Philippines – Overseas Filipino workers whose OWWA membership has lapsed may still be able to get financial help. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) runs the Welfare Assistance Program (WAP), which gives cash relief to qualified active and inactive members and their families. It is meant for those who don’t qualify under OWWA’s other social benefit programs.
According to a report, WAP can provide relief during disasters, a death in the family, disability, illness, and job loss. This is welcome news for OFWs who assumed an expired membership meant no support during hard times.
What Situations Are Covered Under WAP?
OWWA names five types of assistance under the program:
- Calamity assistance: For families hit by natural or human-caused disasters, crises, or emergencies. Examples include typhoons, earthquakes, flooding, and political unrest.
- Bereavement assistance: For families of deceased OWWA members who are not covered by the regular death and burial benefit.
- Disability assistance: For OFWs who became disabled because of a crime or an accident.
- Medical assistance: For illnesses not covered by OWWA’s MEDPlus program.
- Relief assistance: For members displaced or laid off in large numbers because of economic, political, or health crises, company bankruptcy, or similar events.
Lapsed Membership Doesn’t Automatically Bar You From Benefits
OWWA describes WAP as assistance for “active or non-active members and/or their families.” That wording gives inactive members a real chance at support.
Still, inactive status does not guarantee approval. Eligibility depends on several factors:
- Your specific situation
- The type of assistance you are requesting
- Whether another OWWA benefit already covers you
There is also no single, fixed cash amount for all WAP cases. The amount varies by category and by the details of each case. Applicants should check the required documents for their category before filing, since a calamity claim may need different papers than a medical or bereavement claim.
How OFWs Abroad Can Reach OWWA for Guidance
OFWs in Dubai and the Northern Emirates can contact OWWA Dubai at the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Al Qusais:
- Hotline: +971 50 558 5536
- Email: dubai@owwa.gov.ph
This office handles welfare concerns, membership, reintegration programs, and other OWWA services.
Families in the Philippines can call the OWWA 24/7 Hotline at 1348 for help.
If you or a loved one is facing a crisis, reach out to OWWA early. A quick call or email can confirm whether you qualify and what you need to prepare. Even with an expired membership, help may still be available.