Former overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have been displaced due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic will be prioritized for job vacancies under the "Build, Build, Build" infrastructure projects of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
The MOU says that displaced OFWs will be provided with employment opportunities in the DOTr through seamless reintegration.
The move was made in recognition of the sacrifices of the so-called "modern heroes"--the OFWs--particularly those who have been forced to return home due to the effects of the global pandemic.
"This agreement will serve a dual purpose. First, our repatriated OFWs who are out of work will be able to work under the DOTr. They no longer need to go out of the country because work is here at home. Second, we will not be looking elsewhere in getting the needed workforce to finish various infrastructure projects," Tugade said during Monday's virtual ceremony.
Under the MOU, the DOTr will provide the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) with a list of vacant positions and skills requirements that an OFW can apply for work. The DOTr will likewise inform OWWA of other projects that may benefit OFWs.
The OWWA is an attached agency of DOLE.
Tugade cited as an example the 200 former OFWs who are now employed in the PNR Clark Phase 1 Project. The DOTr chief added that 2,000 additional jobs will be made available to both OFWs and displaced public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and conductors once the project becomes operational.
Tugade underscored that there are a lot of employment opportunities in the DOTr through Build, Build, Build. As such, he called on the displaced OFWs to avail of the local vacancies.
"Nariyan ang mga proyekto sa riles, paliparan, kalsada, ports projects. Andito ang oportunidad. Pumasok kayo at gamitin ang oportunidad na nandito (There are many projects in our railways, airports, roads, and ports. Make use and take advantage of the opportunities here),” he said.