TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Region 2 has disbursed over P5.2 million in assistance to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from the Cagayan Valley region who sought aid through the government’s reintegration programs.
Atty. Romelson Abbang, Regional Director, reported that over 250 OFWs have benefited from the four major reintegration programs offered by the department in the region.
He noted that 107 OFWs received P3.21 million in aid under the ‘Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFWs na Nangangailangan’ (AKSYON), a program that supports distressed migrant workers.
Additionally, 62 OFWs were given P1.24 million under the ‘Sa Pinas Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir’ program designed for migrant workers who chose to be employed in schools rather than returning to work abroad.
“We also assisted 38 OFWs through the Livelihood Assistance Program (LDAP), with a total of P380,000 allocated. This program is for OFWs who have opted to establish a small livelihood to support their families after years of working abroad,” Abbang said.
Under the ‘Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay’ program, 45 OFWs received P450,000 in assistance.
“We regularly monitor these livelihood projects to ensure they effectively support the OFWs and their families and help them avoid returning abroad,” he added.
Abbang also highlighted that the department continues to assist thousands of OFWs and their families through welfare assistance, protection, and processing programs.
He urged individuals planning to work abroad to be cautious of illegal recruiters.
“If you are considering applying for work abroad, visit our office to verify the legitimacy of the recruitment agency you are dealing with to avoid illegal recruiters,” he advised. (OTB/PIA Region 2)
