Overseas Voters

OWWA Agency for OFWs: Overseas Workers Welfare Administration

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is a government agency in the Philippines that plays a crucial role in protecting and promoting the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). With millions of Filipinos working abroad, OWWA provides various programs and services to ensure the well-being of these modern-day heroes and their families.

OWWA is important to Pinoys abroad as it serves as their lifeline insurance to the government back home. It offers a wide range of services, including pre-departure orientation seminars, reintegration programs, and emergency repatriation assistance.

History and Mandate

OWWA was established in 1980 through Presidential Decree No. 1694 with the goal of safeguarding the interests of OFWs and their dependents. The agency formerly operated under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) but is now an attached agency of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in 2023. OWWA has been tasked with implementing policies, programs, and services that cater to the needs of OFWs.

After all, as a Filipino working abroad, it is much necessary to have an insurance program so that in times of crises, such as natural calamities, displacement due to war or political unrest, and other emergencies, OFWs can receive immediate assistance from the government. OWWA has been instrumental in providing this support to OFWs and their families.

OWWA Programs and Services

Social Welfare Services

OWWA provides social welfare services to OFWs and their families. These include health care assistance, livelihood and entrepreneurship development programs, education and training scholarships, and legal assistance.

Scholarship Training Programs

The agency also offers a scholarship program for the children of OFWs, ensuring that they have access to quality education. Scholarships are available for elementary, high school, and college students. OWWA also provides vocational courses and language training programs to help OFWs develop new skills that can improve their employability.

Repatriation Assistance

In situations where OFWs face difficulties or need to be repatriated, OWWA extends its support. They provide financial assistance for transportation, temporary shelter, and other necessary services. Additionally, OWWA collaborates with other government agencies and non-government organizations to ensure the smooth and safe return of distressed OFWs to the Philippines.

Reintegration Programs

One of the key objectives of OWWA is to facilitate the successful reintegration of returning OFWs into the local workforce. The agency offers various reintegration programs that aim to provide financial, livelihood, and skills training assistance. These programs empower OFWs to start their own businesses or find stable employment opportunities in the Philippines.

Insurance and Benefits

OWWA provides insurance coverage to OFWs through its Membership Welfare Benefits Program. This program includes disability benefits, death benefits, medical and burial assistance, and livelihood and education assistance. By offering these benefits, OWWA ensures that OFWs and their families are protected in times of unforeseen circumstances.

Programs for Women Migrant Workers

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by women migrant workers, OWWA has specific programs to address their needs. These programs focus on gender-responsive services, protection against abuse and exploitation, and empowerment through skills training and livelihood programs. OWWA works closely with other government agencies, international organizations, and civil society groups to promote the rights and well-being of women OFWs.

OWWA Membership and Contributions

All OFWs, both land-based and sea-based, are required to be members of OWWA. Membership is automatically acquired upon the issuance of an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) or the validation of an e-receipt. OFWs contribute to the OWWA Fund through a one-time membership fee paid upon deployment, which is currently set at USD 25.

Collaboration and Partnerships

OWWA collaborates with various stakeholders, both domestic and international, to enhance its programs and services. The agency partners with Philippine overseas labor offices, foreign missions, international organizations, non-government organizations, and private sectors to ensure the efficient delivery of assistance and protection for OFWs.

OWWA Offices

The offices of OWWA abroad are located at the Migrant Workers Office, Philippine embassies and consulates. The head office is in Pasay City, Metro Manila, with regional offices in different regions of the Philippines to cater to the needs of OFWs and their families nationwide.

If you are based overseas, it is important to get in touch with the nearest OWWA office in your area. They can provide you with information and assistance regarding OWWA benefits, as well as updates on government regulations and policies affecting OFWs. Keep in mind that OWWA is always ready to help and support OFWs, so do not hesitate to reach out if needed.

Video: OWWA Membership Programs

Here is a videoclip as uploaded on OWWA Member YouTube channel which discusses the various programs and services offered by OWWA to its members.

You may be able to find some helpful details in terms of understanding OWWA programs and services. Please share, like or subscribe to the official OWWA YouTube channel for more updates.

Conclusion

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Through its comprehensive programs and services, OWWA extends support to OFWs and their families from pre-departure to post-return.

From social welfare services and repatriation assistance to reintegration programs and insurance benefits, OWWA ensures that OFWs are well taken care of and empowered. With its commitment to continuously improve and adapt to the changing needs of OFWs, OWWA remains a vital institution in the Philippines.

Launch of First 24/7 OWWA Operations Center in San Fernando City

ILOCOS – In a significant move towards improved welfare for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Ilocos regional office has announced its plans to establish a dedicated operations center this year. This initiative marks a significant stride in the organization’s commitment to ensuring round-the-clock support for OFWs and their families. The city of choice for this pioneer project is San Fernando in La Union.

