Ilocos Norte:At least 35 government agencies and partner institutions gathered at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena to provide one-stop government services for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. The event aimed to make essential government services more accessible to migrant workers while strengthening support for their welfare, livelihood, and reintegration into local communities.
According to Philippines News Agency, the service caravan allowed participating agencies to bring their respective services closer to OFWs and their families, enabling them to seek assistance and obtain information in one venue. The activity highlighted programs designed to support migrant workers, including those returning to the country and those exploring livelihood opportunities in their home communities.
The event also recognized the significant contributions of OFWs to their families and the country's economic development. Andrea Luisa Anolin, Director of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating that such initiatives should become regular occurrences to support the Marcos administration's efforts to bring government services closer to people.
Foreign remittances, along with agriculture and tourism, are crucial to the economy of Ilocos households. Remittances, skills, and entrepreneurial initiatives of OFWs continue to support household incomes and contribute to economic activity nationwide. Leah Cabradilla, president of the Adams Federated OFW Association, expressed gratitude for the event, highlighting its importance for residents in remote areas.
The Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-unlad ng Samahang OFWs (Tulong PUSO) program of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration provided a PHP1 million livelihood grant to the Adams community for projects like meat and fruit wine processing. Additionally, three distressed OFWs from the province received PHP15,000 each under the DMW's Enhanced Livelihood Program (ELPOR).
Chariglo Casem, a beneficiary from Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, plans to use the grant to start a food cart business. Menchie Cabugon from Paoay, Ilocos Norte, intends to purchase home service beauty kits with her assistance. Both women returned home from working abroad due to various personal reasons.
The service fair also offered participants guidance on financial literacy and entrepreneurship, discussing financial planning, budgeting, and basic business management to help OFWs and their families manage sustainable livelihood projects and achieve long-term financial stability.
