSO, OFW organizations with over 51 members will receive assistance up to P1,000,000. But note that the amount may vary depending on the project requirement.

Enterprise Development and Loan Program (OFW-EDLP)

Previously known as OFW-Reintegration Program (ORP), the Overseas Filipino Workers – Enterprise Development and Loan Program (OFW-EDLP) is a partnership livelihood project between OWWA, the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), and the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP). This program enables OFWs and their families to develop business opportunities. Eligible borrowers can get referrals for business loans from P100,000 to P5,000,000, payable in five years with a 7.5% annual interest rate.

Eligible Borrowers

• OFWs who are OWWA certified on membership and finished the capacity-building training.

Eligible Projects

• Feasible projects belonging but not limited to the following fields: agri and non-agri production and marketing, construction, franchising, rental, service, trading, transportation
• Contract tie-up with the top 1,000 corporations
• For OFWs and their families- project proposals generating at least P10,000 net income

Loan Purpose

• Fixed Asset Acquisition
• Working Capital

Project Cost Sharing

• Borrower’s Equity- minimum of 20% of the Total Project Cost (TPC)
• Loan- maximum of 80% of TPC

Loan Amount

The minimum loan amount is P100,000 with the following loan ceilings:

• For single proprietorship- P2,000,000
• For partnership, cooperative, or corporation- P5,000,000 for a group of OFWs

Loan Repayment

• Short Term- one (1) year maximum
• Term Loan- depends on cash flow but not exceeding seven (7) years (inclusive of two years maximum grace period on principal)

Qualifications

• Active or inactive OWWA member
• Attended the Enhance Entrepreneurial Development Training

Also, the family members of OFWs still working overseas or planning to return to the country can present them. If married, the legal spouse can apply for the loan, while children at least 18 years old and parents who are not over 60 years old can represent single OFWs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Reintegration Project?

The Reintegration Program is a project of OWWA and DOLE with the primary goal of helping returning OFWs rebuild their lives in the Philippines. It includes varying programs and services that benefit OFWs and their families, from livelihood, loan, and scholarship grants. Thus, displaced OFWs and those planning to return from the Philippines for good can rebuild their lives with assistance.

What is the purpose of the Reintegration Program?

The Reintegration Program of OWWA and DOLE aims to help OFWs return to their families and communities as productive individuals after years of working abroad.

Summary

Overall, the services, training, and projects of OWWA and DOLE Reintegration Program for OFWs will benefit them and their families. These programs are essential for OFWs rebuilding their lives, helping them cope mentally and financially. The Reintegration Program also consists of livelihood projects that can help stabilize the lives of OFWs and their families. Aside from that, surviving dependents of OFWs will receive a scholarship grant from elementary to college. So if any of these programs may benefit you or someone you know, contact OWWA or NRCO for further assistance.

Contact Details

OWWA Central Office

Address: OWWA Center Building, F.B. Harrison St, Pasay, Metro Manila

Hotline: 1348

NCR Hotline: 09666250016

Reintegration Unit: 8834-0719

Website: https://owwa.gov.ph/

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

Email: owwacares@owwa.gov.ph

National Reintegration Center for OFWs

Address: Ground Floor, Blas F. Ople Development Center (Former OWWA Building) Corner Solana and Victoria Streets Intramuros, Manila

Hotline: 527-6184, 526-2633, 526-2392

Email: nrcoreintegration@gmail.com

Aside from livelihood and educational projects, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) can also avail of the OWWA Rebate Program. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers this program to OFWs who have been active OWWA members for at least ten (10) years, allowing them to rebate a percentage of their contributions. But how much and who qualifies for the OWWA rebate? Read on as we share how to apply for OWWA Rebate Program and other details, including the requirements.

Also Read: How to Verify Employment Contract for OFWs Abroad

The OWWA Rebate Program is in accordance with Section 54 of the Republic Act 10801 or OWWA Act, which states that OFWs who are active OWWA members for ten (10) years can get a specific rebate amount given they have not received any service or program from the agency. Furthermore, the OWWA Rebate Program portal was launched on September 1, 2019, aiming to help OFWs and their families through rebates that will vary based on the number of paid OWWA contributions.

