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DMW: Department of Migrant Workers for Filipinos Based Overseas

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is a newly established executive agency of the Philippine government that is dedicated to safeguarding and advancing the rights and well-being of Filipino migrant workers and their loved ones. The DMW has taken over the responsibilities of nine (9) government offices that previously handled overseas labor and employment concerns.

With its consolidated efforts, the DMW aims to provide comprehensive support and protection to Filipino migrant workers, ensuring that they are treated fairly and with dignity in their places of work abroad.

History

The DMW was created through Republic Act 11641, also known as the “Department of Migrant Workers Act,” which was signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on December 30, 2021.
The establishment of the DMW was based on previous bills that aimed to create a department specifically for overseas Filipinos.
The DMW is a new executive agency of the Philippine government that aims to protect and promote the welfare of Filipino migrant workers and their families.
The department consolidates and takes over the functions of nine existing government offices that deal with overseas labor and employment matters. These include the following:
- Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
- National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO)
- International Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB) of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
- National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP)
- Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLOs), which were under DOLE
- All Philippine Overseas Labor Attachés (Labor Attachés)
- Office of the Social Welfare Attaché (OSWA)
- Secretariat of the Congressional Oversight Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs (COCOWA) and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) related to OFW affairs.
By consolidating these functions, the DMW aims to streamline the government’s efforts in addressing the needs and concerns of Filipino migrant workers. This includes providing assistance in securing employment overseas, ensuring their welfare and protection while working abroad, and facilitating their reintegration into Philippine society upon their return.
The DMW’s consolidation of these functions also aims to eliminate redundancies and overlaps in the government’s services for overseas Filipinos, making it easier for them to access the support they need. With the DMW’s establishment, Filipino migrant workers can expect a more efficient and effective government response to their concerns and needs, ensuring that their rights and welfare are upheld and protected.
Despite being established by law, the DMW is still under constitution and review as it awaits its budget and implementing rules and regulations.
The DMW’s creation is a significant step towards providing comprehensive support and protection to Filipino migrant workers, who have long been vulnerable to exploitation and abuse in their places of work abroad.
The department’s establishment reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that the rights and welfare of overseas Filipinos are upheld and protected and that they are given the support they need to thrive in their chosen careers overseas.
The DMW’s success will depend on its ability to effectively implement its mandate and provide the necessary services and support to Filipino migrant workers and their families.

DMW Functions

Overseas recruitment, deployment, labor, and repatriation: The DMW is responsible for facilitating and managing the overseas employment process of Filipino workers, from pre-employment to post-employment. It also ensures the protection and promotion of their rights and welfare and assists them in case of abuse, violation, or emergency. It also coordinates with the host countries and other agencies for the repatriation of OFWs who are displaced, terminated, or deceased.
Training, welfare, and benefit programs: The DMW provides various programs and services for the development and well-being of OFWs and their families. These include skills training, language and culture orientation, financial literacy, social security, health and insurance benefits, legal assistance, and psychosocial counseling. It also administers the Overseas Workers Welfare Fund, which provides assistance and benefits to OFWs and their dependents.
Reintegration programs and services: The DMW helps OFWs who return to the country to reintegrate into the society and economy. It offers livelihood and entrepreneurship opportunities, career guidance, job placement, and referral services. It also supports the education, health, and social needs of OFWs and their families.
Policy and international cooperation: The DMW formulates and implements policies and programs that aim to improve the overseas labor and employment sector. It also engages in bilateral and multilateral cooperation with other countries and international organizations to promote the interests and welfare of OFWs. It also conducts research and studies on overseas labor and employment issues and trends.

Services Provided by the DMW

Recruitment and Deployment: The department ensures that Filipino migrant workers are recruited and deployed overseas in a safe and legal manner and that they are protected from exploitation and abuse while working abroad.
Repatriation: The DMW plays a crucial role in facilitating the repatriation of Filipino migrant workers who have been displaced or have encountered problems in their places of work.
Labor Assistance: The DMW provides training, welfare, benefits, and reintegration programs and services for overseas Filipino workers and their qualified dependents.
- These programs and services are designed to help Filipino migrant workers and their families cope with the challenges of working and living abroad and to ensure that they are able to reintegrate into Philippine society upon their return.
The DMW also coordinates with the Bangsamoro Ministry of Labor and Employment on matters related to overseas Bangsamoro workers.
- This partnership is crucial in ensuring that the rights and welfare of Bangsamoro workers are protected and upheld and that they are given the support they need to thrive in their chosen careers overseas.
The DMW’s functions and services are essential in ensuring that Filipino migrant workers are able to work and live abroad with dignity and respect and that they are given the support they need to succeed in their chosen careers.
The department’s establishment is a significant step towards providing comprehensive support and protection to Filipino migrant workers and reflects the government’s commitment to upholding their rights and welfare.

