An assessment is underway to determine if there are families of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have been affected by the recent massive floods that hit Metro Manila and nearby areas, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) said on Tuesday.
In an interview, OWWA chief Arnell Ignacio said the agency has initially provided food packs and medical assistance to calamity-affected areas.
Ignacio said they are coordinating with local government units (LGUs) to assess the kind of assistance to be given to affected OFWs and their families.
“Malinaw na karagdagang complementary service into sa na bigay ng DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) at (It is clear that this is only a complementary service to the aid given by the DSWD and) LGUs. As we speak, inaayos na ‘yan kasi iche-check mo kung sino talaga ang mabibigyan (we are still arranging this to check who should get assistance),” he said on the sidelines of the agency’s acceptance of its ISO 9001:2015 recertification from Certification International Philippines Inc. at the Grand Westside Hotel in Parañaque City.
The latest data from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that over 4 million individuals have been affected while 39 people died from the effects of the bad weather — 15 of whom are from the National Capital Region.
Meanwhile, Ignacio lauded OWWA personnel for their commitment to maintaining high-quality service for the welfare of every OFW.
“OWWA will also continue to collaborate with other government agencies to seek ways to improve the lives of our Filipino workers abroad,” he said.
During the event, Ignacio outlined numerous projects planned for 2025, which include the establishment of more lounges and hubs for OFWs at various transit points in the country, which are similar to the OFW Lounges at NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 and the Seafarers’ Hub in Manila.
The agency is also planning to set up ‘Member Ako’ Lounge Hubs at international posts to serve OFWs overseas.
The ISO 9001:2015 Certification is recognized as an ‘International Standard’ for Quality Management Systems and serves as a ‘framework’ for organizations and agencies to ensure the delivery of the highest level of service quality to the public. (PNA)