What is OWWA Rebate Program?

The OWWA Rebate Program is an initiative to help OFWs and their qualified dependents through a percentage cashback of their OWWA contributions. It provides a specific rebate amount to eligible beneficiaries, given the OFW member did not receive any service, program, or benefit from OWWA. The rebate amount also depends on the number of OWWA contributions the OFW paid. In addition, the rebate amount of this program can be claimed by qualified dependents of deceased OFWs or donated to beneficiaries of the OWWA Tuloy-Aral Project (TAP).

Benefits

Under the OWWA Rebate Program, OFWs or their qualified dependents can receive a rebate amount ranging from P941.25 up to P13,177.50 based on the number of their contribution. The said amount depends on the agency’s commissioned actuarial study to determine the capacity of OWWA’s fund. As per OWWA’s database, P1 billion is allocated to around 556,000 beneficiaries of the OWWA Rebate Program, while another P2 billion is for the upcoming batch of qualified OFWs.

Below is the OWWA Rebate Program corresponding amount based on the number of contributions:

• 5 Contributions- P941.25
• 6 Contributions- P1,129.50
• 7 Contributions- P1,317.75
• 8 Contributions- P1,506
• 9 Contributions- P1,694.26
• 10 Contributions- P1,882.50
• 20 Contributions- P3,765
• 30 Contributions- P5,647.50
• 40 Contributions- P7,530
• 50 Contributions- P9,412.50
• 60 Contributions- P11,295
• 70 Contributions- P13,177.50

Also, note that the OWWA rebate is not a refund or cashback of the OWWA contributions. It only provides a percentage of OWWA contribution.

Qualifications

If you are wondering if you can apply for this program, here are the following qualified applicants for OWWA Rebate:

• OFWs with active OWWA membership for ten (10) years or more
• OWWA members with at least five (5) or more membership contributions
• OFWs or their families who did not receive any service, program, or benefit from OWWA
• Must be a legal beneficiary of deceased OFW who meets the above qualifications

Meanwhile, a family member of the OFW can process the OWWA Rebate given the following circumstances:

• If the qualified OFW is still abroad, apply online for OWWA Rebate Program to secure an appointment with OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO). Then, the authorized family member of the OFW in the Philippines can claim the OWWA rebate.
• A family member can also process the OWWA rebate if the qualified OFW is critically ill.

Remember, the OWWA Rebate Program applies to land-based and sea-based OFWs who meet the qualifications.

Requirements

For OFWs who are qualified for OWWA Rebate Program, here are the requirements to get the corresponding cashback:

• Membership ID for inquiry purposes
• One (1) valid government-issued
• Active bank account where OWWA can deposit the rebate amount

If the OFW is still abroad, the authorized family member should secure the following requirements to process the OWWA Rebate Program:

• Appointment code
• Authorization letter from the OFW
• One (1) valid ID of OFW and the authorized representative
• Proof of relationship with the OFW (such as Birth Certificate or Marriage Contract)

If the OFW is critically ill, the authorized family member must present the following:

• Appointment code
• Medical Certificate
• Authorization letter from the OFW
• One (1) valid ID of OFW and the authorized representative
• Proof of relationship with the OFW (such as Birth Certificate or Marriage Contract)

Also, don’t forget to bring the appointment code you receive via SMS during your visit to OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO).

How to Apply for OWWA Rebate as an OFW or Seaman

To apply for the OWWA Rebate Program, follow the steps below:

1. Go to the OWWA Rebate Portal at https://rebate.owwa.gov.ph/.
2. Fill out the required details on the online OWWA Rebate Verification Form. Also, provide an active Mobile Number to receive the appointment code.
3. Double-check the provided details and click the Inquire button.
4. On the next page, you will see the corresponding rebate amount if you qualify for the program.
5. Next, book an appointment with your preferred location, date, and time to claim the rebate. You will receive a confirmation via SMS containing the appointment code.
6. On the day of your appointment, visit your chosen OWWA RWO.
7. Present the appointment code and one (1) valid government-issued ID for verification.
8. Provide your bank account details, where OWWA can deposit the rebate amount.

