More than Php 304 million worth of assistance and services was reported for over 10,000 overseas Filipino workers and their families under the 2026 Handog ng Pangulo program.
Figures from the September 14 nationwide activity showed 10,177 beneficiaries, with combined DMW and OWWA expenses reaching Php 304,103,971.24.
The wider Handog ng Pangulo program brought several government agencies together to provide employment, livelihood, welfare, health, education, and other services across the Philippines. The Department of Labor and Employment said the nationwide activity was held in different provinces and cities on September 14.
DMW Support Reached More Than Php 214 Million
The Department of Migrant Workers accounted for 5,449 beneficiaries and about Php 214.34 million in reported assistance.
The largest share went through the AKSYON Fund, which covered 3,116 beneficiaries and around Php 181.43 million.
Another Php 32.905 million was reported for livelihood assistance benefiting 2,149 people.
The program also included medical assistance, livelihood awards, OFW help desks, and employment-related services.
OWWA Provided Nearly Php 90 Million
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration reported 4,728 beneficiaries and around Php 89.77 million in expenses.
Among the biggest programs was Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay, which assisted 2,627 beneficiaries with Php 43.705 million.
Another 1,731 people received help through the Welfare Assistance Program.
OWWA also provided disability and death benefits, livelihood support, scholarships, and other reintegration assistance.
OWWA officially lists social benefits, education and training, reintegration, repatriation, and other programs among its regular services for OFWs and their families.
What Saudi OFWs Should Know
For OFWs in Saudi Arabia who are planning to return to the Philippines, the figures show that government support is not limited to emergency assistance.
Programs may also cover livelihood, reintegration, education, and welfare support, depending on eligibility.
OFWs and their families should check directly with DMW or OWWA for current requirements and available programs before applying.