LEGAZPI CITY – The Department of Migrant Workers Bicol (DMW-5) has assisted nearly 80 repatriated overseas Filipino workers this year.
In an interview on Friday, Merry Christ Joely Eguia, the DMW-5 information and liaison officer, reported that a total of 79 OFWs from the region had been assisted, including 28 whose remains arrived.
Eguia said these OFWs received airport assistance and financial aid through the Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo Para Sa Mga OFW Nangangailangan (AKSYON) Fund program.
“Most of the OFWs came from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman. After DMW handles the repatriation and airport assistance, financial assistance is provided either through AKSYON or Livelihood Assistance,” she said.
She noted that the amount of financial assistance varies depending on the specifics of each case.
“Under the AKSYON Fund, OFWs may receive financial assistance based on their circumstances. In the event of an OFW’s death, whether it occurs abroad or within one year of their return to the Philippines, the qualified next of kin is entitled to receive 100,000 pesos as death assistance,” she added.
Beyond financial support, the DMW also offers reintegration services, including financial literacy programs, skills training, psychosocial interventions, and referrals to partner agencies for more assistance.
“In addition to financial aid, we provide other services such as financial literacy, skills training, and psychosocial support,” she said. (PNA)