Solon to Duterte: Extend 'Bayanihan' law programs to distressed OFWs

The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) is urging President Rodrigo Duterte to include displaced overseas Filipino workers in the social amelioration and adjustment programs authorized under the law granting him special authority to respond to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) health situation.

“We must include OFWs in the Bayanihan [to Heal As One] Act coverage. Many were displaced due to travel bans and closed borders. Many lost jobs and many OFW breadwinners cannot remit money home," said TUCP party-list Representative Raymond Democrito Mendoza.

According to Mendoza, the Bayanihan to Heal As One Act, which Duterte signed into law on Tuesday, does not provide for budget augmentation for programs targeted at providing livelihood and employment assistance to displaced OFWs.

Citing information from the Department of Labor and Employment, he said there are already 3,169 displaced OFWs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"But the DOLE and DFA social amelioration and assistance programs for OFWs can also be given priority by the President, as these are imperative to address their needs and that of their families," Mendoza said.

The lawmaker urged the President to set aside funds for OFW subsidy and increase its allocation of P10,000 to P15,000 per month during the period of the enhanced community quarantine.

He likewise called on the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration to boost its income and livelihood programs for returning OFWs.

“The one-time payment of P10,000 is not enough to provide for their needs while the livelihood programs may not match the skills set of the OFW,” Mendoza said.

Data from the Department of Foreign Affairs show that a total of 169 Filipinos abroad have already been infected with the novel coronavirus, of which two have already died.

Most of the infected OFWs are from the Asia Pacific Region, with 111 reported cases while 20 cases each were reported in Europe and America and 18 in the Middle East.

Of the number, 90 have recovered or been discharged while 77 are still undergoing treatment.

As of March 24,  the Philippines has 552 COVID-19 cases,  20 recoveries, and 35 deaths. —Erwin Colcol/LBG, GMA News