DMW, OWWA Deliver Php 304M in Aid to Over 10,000 OFWs and Families

PHILIPPINES: More than Php 304 million worth of assistance and services has been allocated to over 10,000 overseas Filipino workers and their families through the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) under the 2026 Handog ng Pangulo program.

Figures released for the September 14 nationwide activity show a combined 10,177 beneficiaries and total reported expenses of Php 304,103,971.24.

The program brings together government agencies across the Philippines to provide employment, livelihood, welfare, health, education, and other public services in one nationwide activity.

DMW Assistance Reaches Php 214.3 Million

DMW accounted for 5,449 beneficiaries, with reported expenses totaling Php 214.335 million.

The largest amount went to the AKSYON Fund, which covered 3,116 beneficiaries and accounted for about Php 181.43 million.

Another Php 32.905 million went to livelihood distribution benefiting 2,149 people.

DMW also reported beneficiaries under medical assistance, the LIKHA program, and its OFW Desk with free calling services.

These programs are designed to help OFWs and their families facing emergencies, financial difficulties, or the challenge of rebuilding their livelihood after overseas employment.

OWWA Programs Account for Nearly Php 90 Million

OWWA, meanwhile, reported 4,728 beneficiaries and approximately Php 89.77 million in expenses.

Its largest group consisted of 2,627 beneficiaries under the Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay Program, with Php 43.705 million released.

Another 1,731 beneficiaries received support under the Welfare Assistance Program, while other funds went to disability and death benefits, livelihood assistance, scholarships, and reintegration programs.

OWWA services were also made available to OFW families during Handog ng Pangulo activities in different provinces.

More Than 37,000 Job Vacancies Offered

Employment opportunities formed another major part of the DMW participation.

The agency reported 53 job fair events, involving 156 participating employers and a total of 37,109 vacancies.

Job fairs and government service caravans were held nationwide on September 14 as part of Handog ng Pangulo 2026. Similar activities included local and overseas recruitment opportunities in several provinces.