The Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are called ‘Modern-Day Heroes’ because of their sacrifices and contributions not only to their families but also to the economy of our home country. And if they are in trouble, it is only just that the Philippine government prioritizes their safety and well-being. One of these programs is called Disability and Dismemberment Assistance.
Disability and Dismemberment Assistance is a program under the Welfare Assistance Program (WAP). This program provides financial assistance to active OWWA members who were victims of crimes or accidents. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) offers a variety of programs and services to cover the needs of OFWs and their families.
OWWA Initiative
Nobody in this world wants to be a victim of a crime or accident, however, these things happen every day. The Disability and Dismemberment program was created to help OFWs who are suffering from a partial or complete disability or dismemberment. Here are the reasons why this program was created:
- Protect the well-being of the OFWs
- The number of work-related accidents that can cause partial or permanent disabilities goes up every year.
- Financial Assistance
- A disability and dismemberment can cause difficulty in doing one’s task and this can lead to losing a job.
- Reintegration and Rehabilitation
- The OWWA provides medical care, rehabilitation, and skills training, and prepares them to go back in society and workforce.
Disability and Dismemberment Benefits
OFWs who were involved in accidents or a crime can apply to Disability and Dismemberment program. They will receive monetary grants that they can use in rehabilitation and treatment.
- Partial Disability – Php 2,500 to Php 25,000
- Complete Permanent Disability – Php 50,000 – Php 100,000
Disability and Dismemberment Qualifications
The OWWA created the Disability and Dismemberment for Active Members of OWWA who suffered from accidents or crimes. Land-Based and Sea-Based OFWs are welcome to apply. Disability and dismemberment caused by illnesses or prior accidents are not covered in this program.
Disability and Dismemberment Requirements
Applicants must provide the documents required by OWWA when applying to this program.
For Land-Based and Sea-Based OFWs:
- OFW Membership Record (MR)
- One 1×1 ID photo
- Copy of passport
- Accident Report from the OFWs’ employer
- Medical Certificate
- The medical certificate must come from a legitimate and recognized medical institution or facility. It must be translated into English if written in other languages and include detailed medical conditions and suitability.
- Medical Certificate and Examination Documents
- The medical certificate must be issued by a physician based in the Philippines and must have done the following examination:
- X-ray
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI
- Computed Tomography Scan or CT scan
- Other medical examination
- The medical certificate must be issued by a physician based in the Philippines and must have done the following examination:
Additional requirements for Sea-Based OFWs:
- Copy of Seaman’s Identification Record Book (SIRB)
- Master’s Report
Additional requirements for authorized representative:
- Letter of authorization from an OFW
- Valid government-issued identification document of the OFW
- Valid government-issued identification document of the representative
Be sure that all documentary requirements are in your possession. Incomplete documents will lead to rejection of your application.
Disability and Dismemberment Application
Once you have gathered all the documentary requirements, you are now ready to apply for this program. Some Philippine government offices do not accept walk-in applicants and require a booked appointment. You may contact the nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) or Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO) and book an appointment with them. Once you secure an appointment, follow these easy steps that will guide you in your application.
Step 1: Go to the nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) where your permanent home address is. If the OFW is still abroad, go to the nearest Philippine Overseas Labor Offices in your host country.
Step 2: Get a queueing number and wait to be called.
Step 3: Once called, present your OWWA Membership Record (MR) or OFW identification card to the Membership Verification Desk or Social Benefits Unit.
Step 4: Submit your application form and all the documentary requirements you have gathered. The OWWA officers will assess and evaluate your documents.
Step 5: Once approved, you will be given a claim stub. Use the claim stub to get financial assistance through a check or cash payout.
Step 6: Once you have the check, proceed to the Cashier-Releasing Window and present your identification document.
Applicants will receive a tracking number or reference number to track the status of their application. Applicants must also provide an updated contact number to receive messages from OWWA regarding their application. The application process takes two (2) weeks upon applying.
Video: OWWA’s Disability and Dismemberment benefit at Death and Burial benefits pinaliwanag na detalyado
This video by Lito Abadilla Vlog gives a detailed explanation of the Disability and Dismemberment Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Disability and Dismemberment Program?
The Disability and Dismemberment Program aims to provide financial aid to active OWWA members who suffer from partial or complete disability.
Who is eligible to apply for the Disability and Dismemberment Program?
The Disability and Dismemberment Program is offered to all OWWA active members.
What are the benefits of the Disability and Dismemberment Program?
The Disability and Dismemberment provides cash assistance for:
- Partial Disability – Php 2,500 to Php 25,000
- Complete Permanent Disability – Php 50,000 – Php 100,000
How will I know if my application has been approved?
Applicants will receive a call, SMS, or email from OWWA about the status of their applications.
How long is the application process?
The application process for the Disability and Dismemberment Program is two (2) weeks.
Summary
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) acknowledges the hardship of all Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) they want to make sure that OFWs are taken care of in times of need. No one wants to be a victim but it is good to know that there is a program that will help victims of crimes and accidents.
All OFWs need to be part of the OWWA membership because of the programs and services they can receive. The OWWA keeps on improving their policies and services for the benefit of the OFWs and their families so make sure that you are part of this development and enjoy the perks of being a member.