PHILIPPINES: The Philippines and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are strengthening collaboration on the Wafid Programme, the Gulf region’s unified digital system for mandatory pre‑deployment medical examinations.
On August 4, 2026, officials from the GCC Secretariat, Gulf Health Council, and GCC embassies met with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) at its Central Office to discuss improvements to the programme and its implementation for Filipino workers heading to Gulf states.
What Wafid Does for OFWs
The Wafid Programme—formerly known as GAMCA—standardizes medical screening for expatriates entering Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. It ensures that OFWs undergo examinations only in accredited clinics, using a digital appointment system designed to prevent fraud, overcharging, and unauthorized medical centers. The GCC delegation presented its accreditation framework, quality assurance protocols, and global rollout across 21 partner countries, including the Philippines.
Expansion of Accredited Clinics in the Philippines
Currently, 24 Wafid‑accredited medical centers and clinics operate nationwide. To meet rising demand and improve convenience for OFWs, the Gulf Health Council announced plans to expand the number of accredited facilities across the country. This move aims to reduce appointment bottlenecks, improve geographic access, and ensure that all screenings meet GCC health standards.
DMW officials emphasized that all medical examinations must be conducted only by qualified and accredited facilities, in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH). They also highlighted the importance of uniform fees, transparent appointment systems, and strict quality control to protect OFWs from fraudulent clinics and inconsistent medical practices.
Strengthening OFW Protection
Undersecretary Jainal Rasul Jr. welcomed the GCC’s commitment to improving accessibility and maintaining rigorous standards. He reiterated that the DMW’s priority is the welfare, protection, and fair treatment of Filipino migrant workers. Assistant Secretaries Levinson Alcantara, Jules Ambito‑Fermin, Maria Regina Galias, and Directors Jerome Yanzon, Paul Listones, and Celso Hernandez also joined the discussions, underscoring the Philippines’ commitment to aligning national health protocols with GCC requirements.
