SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
¥j's 11'1'l,u t (' 
;_,;_;! {Qlhf!.' l1ft~~,;,;'>:r~Fbf,~ 
OF YHI;: PHllIPPINI;$ 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
JIll -1 
A 9 :15 
SENATE 
--------
Introduced by SENATOR JINGGOY EJERClrO ESTRADA 
------------------
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The State is duty bound to strengthen the support and protection it accords the 
adv@Gt;lme.nt of the welfare of ovefse.as Filipil1Q wQrkElfs (QFWs)-
S\Jch duty is 
embodied in Section 3, Article XIII of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, which provides 
that "the St!:ite shall afford full protection to labor, local and overseas, organized and 
unorganized, and promote. full employment and equality. of employment opportunities for 
all." 
In keeping with this declaration and pursuant to its duty, the State created 
agencies, one of which is the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), to 
support the OFWs. 
Statistics will show that the Philippines is a main exporter of labor abroad, 
sending at least 3,000 OFWs daily. These Filipino overseas workers are consistent 
dollar earners for the country as it continues to bring in at least $17 Billion dollars in the 
local economy. Considering the significant contributions these "modern day heroes" 
bring in to our economy, there is a need to strengthen OWWA to further promote and 
protect the welfare of OFWs. 
Accordingly, this legislative measure seeks t{) examine and r-&define the 
functions of OWWA as a national government agency vested with a special function of 
developing and implementing welfare programs that respond to the needs of member-
OFWs and their families. This bill also establishes clear-cut guidelines for the procedure 
for membership registration and its renewal; ensures sufficiency of the operative budget 
of the OWWA to support full protection of the OFW welfare; and creates the OWWA 
Fund as a private fund held in trust by OWWA. 
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly sought 


SIXTEENlH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
QF THI; PHJllPPINI;:S 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
'J ,4 
jl..,~ "'.I 
r~!?naii' 
t~J!lf.;t _~t tI:~ j.rn"clar" 
'13 
.JUL -1 
f\9 :15 
Introduced Illy SENATOR JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
TO GOVERN THI; OPERATION_fi ANO AOII/IINISTRATION OF THE OVeRSeAS 
WORKERS WELFARE AIDMINISTRATION 
Be it enacted by the S/mate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assemblecj: 
CHAPTER I 
TITLE. POLICY AND OBJECTIVES 
SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "OWWA Act of 
2Q13". 
SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. -
It is the policy of the State to afford full 
prott:!ctiQn tp I~PQr, IQcaJ an<J QVeffi.ea!l, Qrgani{:eq ancj lJnorgani~ed, l;InQ R.rQmote fl1l1 
employrnent opportunities for aiL Towards this end, it shall be the State's responsibility 
to protect the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). 
The Overseas Workers welfare 
Administration (OWWA) shall be one of the principal agencies of the State to serve and 
promote the interest and welfare of the OFWs and their families. 
SEC. 3. Objectives. - This Act is enacted to provide guidelines on matters 
conceming OWVVA, its mandate, purposes and objectives, membership, collection of 
contributions, and availment of benefits and services. 
This Act also embodies the 
policies on fund management, programs and services administration. 
CHAPTER II 
NATURE, S.COPE AND FUNCTlONS OF OWWA 
SEC. 4. Nature of OWWA. - The OWWA is a national government agency 
vested with a special function of d.evelopjng and implementing welfare programs and 
services that respond to the needs of its member-OFWs and their families. It shall have 
the power to administer a trust fund. Being a national government agency, the OWVVA 
shall not fall under the category of any of the following: Government Instrumentalities 
with Corporate Powers, Government Corporate Entities, Government Financial 
Institutions and/or Government-Owned or-Controlled Corporations. 
The OWWA shall be an attached agency of the Department of Labor and 
Employment (DOLE). Its officials and employees are covered by the Salary 
Standardization Law. 
1 


