Thousands of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) from region 9 displaced by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) were assisted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE 9) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA 9) under its Abot Kamay Ang Pagtulong ( AKAP) Program.
Regional Director Atty. Roy L. Buenafe said, for region 9, there are 1,900 that have been given the cash aid and they are still expecting more this coming week.
This figure was taken since April. These OFW’s were given P10,000 cash assistance with a budget of ₱ 35.9 million.
Land-based and Sea-based Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) displaced by the COVID-19 pandemic may still apply for financial assistance.
The program covers regular or documented OFWs with valid passport and appropriate visa or permit to stay and work in the receiving country, qualified undocumented OFWs who were originally regular or documented workers but for some reason or cause have thereafter lost their regular or documented status; and Balik-Manggagawa who are unable to return to their host country in view of host country lockdown due to COVID19.
They may apply online and upload the following documents: Copy of Passport or Travel Document; Copy of flight ticket or boarding pass evidencing return to the Philippines or arrival stamp/sticker attached in the Passport; Proof of overseas employment i.e. valid verified overseas employment, OEC, residence I.D.s, visa/re-entry visa, among others or permit to stay in the receiving country; and Proof of loss of employment on account of COVID19 or proof that the host country/ies are included in the list of those heavily affected by the COVID-19.
He said they will continue to approve applications until the end of the year since they have been given additional allocation under Bayanihan 2, or the Bayanihan to Recover as One.
Director Buenafe also added that in line with the safety protocols, payouts are done with partner financial institution M Lhuillier to avoid queuing and reduce person to person contact. (R.G. Antonet A. Go)