House bill seeks sustainable reintegration program for returning OFWs

By Filane Mikee Cervantes, Philippine News Agency

FILE: Despite the ordeal they encountered, the 29th batch of repatriates from Israel composed of 76 Filipinos are all smiles after they landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 at Pasay City this Wednesday afternoon (November 20, 2024). (Photo: Department of Migrant Workers/Facebook)

House Bill 11130 will address the economic, social and psychological challenges the OFWs face upon their return, aiming to ensure a smooth and sustainable transition.

“Our OFWs have long been pillars of our economy, providing essential foreign exchange remittances that fuel the nation’s growth and development,” OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino said in a news release.

“But for many of them, returning home comes with its own set of challenge — finding employment, starting a livelihood, and reuniting with their families after years apart. This bill seeks to provide comprehensive support to make their reintegration smooth, sustainable, and dignified,” she added.

The bill stresses the need for a holistic approach to help returning OFWs, including but not limited to social reintegration, psychosocial and counseling services, livelihood projects, wellness programs, financial literacy programs and other similar projects.

A key provision of the bill is economic empowerment through regular job fairs, livelihood programs, entrepreneurship training and financial assistance via low-interest loans, skills training, and tax incentives for OFW-owned businesses.

A Returnee-OFWs Management Information System shall be established to serve as a database of returnees’ skills, education and experience, facilitating job matching and targeted skills enhancement.

Recognizing the psychological impact of years spent overseas, the bill includes provisions for psychosocial counseling and wellness programs for OFWs and their families.

Magsino noted the importance of addressing emotional challenges, arguing that “sustainable reintegration isn’t just about jobs and money; it’s about restoring social stability and mental well-being.”

Community engagement programs will encourage returnees to actively participate in local development efforts, fostering stronger ties with their communities.

The proposal includes social protection measures with key agencies as implementers such as the Department of Migrant Workers, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration and Department of Social Welfare and Development.

These efforts aim to address the diverse needs of returning OFWs, particularly those who were repatriated due to illegal recruitment, job displacement, or health issues.

Magsino said the bill goes beyond fulfilling the government’s constitutional duty to protect OFWs, as it aims to enable them to remain valuable contributors to the nation’s development.

“Sustainable reintegration allows our OFWs to achieve economic independence, social stability, and mental well-being, giving them the choice to shape their future without being compelled to migrate,” she said.