PHILIPPINES: More overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning from the Middle East are receiving support, as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) confirms over ₱3.2 million in financial aid has been distributed to help them recover and restart.
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Cash Aid Reaches Hundreds of Returning OFWs
As of April 23, the DSWD reported assisting 3,260 OFWs affected by the ongoing crisis in the Gulf region.
Out of this number, 609 OFWs received a total of ₱3,209,000 in financial assistance. This cash support is meant to help them start over in their home provinces after sudden job loss or forced return.
More Than Cash: Full Support Package Rolled Out
The assistance is not limited to cash aid. The DSWD is providing a full range of services under the government’s UPLIFT framework.
This includes:
- Psychosocial First Aid (PFA)
- Livelihood assistance
- Medical support
- Reintegration referrals
These services follow the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure a “whole-of-government” response for affected OFWs.
Mental Health Support for Thousands
Returning home after a crisis is not just a financial challenge—it also affects mental well-being.
The DSWD shared that 2,851 repatriated OFWs received psychosocial first aid to help them cope with stress and uncertainty.
In addition, 409 OFWs stranded at airports due to travel restrictions were also assisted by social workers.
Livelihood and Medical Aid for Restarting Life
Five OFWs have already started rebuilding their lives through livelihood support.
Five OFWs received ₱20,000 each under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP)
One OFW in crisis received ₱300,000 in medical assistance
These targeted programs aim to provide long-term stability, not just short-term relief.