Philippines boosts funding for OFW repatriation and welfare

The Philippine government is boosting funding for overseas Filipino worker (OFW) assistance programs to address gaps in emergency repatriation capabilities. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) have presented a combined proposed 2027 budget of approximately P11.6 billion to the House Committee on Appropriations.

To account for recent geopolitical instability in the Middle East, the Palace confirmed additional allocations including P3 billion for the DMW action fund and P1 billion for OWWA, which includes P700 million specifically for emergency repatriation. OWWA officials have also requested resources to expand mental health services, medical support, and global welfare centers to better assist workers and their families abroad.

In addition to budget deliberations, OWWA continues to conduct service caravans, such as a recent event in Pangasinan that provided welfare, health, and documentation services to over 1,000 OFWs and their dependents. Lawmakers have expressed support for these agencies, noting their critical role in managing the immediate return and reintegration of workers during international conflicts and disasters.