BANGUED, Abra (PIA) — Ninety Abrenian Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents benefit from the more than P1.2-million government assistance distributed on September 12, 2024.
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)-Abra Family Welfare Officer Karren Borreta and staff led the distribution of checks at their office in Zone 4.
Repatriated and distressed OFWs received various amounts of cash aid ranging from P20,000 to P50,000 under the programs of the OWWA such as the ‘Balik Probinsya, Balik Hanapbuhay’ Program, Medical Assistance, Bereavement Assistance, and other Special Assistance Packages.
Former OFW Marites Nelmida Barroga thanked the OWWA for the assistance she received. She shared that after having been diagnosed of early stage of breast cancer in April, she decided to come home to Abra for good. Due to her condition, she is not really fit to work.
“Di nagawid nak, nagpa-check up nak ket awan ti source of income ko, hanak met makatrabahon isunga idiay nak lattan balayen. Dakkel nga tulong daytoy naawat ko, lalo ta awanen ti pagsapulak. Agyamanak ti OWWA,” she expressed.
[When I came home, I went for medical check-up. I do not have source of income, I cannot work so I just stay at home. This is a great help for me especially now I don’t have a job. Thank you OWWA.]
OWWA-Abra Family Welfare Officer Karren Borreta reported that since January 2024, they already listed more than 400 Abrenian beneficiaries for the financial assistance. She shared some information on who may avail of said assistance.
“For example, a repatriated seafarer, he must bring only a copy of his contract, arrival stamp and passport so we can process benefits accordingly,” she said.
Borreta is inviting Abrenian OFWs to visit the OWWA Abra office at the HMC Building Zone 4, Bangued to for more information about these repatriation and reintegration services, and other programs of the agency. (JDP/CAGT-PIA CAR, Abra)
