San juan city: Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac touted significant reforms in bringing essential government services to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), following the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to always prioritize their safety and welfare. At the post-State of the Nation Address (SONA) conference in San Juan City on Wednesday, Cacdac said OFWs now enjoy faster, safer, and more dignified services, thanks to the continuous reminder from the President.
According to Philippines News Agency, Cacdac expressed gratitude to the Chief Executive for recognizing the OFWs' crucial role in promoting the Philippines through their talent and good character. He emphasized that from airport facilities to digital documentation and the provision of government aid to distressed workers, the government's upgraded services are reshaping the OFW experience.
Cacdac highlighted the OFW lounge, designed to make travel more comfortable for OFWs by providing a decent space while waiting for their flights. This facility has already served millions of Filipino migrant workers. Cacdac stated that the President's order for the establishment of OFW lounges aims to ease the travel experience and demonstrate dignified services and programs, with the OFW Lounge operated by DMW and OWWA serving 1.2 million OFWs since its inception last year.
The OFW lounge, more than just a facility, symbolizes the country's respect and gratitude for OFWs. In his fourth SONA on Monday, President Marcos reiterated the push for digitalization to streamline key government services for OFWs, particularly for their documentation needs. Cacdac confirmed the rollout of a major digitalization initiative to replace the burdensome Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) with a streamlined digital 'key travel pass,' integrated into the newly launched eGovPH app.
President Marcos highlighted that the app facilitates various government services and processes, including driver's license renewal, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, GSIS, and immigration and customs declaration at airports. It also aids in creating bio-data, job searches, and accessing government IDs, including the National ID. Cacdac remarked that digitizing OFW documentation means less hassle and more time for OFWs to spend with their families during limited vacation periods.
Additionally, Cacdac stated that the President instructed the DMW to strengthen its Aksyon Fund, a legal and welfare assistance program crucial for providing financial and other government support to distressed OFWs. Beyond direct support to OFWs, the President's directive includes 'hand-holding' OFW families, particularly children. DMW and OWWA programs have been expanded to include scholarships, values formation, and mental wellness support for the families of OFWs left behind.
Cacdac also reminded OFWs that while government aid is available, they must remain law-abiding in their host countries.