DMW Officials

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has appointed officials for its various offices and bureaus. These officials are responsible for overseeing the department’s functions and services, and ensuring that they are carried out effectively and efficiently.

At the helm of the DMW is Secretary Bernard P. Olalia, who was formerly the administrator of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). Secretary Olalia brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise in overseas labor and employment matters and is committed to upholding the rights and welfare of Filipino migrant workers.

In addition to Secretary Olalia, the DMW has seven undersecretaries and eight assistant secretaries for its different functions and services. These officials are responsible for overseeing the department’s various programs and initiatives, and ensuring that they are implemented in a timely and effective manner.

Video: Full cycle reintegration program ng DMW para sa returning OFWs | Newsroom Ngayon

In a recent initiative championed by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are being welcomed with renewed hope and opportunities to rebuild their lives. The program, aptly named “Bagong Buhay, Bagong Pag-asa” (New Life, New Hope), focuses on providing these individuals with the necessary support to ensure their successful reintegration into Philippine society.

The DMW has established a framework that aids in job placement, offers entrepreneurial guidance, and conducts financial management workshops. The department’s efforts are directed at equipping OFWs with the skills and knowledge required to achieve financial independence and secure a stable future.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW)?

The DMW is a governmental body in the Philippines established to specifically address the needs and concerns of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families.

2. Why was the DMW created?

The DMW was formed to centralize and streamline the functions of several agencies dealing with overseas employment to provide more efficient services and support to OFWs.

3. Which government offices’ functions have been consolidated into the DMW?

The DMW consolidates the functions of nine government offices, including the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), among others.

4. What services does the DMW provide?

The DMW provides a range of services such as processing overseas employment certificates, handling workers’ welfare cases abroad, offering legal assistance, facilitating reintegration programs, and managing training and benefit programs for OFWs and their dependents.

5. How can OFWs access the services provided by the DMW?

OFWs can access DMW services through their website, via hotline numbers, or by visiting their regional offices and Philippine embassies and consulates abroad.

6. Does the DMW offer reintegration programs for returning OFWs?

Yes, the DMW offers reintegration programs that include livelihood training, financial literacy workshops, and job placement assistance for OFWs returning to the Philippines.

7. What kind of assistance can OFWs expect from the DMW if they encounter problems abroad?

The DMW can provide legal assistance, rescue and repatriation services, and coordinate with foreign governments and international bodies to address the concerns of OFWs.

8. Can the DMW assist in the deployment of OFWs?

Yes, the DMW, through the POEA, is responsible for ensuring that the deployment of OFWs is in accordance with the law and that their employment is secured and their rights are protected. They oversee the recruitment process and the accreditation of foreign employers as well.

Summary

In conclusion, the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers marks a significant stride forward in the Philippine government’s commitment to the millions of its citizens working overseas. By combining the functions of nine prior entities, the DMW sets a new standard for streamlined and efficient service delivery, ensuring that Filipino migrant workers receive the comprehensive support and advocacy they deserve.

This unified approach underscores the government’s recognition of the critical role these workers play in both the national and global economy and their entitlement to work in conditions that respect their rights and dignity. As the DMW continues to evolve, it has become a source of strength for Filipino migrants and their families, embodying the nation’s dedication to their welfare wherever they may be in the world.

Contact Information

Address: Blas F. Ople Building, Ortigas Ave., Cor. EDSA Ave., Mandaluyong City
Telephone numbers: +632 8722-1144, +632 8722-1155
Website: https://www.dmw.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/dmw.gov.ph/

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Inter-Agency Medical Repatriation Assistance Program: Urgent Revision Called for IMRAP’s Implementation

MANILA – There has been a call for an update on the rules and procedures of the Inter-Agency Medical Repatriation Assistance Program (IMRAP). Incorporated under Joint Memorandum Circular (JHC) No, 2017-0001, IMRAP covers the medical repatriation of various Filipino nationals, both documented and undocumented migrant workers, and their dependents overseas.

Many Filipinos abroad who have been in touch with medical repatriation know about IMRAP. It is a critical program that offers comprehensive assistance to migrant workers who need to be repatriated due to health-related reasons. However, despite the success of IMRAP during this past year’s COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a call for careful reassessment and revision of the program’s guidelines before its implementation in 2021.

Role of Participating Agencies in IMRAP

The program necessitates the help of participating agencies through each stage from pre-arrival to post-arrival. This assistance includes welfare aid and reintegration help. OFW Party-list Representative Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino, who led the dialogue, accentuated the need to reevaluate and adjust IMRAP. This consideration takes into account the formation of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in 2021 and the learnings from previous global public health emergencies.

