Manila Bulletin
Hontiveros seeks Senate probe on government's plans for OFWs affected by pandemic
Senator Risa Hontiveros filed Senate Resolution No. 445, calling for a legislative inquiry into the government's plans and programs for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hontiveros stated that the Department of the Interior and Local Government estimates around 300,000 OFWs are expected to return to the Philippines by the end of the year.
She emphasized the necessity for government programs to address the financial, medical, and mental health needs of returning OFWs and their families.
The senator stressed the importance of comprehensive reintegration programs, including financial aid, mental health services, and COVID-19 related medical assistance such as mandatory testing.
Hontiveros also highlighted the need for a long-term government plan, particularly for livelihood assistance, given the uncertainty of many OFWs' return to overseas employment.
The resolution also calls for social and mental health support for the families of OFWs dealing with their loved ones' return and reintegration.
Over 50,000 migrant workers have already been repatriated amid the global health crisis, according to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
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Senator Joel Villanueva urges the government to intensify reintegration programs for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) returning to the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. has filed Senate Resolution 448, calling for a Senate inquiry into the government's repatriation process for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Senator Bong Go is urging for the immediate passage of a bill that would create a Department of Overseas Filipino Workers (DOFW) to better address the needs of OFWs affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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As of last night, since May 15, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has facilitated the return of 43,000 displaced overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to their home provinces.
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Malacañang expressed sadness over the death of a Filipino cruise ship worker who allegedly committed suicide while waiting for repatriation.
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