Other Ways to Get OWWA Rebate Program

Apart from the online appointment, there are other ways to get or benefit from the OWWA Rebate Program. OFWs who still have a current employment contract abroad can claim the rebate amount when renewing their OWWA membership.

Moreover, you can donate the rebate amount to the beneficiaries of the OWWA Tuloy Aral Project (TAP), which is a program that aims to help less fortunate OFWs with the school expenses of their children and eligible beneficiaries.

Online OWWA Rebate Verification Form

You can fill out online the OWWA Rebate Verification Form thru this link: https://rebate.owwa.gov.ph/. Below is the screenshot of the online OWWA Rebate Verification Form:

Reminders for OWWA Rebate Program

Please take note of the following reminders for those who wish to apply for the OWWA Rebate Program:

• The OWWA Rebate Program only entitles qualified OFWs and their legal dependents to get a percentage cashback of their total contributions. It is not a refund of the full OWWA contributions.
• Qualified beneficiaries can only get a rebate given they have active OWWA membership for ten (10) years or more with at least five (5) membership contributions.
• The rebate amount is only available for OWWA members who did not receive any service, program or benefit from the agency.
• Qualified beneficiaries will also receive a varying rebate amount depending on the number of contributions.
• When applying for the program, OFWs should keep a copy of the appointment code sent via SMS for verification.
• The family member of qualified OFWs can process the OWWA Rebate, given the OWWA member is still abroad, suffering from an illness, or deceased.
• After claiming a rebate, OFWs can still avail of other OWWA services and programs in accordance with its policy and guidelines.
• For more details on OWWA Rebate Program, applicants may contact OWWA thru their hotline at 1348 or email them at rebate@owwa.gov.ph. Also, OFW Rebate Program Help Desks are available in all OWWA Regional Welfare Offices (RWOs) for inquiries.

Video: OWWA REBATE PORTAL AVAILABLE / PAANO MAKAKUHA NG REBATE SA OWWA

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

As discussed in the video, the OWWA Rebate Program online portal opened on September 2019. If it is not working, it is not allowed in the OFW’s host country and is only accessible in the Philippines. The said portal also serves as an appointment system and database for qualified OFWs, where they can validate if they qualify for the OWWA Rebate Program. Also, the OWWA Rebate is for OFWs with at least five (5) contributions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is OWWA Rebate Program?

The OWWA Rebate Program is a percentage cashback of OFWs’ total membership contribution. Under this program, qualified beneficiaries will receive a specific rebate amount depending on the number of their contributions. Most of all, the rebate can be claimed by OFWs renewing their OWWA membership or donated to the beneficiaries of the Tuloy Aral Project (TAP).

How to apply for OWWA Rebate Program?

To apply for OWWA Rebate Program, applicants should meet the qualifications of OWWA and secure the requirements. Next, book an appointment online thru the OWWA Rebate Portal. Select your preferred processing location, date, and time to claim the rebate. Then, present the requirements on the day of the appointment to claim your OWWA Rebate.

Who qualifies for OWWA Rebate Program?

Qualified beneficiaries of the OWWA Rebate Program are OFWs (both land-based and sea-based) with active OWWA membership for ten (10) years or have five (5) or more membership contributions. In addition, the OFW should not receive any service, program, or benefit from OWWA to qualify for the rebate. The legal beneficiaries of deceased OFWs can also apply for OWWA Rebate Program if the OWWA member meets the previous qualifications.

How much is OWWA Rebate?

The OWWA Rebate depends on the total number of contributions of the OFW. It ranges from P941.25 up to P13,177.50.

Summary

Through the OWWA Rebate Program, qualified OFWs and their legal dependents can enjoy a percentage rebate of the OWWA member total contributions. Although this program requires some documents, it is only for verification purposes.

The rebate amount is also beneficial in times of difficulty or to help the surviving families of deceased OFWs. Most importantly, it can be donated to help the beneficiaries of the Tuloy Aral Project (TAP).