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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Magsino bats for expanded use of OFWs' emergency repatriation funds

Magsino bats for expanded use of OFWs' emergency repatriation funds

Published Nov 8, 2023 04:00 pm

At A Glance

  • OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa "Del Mar" Magsino wants to expand the coverage of emergency repatriation funds to further address the emerging needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). 

FB_IMG_1689237055836.jpgOFW Party-list Rep. Marissa "Del Mar" Magsino (Facebook)

OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa "Del Mar" Magsino wants to expand the coverage of emergency repatriation funds to further address the emerging needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

Magsino filed House Bill (HB) No. 9388, which sought to amend Republic Act (RA) No. 8042, or the “Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act”.

Under the present law, emergency funds are only intended for the repatriation of OFWs in cases of war, epidemics, disasters, and similar events.

However, Magsino explained that “The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a broader approach to support OFWs during challenging times.”

Under HB No.9388, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) would gain wider authority in the utilization of the emergency funds and its repatriation mandate. This would include the establishment of temporary shelters abroad for distressed OFWs and halfway houses during their transit in the country.

“This initiative aims to reduce government expenses on commercial accommodations while ensuring the safety and comfort of OFWs during their stay,” the lawmaker said in a statement.

Magsino pointed out that current shelters in host countries of OFWs are often congested, resulting in unsafe and inhumane living conditions.

Currently, there are only 24 migrant workers’ temporary shelters worldwide, 14 of which are in the Middle East, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

The OFW solon also noted the need for effective allocation of resources as emergency repatriation funds continue to accumulate significant balances.

“Ang laki ng pondong natitira sa ERF (emergency repatriation funds) subalit hindi magamit ng OWWA para sa ibang pangangailangan ng mga OFWs dahil restricted ito ng batas,” said Magsino.

(Despite the hugw amount of funds left in the ERF, OWWA cannot use it for the other needs of OFWs because it is restricted by law.)

“Sayang ang pondo. Kaya’t kailangan natin ibagay ang batas sa mga nagsisilabasang pangangailangan sa repatriation process”.

(It's a waste of funds. So we need to adapt the law to the emerging needs in the repatriation process.)

Additionally, amid the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, Magsino reassured OFWs and their families that OFW Party-list waa ready to help them.

“Your safety and well-being are our highest priorities, and we will continue to work tirelessly to offer the necessary assistance to you and your families,” she said.

Related Tags

Israel marissa magsino ofw Party-list
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