On July 20, 2022, the newly-created Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) launched its One Repatriation Center (One Repat-DMW) with the aim to give an immediate response to repatriation, welfare, and other concerns of distressed Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
This is a one-stop center where OFWs and OFW families can call and visit for help, especially in times of crisis. Instead of going to several, and sometimes unofficial agencies, Filipinos can now come to One Repat-DMW for assistance.
The One Repatriate-DMW will assist in ensuring that distressed OFWs get prompt assistance and are able to return home to their families and loved ones, according to DMW Secretary Susan Ople.
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Department of Migrant Workers Launches One Repatriation Command Center for OFWs
Many OFWs abroad face many different issues and problems. Some are undocumented and are deprived of their most basic rights, while others endure physical and sexual abuse. There have also been cases of OFWs being abandoned by their employers and left to fend for themselves.
In light of these challenges, the One Repat-DMW was set up so there is a centralized system where you can contact and get assistance for repatriation and other welfare services.
According to Ople, distressed OFWs or their immediate families or next of kin should contact the One Repat-DMW hotline “1-348,” where a team of case agents, welfare officers, and medical professionals will assist them. For walk-in requests for assistance, the center also offers assistance.
One Repatriation Command Center Hotline
If you are an OFW in distress, or if you know of any OFWs who may need help, please do not hesitate to contact the One Repat-DMW. The Center is open 24/7 and can be reached at the following numbers:
One Repatriation Center 24/7 Hotline – 1348
Email: repat@dmw.gov.ph
Office Address: 2nd floor of the Blas F. Ople Building , EDSA corner Ortigas Avenue
Filipinos overseas who need immediate assistance can visit the POLO office nearest them. The DMW Secretary added that the Center will collaborate closely with the DFA, especially in places where there are no labor offices.
The One Repat-DMW Center is on the second floor of Blas F. Ople Building, EDSA corner Ortigas Avenue.
Hours of Operation
Mondays to Fridays 8am to 5pm (Philippine Time)
Take note that while the office hours of operation is from Mondays to Fridays 8am to 5pm, you can still call the hotline as it is available 24/7. Hotline is 1348 and you can also email them at repat@dmw.gov.ph.
Summary
This new ORCC helpdesk is a good initiative by the DMW to have a centralized system where you can contact and get assistance for repatriation and other welfare services. The One Repatriate-DMW will assist in ensuring that distressed OFWs get prompt assistance and are able to return home to their families and loved ones.
The One Repat-DMW is just one of the programs and services of the DMW for OFWs. Other programs will include OFW Children’s Circle, a new and more efficient OFW Handbook, employment for OFWs made faster from 3 months down to 3 weeks, and the OEC and contract verification to become automated on your smartphone.
If you are an OFW in distress, or if you know of any OFWs who may need help, please do not hesitate to contact the One Repat-DMW. The Center is open 24/7 and can be reached at the following numbers: One Repatriation Center 24/7 Hotline – 1348 or Email: repat@dmw.gov.ph.
Contact Information
One Repatriation Center
24/7 Telephone Hotline – 1348
Email: repat@dmw.gov.ph
Address: 2nd floor of the Blas F. Ople Building , EDSA corner Ortigas Avenue