The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 3 Office has announced that Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) may now avail loans of up to ₱5 million under its financing programs. The announcement was made during the Regional Reintegration Network Fair held at SM City Pampanga on Labor Day.
Loan Details and Benefits
The financing support is part of the ₱4-billion Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Business Fund. Key features include zero-collateral loans, a one-year grace period, and an interest rate of 1 percent per month on a diminishing balance. This program aims to provide returning OFWs and aspiring entrepreneurs with capital to start or expand their businesses.
Reintegration Services and Support
The fair, organized by the Department of Migrant Workers, brought together various government agencies to deliver reintegration services. These include livelihood assistance, employment support, and enterprise development. DTI-3, through its booth, facilitated access to these loan programs via its financing arm, the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp). It also provided business advisory sessions and registration services for new enterprises.
DTI Regional Director Edna Dizon stated that the program will assist OFWs in building sustainable businesses and transitioning to entrepreneurship upon returning home. The DTI Region III said it will continue to promote loan facilities, alongside mentoring and market access support, to strengthen economic opportunities for OFWs and MSMEs.
How to Apply
Interested applicants may visit Negosyo Centers or DTI provincial offices for more information on loan requirements and application procedures. The program is designed to empower OFWs and contribute to the growth of local enterprises.
