National Reintegration Program for OFWs

A report from the Department of Labor and Employments (DOLE) reports that since the launching of the P2-billion National Reintegration Program Fund for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) last year, the DOLE, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO)—continue to receive inquiries not only on what the program is all about, but also on how to avail of a reintegration loan.

The P2-billion reintegration program is a special loan program of the OWWA in partnership with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and the Landbank of the Philippines to support enterprise development among OFWs and their families.

This program is open to all active members of the OWWA and to those who have completed the Entrepreneurial Development Training conducted by the NRCO and the OWWA-Regional Welfare Officers in cooperation with the DTI, Philippine Trade Training Center, and Bureau of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development.

Borrowers can avail of a short-term loan, which can be paid within a year, or a term loan, payable based on the cash flow but not to exceed seven years, inclusive of the maximum two-year grace period on the capital.

The loanable amount, which is 80 percent of the total project cost, ranges from a minimum of P300,000 to a maximum of P2,000,000. It carries a fixed interest rate of 7.5 percent per annum for the duration of the loan.

The borrowed amount can be used either as working capital or for acquisition of fixed assets needed for business operations. However, the program requires that the proposed project should have a ready market and should generate a monthly income of at least P10,000.

 

In response to inquiries, the Labor Communications Office issued the following guidelines for all interested OFWs and their families, based on the information provided by the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) that administers the loan.

Applicants interested to avail of a reintegration loan should secure and submit the following documentary requirements to ensure smooth processing of their loan application:

• OWWA certification that the borrower is a bona fide overseas worker and has completed the Enterprise Development Training;
• A business plan on the specific project that will generate income for the OFW and his/her family;
• If OFW is engaging in a contract growing arrangement, purchase order, or service contract, a contract growing agreement, a purchase order, or a service contract, if applicable, is necessary;
• Certificate of Registration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI);
• Biodata;
• Mayor’s permit;
• Income Tax Return for the last three years, if applicable;
• Financial statements filed with the Bureau of Internal Revenue for the last three years, if applicable;
• Latest interim financial statement, if applicable; and
• Statement of assets and liabilities.

Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, who has urged OFWs to avail of a loan under the P2-billion Reintegration Program Fund, said the program is in pursuit of Item No. 15 of the President’s 22-Point Agenda on Labor and Employment. The program aims to maximize the gains of overseas employment, mitigate the social costs of migration, and cushion the impact of forced repatriation due to unexpected events.

“The program cuts across the social protection pillar of the Decent Work Agenda in which the Labor and Employment Plan 2011-2016 is anchored,” she said, adding:

“OFWs are still the country’s heroes even if they [are] already here in the Philippines. The country needs them, this time, as entrepreneurs who will initiate business undertakings that will boost the country’s economy and at the same time provide employment for the community.”

Baldoz assured OFWs that they have a bright future in the country even after their return, with resources and support coming from the government.

“Coupled with hard work and determination, anybody can succeed in securing a good life for his or her family, and will never have to work miles apart,” she finally said.

Have questions about this release? To know more about the National Reintegration Program for OFWs, please visit the NRCO at Victoria corner Solana Streets, OWWA Bldg., Intramuros, Manila, or call them at telephone number (02) 526-239. To know more about the loan, please visit the nearest OWWA office, or any LBP or DBP branch in your area.