OWWA opens online rebate portal for OFWs

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) will now be able to check their eligibility for the rebate program of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) through its newly launched online portal.

The OWWA Rebate Portal allows qualified member-OFWs to set an appointment to the nearest OWWA office that will process their benefit.

Those who have been members for at least 10 years with five or more contributions as of December 31, 2017 and who have not availed of any program or benefit from OWWA are qualified to get rebates. The beneficiary of a deceased OFW who would have qualified are also eligible to get the rebate.

Once an appointment has been set through the online portal, a code will be sent to the member via SMS. The member will present this code on the date of their appointment.

Verification of documentary requirements at the OWWA office will follow and the rebate will be deposited to the bank account of the beneficiary.

Qualified OFWs may claim rebates ranging from P941.25 to P13,177.50, depending on the number of their contributions.

"The amount of the rebate can also be donated by the beneficiaries to the Tuloy-Aral Project (TAP) of OWWA to help send kids of less fortunate OFWs to school. It can also be used as payment for the renewal of OWWA membership for OFWs who still have active employment contract abroad," the OWWA said.

The Rebate Program was implemented in compliance with the OWWA Act which provides for the granting of rebates to its long-time members.

OWWA earmarked P1 billion from its fund for the rebate program which is seen to benefit 556,000 OFWs. — Dona Magsino/BM, GMA News