This is a great initiative for OFWs and their families, as they can now avail of OWWA’s services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The operations center will be set up on a regional level similar to the central office, with personnel working in shifts to ensure uninterrupted service even on weekends and holidays.

Also Read: Proposed New OFW Social Security System for OFWs

A Mini Operations Center at the Regional Level

According to Amapola Villar, an Officer at the OWWA, this facility will replicate the operations of their central office but on a regional scale. “Our personnel will work in shifts, ensuring that the center is functional even during weekends and holidays,” Villar said. This 24/7 provision is a testament to OWWA’s steadfast dedication to the well-being of OFWs.

The OWWA plans to assign a special four or five-digit number for the operations center, ensuring smooth and easy access for OFWs. Villar highlighted that this service will be available globally at no cost for both domestic and international calls, reaffirming OWWA’s commitment to accessibility.

In addition to the dedicated number, OWWA is also expanding its communication channels to include popular apps like WhatsApp and Viber. This measure is designed to accommodate the various communication preferences of OFWs and their families. Villar emphasized, “Our clients’ concerns will no longer be restricted to our existing hotline numbers, social media accounts, and email addresses.”

Preparations Underway for the Operations Center

Villar disclosed that they are currently setting up the operations center and recruiting personnel for it. The team will comprise two supervisors and nine customer care personnel, ideally with experience in the call center industry. “We want individuals who are compassionate, as we are a service agency with a heart, and our clients often have urgent needs,” Villar added.

The Ilocos Region is home to a substantial OFW population, with 543,530 registered workers as per OWWA data. The imminent operations center will undoubtedly serve as a critical support system for these individuals as they navigate the challenges of working overseas. By providing easily accessible, round-the-clock support, OWWA is demonstrating its steadfast commitment to the welfare of OFWs and their families.

Proposed New OFW Social Security System for OFWs

The House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs has underlined the importance of establishing a distinctive social security and retirement system for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). The proposed system, enshrined in House Bill 8574, was passionately advocated for by the Committee Chairperson and KABAYAN Party-list Representative, Ron Salo.

There is an existing Social Security System (SSS) program for OFWs but this type of system also applies to voluntary contributors who are based in the Philippines. It does not cater to their unique needs and situations. The proposed system aims to provide comprehensive social protection for OFWs, including financial support in cases of job loss, disability, or death. It also includes a retirement fund that will ensure the OFWs’ well-being in their old age.

Comprehensive Social Security for OFWs

This proposed system aims to provide extensive social protection for OFWs, ensuring their health and prosperity. It is devised to supply financial aid in times of unemployment, disability, or bereavement, acting as a financial buffer for OFWs and their dependents during trying times. With this, OFWs would be able to secure a retirement fund, guaranteeing them financial stability and protection in their twilight years, and thus, affording them the tranquility and respect they so rightly deserve.

Assistance for Returning OFWs

In the same session, the committee deliberated on the potential aid and benefits for OFWs returning home due to international crises and disasters. Representatives from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) briefed the committee on their ongoing efforts to attend to the immediate and long-term welfare and livelihood needs of OFWs.

OFWs Aid from Government Action Fund

DMW Office-in-Charge, Atty. Hans Leo Cacdac, revealed that the bulk of OFW assistance is derived from a PHP1.2-billion action fund reserved for legal, medical, and humanitarian support.

Since its distribution in April 2023, the fund has provided assistance to 5,325 beneficiaries, including those affected by the earthquake in Turkey, disasters in Dubai within the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, as well as conflicts in Sudan, Lebanon, and Israel.

Monetary Assistance and Reintegration Support for OFWs

Cacdac further stated that returning OFWs could receive immediate financial assistance of PHP30,000, while conflict-affected OFWs could claim up to PHP50,000.

OWWA Director, Jocelyn Hapal, reported her office’s provision of counseling, skills training, financial and reintegration planning, as well as pre-departure briefing.

Comprehensive Support for OFWs

Hapal said, “On-site, OWWA conducts counseling, and we profile OFW returnees so we have a better understanding of their credentials. This will guide us on what reintegration assistance can be provided”.

OWWA has also established diverse reintegration programs, aid for specialized repatriation cases, special livelihood and educational assistance for surviving family members, and disability and death benefits, among other services.

House Committee’s Diligent Work For OFW Welfare

Previously, Salo disclosed that Speaker Martin Romualdez had instructed his panel to continue their work during the break to deliberate on bills aiming to improve the welfare of OFWs. This directive has become increasingly pertinent considering the repatriation of OFWs due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

Salo expressed, “As our courageous OFWs return to our homeland, often after enduring various challenges abroad, we believe it is our duty to provide them with comprehensive support and assistance”. He further stated that the House committee would research possible legislation to safeguard OFWs and facilitate their reintegration into society.

This aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration’s programs for OFWs.

