Former Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Marie Grace fondly recalls her time working in Singapore. While she cherishes the memories, she also remembers the challenges she faced, particularly in navigating multiple offices to meet her overseas employment requirements.
In those days, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), which was previously divided into the POEA and OWWA, had not yet consolidated its services. This made it difficult for OFWs like Grace to gather necessary documents, attend essential seminars, and process their Overseas Employment Contracts (OEC) and OWWA memberships. Grace described this as a significant hurdle for those eager to work abroad. “We aim to work abroad, but if the processing is too complicated, that’s a real hurdle for us,” she said.
Another ongoing struggle for OFWs is ensuring their families back home receive adequate support and tracking down the benefits they are entitled to while overseas. To address these persistent challenges, the government has launched the Bagong Pilipinas One-Stop OFW Action Center in Makati City. The project was inaugurated by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.
The newly established center serves as a centralized hub for OFWs, offering vital services provided by the DMW and OWWA. President Marcos explained the motivation behind the initiative: “This will help remove bureaucratic headaches and simplify the system for our OFWs returning home. Instead of waiting in long lines and dealing with complex procedures, you will find an organized and quick way to access government services, benefits, and programs.”
Although the DMW and OWWA will maintain their headquarters and other offices, the Bagong Pilipinas One-Stop OFW Action Center aims to create a single, easily recognizable location where OFWs can seek assistance.
Secretary Hans Cacdac of the DMW emphasized the key services available at the center. These include reintegration support for returning workers, legal aid, and other essential assistance funded by the DMW action fund.
Beyond the core offerings of the DMW and OWWA, the action center collaborates with other government agencies such as PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, and SSS. This partnership ensures that OFWs can efficiently obtain necessary documents and access benefits without unnecessary hassle.
Adding a personal touch, the center also features a welcoming lounge area with complimentary espresso-based coffee and other drinks. President Marcos remarked, “Even the little things matter for the priceless contributions of our OFWs.”
The Bagong Pilipinas One-Stop OFW Action Center symbolizes the government’s commitment to streamlining processes and providing accessible support for Filipino workers and their families, ensuring their sacrifices are acknowledged and their needs are met.
