Owwa ready to evacuate Filipinos in South Korea

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (Owwa) yesterday said its contingency plans were in place and it was ready to evacuate Filipinos in South Korea, if necessary.

“If it’s needed, the government is ready, the Owwa is ready,” Administrator Carmelita Dimzon told reporters.

Dimzon said there were 19,876 active Owwa members in South Korea but there were also an undetermined number of illegals there.

“In times of crisis, there are provisions for repatriation and all that’s needed can be provided. All the contingency measures are in place so there is no reason for them (Filipinos) to fear, even their families,” she said.

Dimzon said those displaced could be assisted by Owwa in looking for new jobs in other countries. They could also be beneficiaries of the government’s P2-billion reintegration program, which teaches them extra skills and  helps them become entrepreneurs.