Certified List of OFW Voters (CLOV) 2025 in Israel

Israel is a country that has always fascinated and intrigued tourists with its unique charm and mystery. With the increasing number of Filipino communities in the country, particularly those working in the healthcare and domestic service industry, overseas Pinoys are among the most politically engaged immigrants in Israel. Many of them are eager to know if they are eligible to vote in the coming elections. To check your eligibility, look for your name on the list of certified overseas voters (CLOV) on the websites of the Philippine Foreign Posts.

The Philippine Embassy in Israel has already made the list of overseas voters available to our kababayans as our country prepares for the upcoming elections, which will utilize the most recent list of certified overseas voters (CLOV). This document can also be used to estimate the number of registered voters. Read on!

The Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv began gearing up for the upcoming midterm elections by conducting a Hearing of the Resident Election Registration Board (RERB).

Anyone who wished to raise objections to any of the applications was encouraged to file their opposition in writing.

Such opposition should be addressed to the RERB and can be sent via email to telaviv.pe@dfa.gov.ph.

List of Registered Overseas Filipino Voters in Israel

As the Philippines gears up for its upcoming midterm elections, the conversation has intensified among Filipinos both at home and abroad.

For those residing in other countries like Israel, understanding the overseas voting system is crucial for a seamless election experience.

One of the first steps in this process is verifying your eligibility to vote by checking the Certified List of Overseas Voters (CLOV) via the Philippine Embassy’s website. However, as of this writing, the latest CLOV is not yet available online.

Thankfully, checking this list is a straightforward task. Various resources related to Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV) are also available on this website.

Moreover, Philippine diplomatic missions are committed to assisting their citizens.

They provide essential information on the voting process and can help you navigate the complexities of overseas voting.

The Philippine embassy is a reliable source for the most current information, reachable either through their website or by a direct phone call.

Before you cast your vote in the Philippine national elections from Israel—or any other foreign country—ensure your name appears on the relevant CLOV to confirm your eligibility.

How to Find Your Name in List of Absentee Voters in Israel

Go to the website where the Philippine Embassy in Israel has posted the Registered Overseas Voters List. This list is sorted alphabetically by surnames for easy browsing.
Find the PDF file that matches the initial of your surname and click it open. The list is segmented into various PDF files based on the alphabet of last names.
Thoroughly review the list to locate your name. If you spot it, great news! You are qualified to vote in the imminent elections.

If your name is included on the list, it signifies that you’ve successfully enrolled for overseas voting and are eligible to partake in the pivotal decisions of the forthcoming COMELEC national elections.

If you don’t see your name, there’s no need for concern! It merely indicates that you won’t be able to vote this time around. However, you can prepare for and anticipate future elections.

How to Vote in Philippine Elections at the Philippine Embassy in Israel

Step 1: Verify Voting Eligibility
First, confirm your name appears on Israel’s Certified List of Overseas Voters. This step ensures you have the right to vote.

Step 2: Present Identification
Proceed to the Special Board of Election Inspectors (SBEI) and show an acceptable ID like your passport for identity confirmation.

Step 3: Obtain Your Ballot
Once you’re verified, sign the voter list and collect your ballot. Make sure it’s free of any damage, marks, or smudges.

Step 4: Proceed to Voting Area
Move to the designated voting location. The SBEI will supply you with a folder and pen to ensure the privacy of your vote.

Step 5: Fill Out the Ballot Accurately
Follow the instructions to carefully complete your ballot. Avoid making extra marks or errors.

Step 6: Select Candidates Deliberately
You’re allowed to choose one President, one Vice President, up to twelve Senators, and one Party List. Overvoting is not allowed, so make your choices thoughtfully.

Step 7: Submit Your Completed Ballot
Return to the SBEI and insert your completed ballot into the Vote Counting Machine (VCM).

Step 8: Await Receipt Confirmation
Hold on while your voter’s receipt prints. Do not remove it yourself; it serves as your voting proof.

Step 9: Review Your Selections
Inspect your voter’s receipt to verify that all your selections are accurately recorded.

Step 10: Deposit the Receipt
If all details are correct, place your voter’s receipt into the designated box for Voter’s Receipts. Taking photos or copies is prohibited.

Step 11: Address Any Concerns
Should you spot any errors, alert the SBEI right away. Be mindful, however, that submitting false claims is not allowed.

Step 12: Exit the Voting Premises
Congratulations! You’ve successfully voted at the Philippine Embassy in Israel. Thank you for your active role in this crucial democratic process.

Video: Overseas voters registration sa Israel para sa May 2025 Election, sinuspinde | UB

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) En Banc has announced the suspension of voter registration in Israel for the upcoming May 2025 Elections amid escalating unrest in the region. Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia confirmed earlier today that the Commission En Banc has taken this precautionary measure to ensure the safety of Filipinos residing in Israel. Watch this breaking news update to learn more about the situation and what it means for overseas voters.

