PHILIPPINES: Returning overseas Filipino workers could soon receive government support even before they leave their host country.
The Department of Migrant Workers is backing the proposed Bagong Balikbayan Act, which seeks to create a stronger and more organized reintegration system for OFWs who plan to return to the Philippines.
The measure is now being discussed in the Senate as Senate Bill No. 2423, under Committee Report No. 80. It aims to provide long-term support instead of limiting assistance to repatriation, cash aid or emergency relief.
Support Could Start 6 Months Before an OFW Comes Home
One of the main provisions of the bill is the early start of the reintegration process.
Government assistance may begin around six months before an OFW’s planned return.
This gives workers more time to prepare for employment, business opportunities, education, skills training and family adjustment.
The measure also seeks to connect OFWs to job matching, livelihood training, financing programs and counseling services.
Many OFWs Return With Skills but Struggle to Find Jobs
Supporters of the bill say many OFWs return with years of experience and high-level skills but still end up unemployed or underemployed.
Poor job matching can prevent them from using the experience they gained abroad.
Others may also return after difficult experiences overseas and need psychological or family support before they can work again.
A Senate committee report has warned that existing reintegration programs remain fragmented and may not provide enough support for OFWs to build stable livelihoods after returning home.
Four Areas of Support for Returning Workers
The proposed program focuses on four main areas.
- Kaalaman covers education, upskilling, reskilling and recognition of skills.
- Kalinga includes psychosocial counseling, family support and other welfare services.
- Negosyo provides help for entrepreneurship, livelihood development and possible access to financing.
- Hanapbuhay focuses on employment facilitation, job matching and job opportunities in the Philippines.
DMW Wants Reintegration to Continue After Repatriation
DMW and OWWA already run reintegration programs under Republic Act No. 11641.
However, the proposed law aims to give these services a more permanent and coordinated framework.
This has become more important as regional conflicts and emergency repatriations continue to affect Filipino workers abroad.
The goal is for government support to continue even after an OFW has safely returned to the Philippines, helping workers rebuild their careers, finances and family life over the long term.
