The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) reported growth in both its trust fund and membership as it vowed to expand services for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
During a media briefing in Pasay City on Friday, Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan said OWWA’s trust fund grew by PHP1 billion, from P20.3 billion in December 2024 to P21.3 billion by end-2025, while membership increased from 2 million to 2.6 million.
“The reason for this is, of course, the honest and transparent management of the OWWA Trust Fund, and that is OWWA's first and foremost mandate,” she said.
“We are grateful for the trust our OFWs have placed in OWWA, which they see as their partner not only when they have problems, but also in planning their lives upon their return to the Philippines,” she added.
Caunan highlighted new initiatives under the “Alagang OWWA” program, including OFW Lounges, a Seafarer Welfare Center, regional offices with free clinics and pharmacies, and expanded global centers in Hong Kong and Taipei offering legal aid, health services, and upskilling programs.
She also cited OFW Serbisyo Caravans, conducted with the Department of Migrant Workers and other agencies, which bring government services directly to OFWs.
OWWA will add 10,000 scholarship slots for OFW children, raising the total to 25,000, and increase the income eligibility ceiling from $600 to $1,000 monthly to make the program more accessible.
For OFWs, upskilling and livelihood programs will include training allowances of up to P10,000 per month for professional courses such as caregiving.
Caunan said OWWA is also strengthening support for distressed and medically ill OFWs by improving the 1348 hotline through additional trained personnel.
“Our priority is the welfare of OFWs and their families, from emergency repatriation to training, scholarships, and reintegration,” she said.
“OWWA’s growth reflects the trust OFWs have in our programs, and we remain committed to managing these resources prudently while expanding services that directly benefit them and their families,” she added.
