OWWA ready to assist OFWs repatriated from Syria

MANILA, Philippines — The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is prepared to assist the more than 200 OFWs who were repatriated from Syria Tuesday.

In an interview over Radyo Inquirer 990AM Wednesday, OWWA Chief Carmelita Dimzon said that OWWA was offering stress debriefing, medical screenings, reintegration programs, and cash assistance to the OFWs.

OWWA Administrator Carmelita Dimzon. Photo from owwa.gov.ph

Dimzon clarified that financial assistance would be given for OFWs who were members of OWWA and whose papers were properly processed by the Philippine Overseas and Employment Agency (POEA).

She added that the other types of assistance would be offered to the OFWs “whether they are properly documented or not.”

She also urged OFWs in Syria to enlist and be repatriated because of the increasing violence in the area.

She said her agency received reports that there were OFWs who remained undecided on their intention to leave the country, saying that they will register then back-out and then register again.

“Urong sulong kaya napakahirap dahil pag sinabi mong gusto mong umuwi sisimulan ang negotiation with employers….Nakakaantala sa aksyon ng embassy and OWWA officials,” she said.