In recent years, there’s been a steady increase in the number of returning OFWs. This can be seen as a positive development, but there are challenges that come with it. One challenge involves the financial stability of OFWs and their reintegration back into Philippine society.
It is a major transition to return home after working abroad. It comes with a sense of uncertainty, as manyr returning OFWs have a hard time finding new jobs or restarting their lives. To address these concerns, the Philippine government has started several programs like Tulong PUSO that can support returning OFWs. This article will look at several other reintegration programs in more detail.
Reintegration: A Crucial Step for Returning OFWs
So what is reintegration? It is the process of reinserting migrants into the social, economic, and cultural environment they left behind. When OFWs come home, they have to adapt back to the local economy and lifestyle which is quite challenging. This is not a small feet to many OFWs, some of which have been gone for decades.
According to the International Labor Organization (ILO, 2019), when an OFW successfully reintegrates, he or she can not only themselves but also their family and the economy as a whole. Proper reintegration ensures a smooth transition back into their communities.
The Role of Tulong PUSO in Livelihood Development
One of the primary reintegration programs designed to support OFWs is Tulong PUSO, which stands for “Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-unlad ng Samahang OFWs.” This livelihood-oriented program was launched by the Philippine government to provide financial support to returning OFWs looking to start or expand small businesses. It aims to assist OFWs and their families by giving them opportunities to develop entrepreneurial ventures.
Some key features of the Tulong PUSO program include:
- Livelihood Grants: These grants are designed to provide immediate relief and help OFWs establish small businesses.
- Entrepreneurship Training: For many OFWs, starting a business may seem daunting. That’s why the program includes training to help them learn the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, from financial management to marketing strategies.
- Access to Networks: Tulong PUSO helps OFWs connect with local business networks and support organizations.
The Role of Government Agencies in Reintegration
Several government agencies work together to help OFWs reintegrate into society. Each agency plays a unique role, and the list below summarizes these roles:
- Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE): DOLE’s Reintegration Services offer training programs specifically designed to meet the needs of returning OFWs, particularly those affected by job loss or natural calamities. These services include:
- Livelihood assistance and enhancement
- Skills training
- Local reemployment opportunities
- Entrepreneurship development
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA): OWWA is another critical player in helping OFWs reintegrate. They provide social services, financial management support, and entrepreneurial services. One of their notable programs is the Balik-Pinas, Balik-Hanapbuhay Program, which provides non-cash livelihood support to displaced OFWs.
- National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO): The NRCO works to connect returning OFWs with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local government units (LGUs). Their role is to help OFWs find suitable livelihood opportunities or assist in starting or expanding their businesses.
- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA): TESDA offers skills training programs tailored for returning OFWs. These programs help equip returnees with updated skills, increasing their chances of finding better jobs or starting a business. TESDA has also established OFW desks at various international airports to assist returnees in accessing reintegration services.
- Department of Agriculture (DA): For OFWs interested in agribusiness, the DA provides support through training and project grants. Many returning OFWs come from agricultural backgrounds, and agribusiness offers a viable option for reintegration. Programs are designed to help them access funding and guidance to start or expand their farming ventures.
- Department of Trade and Industry (DTI): DTI, in collaboration with OWWA, promotes entrepreneurship among OFWs. Their joint programs help returning OFWs start small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), allowing them to generate income and contribute to the local economy.
The Challenges Faced by Returning OFWs
Despite the efforts of the government, there are still challenges. These include:
- Financial Instability: Many OFWs come home without substantial savings. Despite working abroad for years, several factors have hindered them from saving enough money. These factors include high costs of living and remittance obligations back in the Philippines.
- Job Opportunities: Returning to the Philippines does not guarantee immediate employment. OFWs often struggle to find jobs, especially those without updated skills or educational qualifications.
- Business Risks: While Tulong PUSO encourages entrepreneurship, not all OFWs are prepared to handle the risks of starting a business. There is always the possibility of business failure, especially for those who lack experience.
- Psychological Adjustment: The psychological impact of returning home after many years abroad can be immense. Some OFWs face stress and anxiety as they reintegrate into their communities, especially if they are returning under challenging circumstances.
Tulong PUSO: Awareness, Challenges, and Impact
Awareness of the Tulong PUSO program remains a crucial issue. The government actively promotes their programs, but still a lot of OFWs remain unfamiliar with them. That’s why its important for the government to improve outreach and education about these opportunities.
The challenges in implementing the Tulong PUSO program also revolve around bureaucracy, the accessibility of funds, and the preparedness of OFWs to venture into business. Nonetheless, for those who do avail of the program, the impact can be life-changing. Many OFWs have successfully transitioned from employees abroad to entrepreneurs at home, using the knowledge and experience they gained while working overseas.
Any reintegration program can be successful if there is proper and effective collaboration between the government, private sector and the returning OFWs themselves. The programs made by the government are headed in the right direction, but they need financial support. OFWs need to be informed about these government programs so that the full impact of these government initiatives can be felt.