The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has announced a landmark year of growth, marked by a substantial increase in its financial reserves and a significant expansion of its membership base, solidifying its role as the primary welfare partner for millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
Record Growth in Trust Fund and Membership
In a media briefing held in Pasay City on Friday, January 16, 2026, OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan revealed impressive figures for the past year. The agency's trust fund grew by PHP1 billion, rising from PHP20.3 billion at the end of December 2024 to PHP21.3 billion by the close of 2025.
Concurrently, OWWA membership saw a sharp rise from 2 million to 2.6 million members, representing a gain of 600,000 OFWs who have placed their trust in the agency's programs. Caunan attributed this growth to the honest and transparent management of the fund, which she stated is OWWA's foremost mandate.
"We are grateful for the trust our OFWs have placed in OWWA, which they see as their partner not only when they have problems, but also in planning their lives upon their return to the Philippines," Administrator Caunan said.
Expanding "Alagang OWWA" Services and Global Reach
The administrator detailed several key initiatives under the enhanced "Alagang OWWA" program designed to bring services closer to OFWs worldwide. These expansions include:
- The establishment of dedicated OFW Lounges and a Seafarer Welfare Center.
- Regional offices equipped with free clinics and pharmacies.
- Enhanced global centers in Hong Kong and Taipei offering legal aid, health services, and upskilling programs.
- Regular OFW Serbisyo Caravans conducted in partnership with the Department of Migrant Workers and other agencies like the LTO, SSS, and PSA to deliver government services directly to workers.
Caunan also emphasized plans to improve the 1348 hotline by adding more trained personnel to ensure all OFWs and their families can efficiently access assistance.
Historic Boost for Scholarships and Livelihood Programs
In a major development for OFW families, Caunan announced a historic increase in the agency's scholarship program for OFW dependents. The number of available slots will be increased by 10,000, adding to the existing 15,000 slots.
To make the benefit accessible to more families, the eligibility income threshold has been raised from USD600 to USD1,000 in monthly household income. For OFWs themselves, upskilling and livelihood programs will now include training allowances of up to PHP10,000 per month for courses such as caregiving.
"Our priority is the welfare of OFWs and their families, from emergency repatriation to training, scholarships, and reintegration," Caunan reaffirmed. "OWWA’s growth reflects the trust OFWs have in our programs, and we remain committed to managing these resources prudently while expanding services that directly benefit them and their families."
