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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DSWD to provide psychosocial, financial aid to OFWs returning from Middle East

DSWD to provide psychosocial, financial aid to OFWs returning from Middle East

Published Mar 11, 2026 01:58 pm
Photo from Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Facebook page
Photo from Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Facebook page
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has pledged support for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) returning from the Middle East amid the ongoing geopolitical crisis.
DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, spokesperson for DSWD and head of the Disaster Response and Management Group, said several OFWs have already arrived in the country and received assistance coordinated with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and other concerned government agencies.
“The DSWD is coordinating with DMW, OWWA, and other government agencies to ensure the proper and timely delivery of the necessary assistance to our citizens,” Dumlao said.
Among the key services being provided is psychosocial support, as the DSWD recognizes the emotional and psychological impact the conflict may have on returning OFWs.
Upon arrival at the airport, social workers assess the workers to determine the appropriate intervention and support they may require, including stress debriefing sessions, counseling, and interviews conducted by DSWD’s Angels in Red Vests.
The DSWD is also coordinating with the Department of Health to provide further medical attention for OFWs who may need it.
Temporary shelters are available through the Department’s centers and residential care facilities for repatriated OFWs who require a place to stay while arranging travel back to their home provinces, though currently none are staying in these facilities.
Financial assistance is being extended through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, which can cover transportation costs and other immediate needs.
“The DSWD comes in to augment or support the provision of services such as psychosocial support, financial assistance under our Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program, and our Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP),” Dumlao said.
The SLP is designed to help returning OFWs secure income through employment facilitation or microenterprise development.
Beneficiaries can receive job training, assistance in processing pre-employment requirements, and capacity-building training, as well as seed capital for starting small businesses.
Dumlao earlier said nearly 300 repatriated OFWs have already received assistance during the arrival and welcoming activities conducted with DMW, OWWA, and other agencies.

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