SEC. 5. Scope. - This Act shall apply to all OFWs who are duly registered with 
the Philippjne OVersei;l!i J,:mployment Administration (POEA) and those who will I;lvail of 
the voluntary membership program of OWWA. 
SEC. 6. Functiotw. - The main functions of OWWA are: 
a) To protect the interest and promote the welfare of member-OFWs in all 
phases of ovemeas employment in recognition of their valuable contribution 
to the overall development effort; 
b) To facilitate thEl implementation of the provisions of the Labor Code and 
Republic Act No. 8042, as amended, concerning the responsibility of the 
government to promote the well-being of OFWs. Pursuant thereto, and in 
furtherance thereof, it shall provide legal assistance to its members; 
c) To provide soda I and welfare programs and selvices to member-OFWs, 
including, but not lill"Iited to, social assistance, education and training, cultural 
sar-vices, 
financial 
management, 
reintegration 
and 
e~ltreprel'leUfial 
development services; 
d) To provide prompt and appropriate response to global emergency or crisis 
situations; 
e) To ensure the efficiency of collections and the viability and sustainability of 
the Fund thmugh sound, judicious and transparent investm!:1nt and 
man/ilgement PQliQies; 
f) 
To undertake studies and research for the enhancement of social, economic 
and cultura.l wellcbeing of member-OFWs; and. 
g) To develop, support and finance specific projects for the welfare of member-
OFWfj. 
CHAPTER III 
DEFINlTlONS 
SEC. 1. Definition of Terms. - For purposes of this Act, the following terms 
shall mean: 
a) Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) - refers to a person who is to be engaged, 
is enggu~d, Qr hf!;:! be.e.(l engaUt;ld in a r~mLjn~rat!'lrj aqtjvity in a fitatf;l of whiC;h 
he or she is not a citizen, or on board a vessel navigating the foreign seas 
other than a government ship used for military or non-commercial purposes, 
or on an installation located offshore or on the high seas; 
b) Dependent - refers to any of the following: (1) the legal spouse dependent for 
support l)Pon the. member or PensioneC (2) the ll:1gitiroate, le.gitiml;lteQ, legl;\lIy 
adopted child, including the illegitimate child, who is unmarried, not gainfully 
employed, not over the age of majority, or is over the age of majority but 
incapacitated and incapable of self-support due to a mental or physical defect 
acquired prior to age of majority; and (3) the parents dependent upon the 
member for support; 
2 


c) Compensation"- refers to the basic payor salary received by an employee, 
pl,Jrsl,JaDt to. hi.s appointment, excluding per diems, bonl,Jses, overtime pay, 
honoraria, allowances and any other emoluments received in addition to the 
basic pay which are not integrated into the basic pay under existing laws; 
d) Contribution or Membership Fee - refers to the amount payable to O\f\MJA by 
an OFW or the employer in accordance with the provisions of this Act; 
e) OWWA Member -" refers to an OFW with a paid contribution or membership 
fee; 
f) Non-Active OWWA Member -. refers to an OFW whose OWWA membership 
has expired; 
g) Non-Member OFW = refers to an undocumented OFW and who has not 
availed of the voluntary memhership of OWWA on-site. 
CHAPTER IV 
MEMB.ERSHIP, CONTRIBUTION ANn COLLECTION 
SEC. 8. Regislrallon of Membersllip. - Registration or enrolment of members 
shall be in accoJdanc.e wf,th the provisions o.f this Act. Membership in OWWA may be 
obtained in two (2) ways: 
a. By compulsory registration upon processing of employment contracts of 
OFWs at the POEA; and 
b. By voluntary registration of OFWs at job-sites overseas or at the O\f\MJA 
Regional Welfare Offices. 
SEC. 9. Proof of Membership. - All members shall be issued Official Receipt 
up.on payment oJ the required co.ntributiQIJ. They s.hal.! likewise. be. issl)ed an OININA E-
card, identification card o.r other proof of OWWA membership. No additional or extra 
charges shall be levied on members. 
The OWWA is mandated to maintain an updated database of member-OFWs 
and to update this regularly. 
SEC. 10. Amount of Contribution and Effectivity of Membrmihil1. -
M(;'lmQ(;'lrship to. the OINlN.(\, ei.th€lr thro.ugh the GQmPUI$Qry Qr vQluntlilry GQveremf;!, shall 
be effective upon payment of membership contribution in the amount of twenty five US 
dollars (US$ 25.00) or its equivalent in the current foreign exchange rates. Such 
membership shall be considered active until the expiration of the OFWs existing 
employment contract. 
In case of voluntary members who register on-site, membership coverage shall 
not exceed two (2) years. 
Based on actuarial studies and taking into consideration the welfare and interest 
of the members, the Board may adjust or modify the amount of membership 
contribution. 
3 