Contact Information of the Philippine Embassy in Israel

Address: 18 Bnei Dan Street Tel Aviv 66260 Israel
Telephone number: +972.3.601.0500
Office Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 08:30 – 16:30
Website: https://tel-avivpe.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinIsrael

Google Map Location

Certified List of OFW Voters (CLOV) 2028 in Hong Kong

Attention Filipinos in Hong Kong! If you have registered to vote in the 2028 elections, you can check your eligibility by finding your name on the certified list of overseas voters(CLOV) issued by the Philippine Consulate-General in Hong Kong.

Once available, PCG Hong Kong will issue a list of Filipino voters in this region, which can be accessed by visiting the Consulate-General website or checking the files listed below. Don’t miss your chance to exercise your right to vote and make your voice heard in the Philippine elections.

Registration for OFW voters for 2028 PH elections in Hong Kong is available and you can update personal details on their voter record, check their registration status, or reactivate a deactivated voter record. All you need is a valid Philippine passport. Visit the Philippine Consulate-General in your area to get started.

With only 360 days left to register as an overseas voter, Filipinos in Hong Kong are encouraged to take advantage of these preparations and exercise their right to vote in the upcoming elections.

Check if you’ve registered as per latest update on the official FB page of PCG HongKong:

List of Registered Overseas Filipino Voters in Hong Kong

To participate in the national elections, first confirm your name is on the Certified List of Overseas Voters (CLOV), available on the Philippine Consulate-General’s website or in person.

As of now, no CLOV for the 2028 elections is available yet. We will keep you posted once this is updated!

Check back on the PCG website or this post for updates. For assistance, contact the consular staff directly.

Lists are ordered alphabetically. *Use CTRL + F to quickly find your name—make sure it’s typed correctly with no extra spaces.*

The lists are ordered alphabetically and are straightforward to use, and COMELEC officers may add information or notes as needed.

To quickly find your name, use the CTRL + F shortcut and double-check that your name is properly typed and that there are no additional spaces or characters in the field.

How to Find Your Name in the List of Absentee Voters in Hong Kong

To check if you’re eligible to vote in the upcoming COMELEC national elections as an overseas voter, follow these steps:

Visit the PCG Hong Kong website and locate the List of Registered Overseas Voters, organized alphabetically by last name.
Open the PDF file corresponding to the first letter of your last name.
Search for your name. If it’s there, you’re eligible to vote.

How to Vote in Philippine Elections at the Philippine Consulate-General in Hong Kong

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

First, confirm that your name is listed on Hong Kong’s Certified List of Overseas Voters. This establishes that you’re permitted to vote.

Step 2: Provide Identification

Proceed to the Special Board of Election Inspectors (SBEI) and present an approved ID like your passport for identity verification.

Step 3: Acquire Your Ballot

Once confirmed, sign the electoral register and collect your voting ballot. Confirm it is in flawless condition—free from marks, tears, or smudges.

Step 4: Visit the Designated Voting Space

Move to the allocated voting area. The SBEI will supply a folder for ballot confidentiality and a pen for making selections, ensuring voting privacy.

Step 5: Diligently Complete the Ballot

Take ample time to fill out the ballot according to guidelines. Avoid making additional marks or errors.

Step 6: Thoughtfully Select Your Candidates

You’re allowed to vote for one President, one Vice President, up to twelve Senators, and one Party List. Overvoting is disallowed; choose with care.

Step 7: Hand in Your Ballot

Return to the SBEI and insert your completed ballot into the Vote Counting Machine (VCM).

Step 8: Stand By for Confirmation

Await as your voter’s receipt is generated. Refrain from removing it yourself; it acts as a record of your vote.

Step 9: Scrutinize Your Choices

Thoroughly examine your voter’s receipt to validate that all your selections are accurately recorded.

Step 10: Deposit the Receipt

If all is correct, place your voter’s receipt into the specified box for Voter’s Receipts. Note that taking photos or making copies is not permitted.

Step 11: Alert for Any Discrepancies

If you detect any inaccuracies, notify the SBEI without delay. Be aware; submitting false complaints is prohibited.

Step 12: Depart from Voting Venue

Excellent work! You’ve now successfully voted at the Philippine Embassy in Oman. Thank you for your active engagement in this vital democratic exercise.

Video: Overseas Voting Reminder: It’s Time to Cast Your Vote!

The Philippine Embassy in Hong Kong released an important announcement for all Filipinos in the Hong Kong about internet voting:

Contact Information of the Philippine Consulate-General in Hong Kong

Address: 14th Floor, United Centre Bldg. 95 Queensway Admiralty, Hong Kong
Telephone number: +852.2823.8501
Office Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Website: www.hongkongpcg.dfa.gov.ph
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHLinHK