At least 18 displaced and distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Socksargen region were given P20,000 each from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
According to OWWA Region XII, those provided with cash assistance were beneficiaries of the Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay (BPBH) program.
Regional Director Marilou M. Sumalinog explained that the OWWA's BPBH program is intended to help all returning OFWs who suffered unfortunate employment, harassment, and maltreatment from their employers abroad.
Apart from providing livelihood, Sumalinog said they are also facilitating partnerships with other government institutions to help further the OFWs and their families in the form of training and skills enhancement.
"This will be a combination of training and production intervention program that will give our dear OFWs the opportunity to find productive means and establish sustainable livelihood ventures," said Sumalinog.
The BPBH is a flagship program of OWWA intended to provide immediate relief to returning distressed or displaced OFWs.
Qualified proponents, whether active or inactive members of OWWA, are entitled to receive up to P20,000.00 start-up capital for their livelihood.