New Support Initiatives Launched for Returning OFWs
The Philippine government is stepping up its efforts to assist overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning from the Middle East, particularly those fleeing conflict-stricken regions. Acting Secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Francis Tolentino, has announced a collaborative strategy with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). This partnership is designed to provide seamless reintegration services, focusing on professional upskilling and career placement to help these workers successfully transition back into the local economy.
Beyond traditional employment, the government is also prioritizing entrepreneurship as a viable path for returnees. Tolentino noted that DOLE and TESDA are prepared to offer specialized livelihood assistance to individuals or groups looking to launch small businesses. This broader initiative, which aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s recent commitment to bolstering job creation, will be further supported by a series of nationwide monthly job fairs starting in September 2026. These combined efforts aim to ensure that returning OFWs have sustainable and diverse opportunities to thrive upon their homecoming.