The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Caraga Regional Office distributed P1.09 million in reintegration assistance to 62 returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) during a ceremony held on July 6 at the DMW Caraga Conference Hall in Butuan City.
The assistance was released through the agency’s Sa Pinas, Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir (SPIMS) and Enhanced Livelihood Program for OFW Reintegration (ELPOR).
Under the SPIMS program, 32 former OFWs who are now regular teachers with the Department of Education (DepEd) each received Teaching Kits worth P20,000, for a total of P640,000.
DMW said the teaching kits will help the beneficiaries purchase laptops, printers, and other instructional materials needed for their classrooms.
Meanwhile, 30 returning OFWs received P15,000 each under the ELPOR, amounting to P450,000, to help them start or expand small businesses and build sustainable sources of livelihood.
Before the distribution, the Welfare and Reintegration Services Division held a Kumustahan Session, where beneficiaries shared their experiences, sacrifices, and aspirations after years of working abroad.
DMW Caraga Regional Director Ritchel Butao reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting returning OFWs through reintegration programs that provide career opportunities, livelihood assistance, and resources to help them rebuild their lives, strengthen their families, and contribute to their communities.