Revisiting IMRAP’s Guidelines

Magsino noted the rapidly changing work circumstances abroad with health consequences, which necessitates re-examining the program’s guidelines. This would allow the provisions to correspond better to the current realities and challenges of medical repatriation for Overseas Filipinos (OFs) and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). She stressed the need to simplify existing procedures and fortify inter-agency coordination among involved government entities.

Comprehensive Assistance Offered by IMRAP

The program provides in-flight medical assistance and escort services, initial medical assessment/evaluation upon arrival in the country, ambulance conduction, referral to and/or confinement in Department of Health (DOH) or local government unit or state universities or colleges-managed hospitals.

It also covers financial aid for hospital and other medical expenses, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation assistance/benefits, and welfare programs and psychosocial counseling.

Gaps in IMRAP’s Execution

Despite IMRAP’s significant benefits during the pandemic, Magsino acknowledged that there were lessons learned and gaps spotted in the mechanism that need to be addressed.

These gaps include communication issues or lack of coordination among agencies and the absence of additional support to the OF/OFW post-return, such as welfare assistance or reintegration assistance.

The Call to Expand IMRAP’s Scope

The possibility of broadening the program’s scope to include repatriations of distressed OFs and OFWs, not just limited to medical repatriations, was also discussed.

Magsino suggested that this would allow the mechanism to assist OFWs who are victims of abuse and human trafficking.

Agreement among Participating Agencies

All agencies involved in JMC No. 2017-0001, including DOH, DMW, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Social Work and Development, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Philippine Charity Sweepstake Office, and Manila International Airport Authority, attended the dialogue.

They collectively agreed that IMRAP guidelines need to be revised, especially considering the changes in their responsibilities following the creation of DMW. They also agreed in principle to expand the program to include the repatriation of distressed OFWs, particularly those abused or trafficked, subject to their existing rules and issuances on non-medical repatriation.

Concluding Remarks from Magsino

Recognizing the urgency of refining the program, the member-agencies committed to providing their position papers within a week. DOH, as the central coordinating body under JMC 2017-0001, will compile all feedback and reconvene the technical working group to finalize the revisions within the month.

“We are grateful for the participation and recognition of the urgency to revise the guidelines by all agencies involved. This is particularly important as we handle a series of repatriations in conflict areas such as Israel, Lebanon, and recently Sudan. These repatriations may not necessarily be medical but require State intervention, especially in providing psycho-social counseling and welfare assistance”, said Magsino.

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.

DMW Announces Overseas Employment Certificate Now FREE

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has recently made an important announcement that is set to benefit many overseas workers. The announcement made on Tuesday let it be known that the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), in all its forms, will now be issued free of charge for rehires.

The new policy will be effective starting from July 29, 2023. According to a post on the DMW’s official Facebook page, there will be no requirement for an Official Receipt for the said certificate.

What is the Overseas Employment Certificate?

The Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) is a document that serves as proof of employment for overseas Filipino workers. It is issued by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) office (formerly known as Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)) to ensure the protection and welfare of OFWs.

It also acts as an exit clearance for OFWs, allowing them to leave the country legally with proper documentation. The OEC also serves as an exemption for OFWs from paying the airport terminal fee and travel tax.

The purpose of OEC is to monitor the number of Filipino workers leaving the country and to ensure that they are properly documented and protected.

Memorandum 110 and OEC Change

The DMW released Memorandum 110, dated July 25, 2023, which details the new policy. This new policy of free issuance of OEC to rehires is in line with Department Circular 02. As per the circular, the OEC has been renamed to the OFW Pass and the fees for its issuance have been removed.

OFW Pass and New Mobile App

In addition to the policy changes, the DMW has also been conducting pilot test runs for the new OFW Pass and their new mobile application. The DMW has clarified on Facebook that although the new mobile app can be downloaded, it is currently not fully operational.

The app is still undergoing a series of changes and improvements to ensure its functionality and user-friendliness.

The OFW Pass is intended to be a digital platform for OFWs to conveniently access their information and transaction records.

International Pilot Test Run

The DMW is not only conducting pilot test runs in the Philippines, but it has also expanded its testing to other countries.

These include the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Qatar, Oman, Taiwan, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

This international testing strategy shows the DMW’s commitment to ensuring the app’s functionality and usability across various markets.

How to Contact DMW

The DMW has put out a request for patience from those who wish to participate in the pilot test run. Given the high volume of users accessing the digital platforms, occasional delays in server response time may be encountered. However, the department is actively encouraging OFWs to provide their feedback and suggestions during this phase.

Feedback can be sent to the DMW through various channels including email at ofwpass@dmw.gov.ph, the agency’s Facebook page, FB Messenger at https://www.facebook.com/dmw.gov.ph, WhatsApp, Viber, call, or SMS at +63 908-326-8344, +63 927-147-8186, or +63 920-517-1059.