DMW eyes more funds for OFW assistance services

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Thursday said it is targeting to have more funds in 2024 as it takes over the function of providing assistance services to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

In a press briefing, DMW Undersecretary Hans Cacdac said lawmakers have expressed support for the Department’s additional funds for 2024.

“It requires more funding. That's why sa 2024 budget we hope to have more. We're praying very hard. Of course, many legislators naman have been very supportive,” he said.

“Just came from Dubai and Geneva with [Senator Raffy Tulfo] who publicly has stated that he will push for higher funding for the DMW. He is the chair of the committee on migrant workers. So goes with Chairman, [Kabayan Party-list Representative Ron Salo] on the congressional side,” he added.

Starting July 1, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will be turning over Assistance-To-Nationals functions (ATN) for OFWs to the DMW.

With the takeover, the DMW will also manage the P1.08 billion AKSYON Fund for the legal and humanitarian assistance for OFWs.

However, Cacdac pointed out that most of this fund will be transferred directly to OFW beneficiaries.

Cacdac said the additional funds are for the hiring of more personnel as well as DMW’s maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOEs).

The operational guidelines in connection with the transition of the OFW assistance function to DMW shall be issued next week, according to Cacdac.

In a "24 Oras" report, DMW said those seeking assistance, can visit DMW Philippines offices in the country they are in or they call its hotline 1348 or visit its Facebook page.

Moreover, DFA said as of 2022, a total of 6,467 OFWs were given legal assistance and the agency expects DMW to help more as it provides humanitarian assistance for OFWs.—Joviland Rita/ VAL, GMA Integrated News