The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) continues to expand its programs and services to better support overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families, ensuring that they receive the assistance and protection they need.

During a Palace press briefing on Friday, OWWA Administrator Arnell Ignacio said the agency outlined key initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of OFWs in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize their needs.

Ignacio said that among the initiatives of OWWA are the Migrant’s Brew Coffee Shop that is available in all 17 OWWA offices nationwide, with free coffee for OFWs who discuss their concerns; AYOS Truck or the Assistance to OFW Families in Situations Truck, a mobile response unit equipped with Wi-Fi access, kitchen, shower and generator, deployed to disaster-hit areas to help OFW families connect with their loved ones abroad; and Seafarer’s Hub that serves as a halfway center for seafarers preparing their documents, with 24/7 access to food, legal assistance and protection from illegal recruiters.

Ignacio also noted the OWWA 1348 Hotline, which receives calls for assistance and complaints from OFWs and their families.

“We’d like to emphasize that the problems of OFWs, tuluy-tuloy iyan. Hindi naman talaga mai-eliminate iyan (are continuous and cannot be eliminated) totally and absolutely. But the great difference now is, government answers, government works and government acts swiftly,” he said.

Ignacio assured OFWs that the government remains committed to listening, responding and acting swiftly to address their needs by expanding programs, improving services, and rapidly responding to their concerns. (PNA)