Senator Bong Go wants a reintegration framework for returning OFWs

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go filed a measure seeking to establish a reintegration framework for returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and those whose overseas employment contracts have ended.

Go, who serves as Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, said, "Dapat tutukan po natin ang mga pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan na overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

"Siguraduhin na bukas ang ating mga tanggapan para makapagbigay ng agarang tulong sa ating mga OFWs at sa kanilang pamilya," said Go, whose advocacy is to help OFWs.

Go emphasized that genuine support for migrant workers should not stop once their employment abroad concludes.

He said the government should help them reintegrate smoothly into Philippine society through sustainable livelihood and employment opportunities.

"Maraming sakripisyo ang ating mga OFWs. Sila ang tinatawag na mga modernong bayani. Kaya naman responsibilidad ng gobyerno na maging handa at maagap sa pagbibigay ng tulong lalo na sa oras ng pangangailangan," Go said.

The bill also directs the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to organize regular job fairs in strategic locations nationwide

He said returning OFWs should have employment opportunities that match their skills and overseas work experience.

Recognizing the global competence of Filipino workers, the measure further mandates the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to issue certifications or degree diplomas that recognize the education, training, and experience OFWs gained abroad.

"Magtulungan at magmalasakit tayo sa kapwa Pilipino. Huwag nating pabayaan ang ating mga OFWs," the senator expressed.

To strengthen this initiative, the bill requires DOLE to provide capacity-building programs for returning workers who wish to establish their own businesses.

As for their healthcare needs, Go also filed Senate Bill No. 414, which seeks to institutionalize the Overseas Filipino Workers Hospital in San Fernando City, Pampanga, to ensure its long-term operation as a dedicated medical facility for OFWs and their dependents.

"Asahan n'yo po na patuloy kong ipaglalaban ang kapakanan ng ating mga OFWs. Kailangan talaga nakaantabay ang ating gobyerno para hindi mapabayaan ang ating mga kababayan," he assured.

Go has consistently reaffirmed his commitment to migrant workers. He is among the authors and co-sponsors of Republic Act No. 11641, which created the Department of Migrant Workers to ensure better protection and more streamlined services for Filipino migrant workers.

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