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First OFW global summit tackles growing number of distressed OFWs in Middle East

The first-ever OFW Global Summit, which was held last January 7 in Taguig City, discussed the increasing number of distressed and maltreated overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East as one of its main topics.

Titled “One Voice for Better Rights, Welfare and Protection of our OFWs,” the summit was attended by veteran and young OFW advocates to discuss several problems that OFWs go through as well as the possible solutions that can be done to help solve them.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in particular were urged to exert more effort in order to help distressed, maltreated, abused, and, in some cases, murdered OFWs.

Since the budget for the assistance of distressed OFWs increased, DFA and OWWA were advised to look for more qualified staffs and lawyers who can help OFWs, particularly in the Middle East.

Other issues that were addressed during the summit were financial literacy of OFWs, and reintegration programs for returning OFWs. These issues are essential especially if an OFW will be staying in the Philippines for good.

The summit attendees also agreed that there should be a different government sector for OFWs and other expats.
The first OFW Global Summit was attended by OWWA Administrator Hans Leo Cacdac, PEZA Director General Charito Plaza, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Frank Resma, ACTS-OFW party-list Representative John Bertiz, and President of the Blas F. Ople Center, Susan Ople.

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