SEC. 11. Renews'l of Membersllip. -
Membership shall be renewed upon 
Pi;lymenl of cc;mtripution on contract rE;lneWi;l1 or i$$UanCe of a" neW Contract of 
employment. In the case of voluntary membership, coverage shall be renewed upon 
payment of contribution of twenty five US dollars (US$ 25.00) or its equivalent in the 
current foreign exchange rates. 
There shall be a grace period of two (2) months in both instances. 
SEC. 12. Separatilw of Sea-based and Land-bal!utd Workeno Contributirm. -
To effect a mQre. efficient fund mani;lgement I:)e.tween the two (2) liyb-lieGtQr~1 group:? Qf 
land-based and sea-based workers, the collection of membership contribution shall be 
accounted for in two (2) separate books of account. 
SEC. 13. ALltllori:tl~d Col/ecting Officeno.-
a. Membership contributions shall be collected by duly authorized OWWA 
Collecting Offic<?rs, <;leputized collecting officers or accredited agents. The 
collection of me;mbership contributions shall be made at the I?OEA contract 
processing hub, OWWA regional and overseas offices and other accredited 
collection centers. 
b. In case of voluntary members who register on-site, membership contributions 
shall be made directly to the OIMNA Overseas Offices located in the various 
diplomatic stations, embassies or consulate offices of the Philippines. 
SEC. 14. Reporlorial Requirements alld Handling of Collections. -
The 
collecting o.fficer, deputiz(~d coJlecting officoer. or the accreo<;lite<;l collecting agent sh~U 
prepare and submit the required monthly reports to the OIMNA Central Office in the 
Philippines. Handling of collections and deposits by Collection Officers shall be 
governed by the usual accounting and auditing rules. 
SEC. 15. SanctilltlS of Erring Officers. -
Corresponding administrative 
sanctions and other disdplinary measures.. including rec.all from post/suspensionl or 
separation from service, shall be imposed upon any officer who violates the provision of 
the preceding section. 
SEC. 16. Prohiblition Against Discrimination on Membersllip. '" No OFW 
shall be denied membership to' the OWWA by reason of age, gender, nationality, 
religious belief, or politicall opinion or affiliation. The OWWA shall take affirmative steps 
to enhance the access of OFWs to its programs and services. 
SEC. 17. PaymElnt of Contribution or OWWA Fee by Employer. = 
Contributions to the 6WVVA Fund must be paid by the employers/principal, or in their 
default, the recruitment/manning agency in the case of new-hires. The POEA shall 
ensure that a provision to this effect shall be made an integral part of the overseas 
employment contract. 
SEC. 18. Penalty for Violation by Recruitment/Manning Agency. - Violation 
by a recruitment/manning agency of the meceding section &haU cQnstitute an offense 
punishable by revocation of its license and all its officers and directors shall be 
perpetually disqualified from engaging in the business of recruitment/placement of 
4 


overseas workers. Such penalty is without prejudice to any other liability which such 
officers and dir!;lclon;; m'lY have in.curred und.er I;:lxisiing l'Iws, rules 'Ind regulations. 
SEC. 19. Deposit and Remittance of Col/ection. -
a. OWWA Central Omee and Regional Offices - The Collecting Officer shall, on a 
daily basis, deposit all OWWA fee contributions to the OWWA Capital fund 
Account with the Land Bank of the Philippines. For reconciliation and record 
purposes, bank validated deposit slips shall be prepared in triplicate forms to be 
distributed to the 1) servicing bank, 2) OWWA together with the Report of 
Collections, and to -ale 3) Collecting Officer. 
b. OWWA Overseas Officers - The Collecting Officer shall, on a daily basis, deposit 
all OWWA fee con:tributions in the same currency received, to a separate bank 
account for collections in the name of the "Office of the Labor Attache - OWWA 
Collections", in the depositary bank of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), 
or in the ac.credited correspondent bank of th.e Land Ban«. of the Philippines. 
Accumulated montlllly collections shall be remitted to the OWWA Capital Fund 
AC90unt with the Land Bank of the Philippines not later than the 5th day of the 
following month. 
No withdrawals, eXGept remittances of Gollections, can be made from the bank 
aC.9.ounts. for colieciio.l1S without priOr written approval of the Administrator OJ his duly 
authorized representative, subject to the policies approved by the Board. 
Overseas Offices 8hall be authmized to retain the required amount for the 
beginning and maintaining balance of the above-mentioned bank accounts for 
collections. 
CHAPTER V 
TH~ QWWA aQARO QF TR.lJST~~S 
SEC. 20. The OWWA Board of Trustees. = To carry out the purposes of this Act, 
the OWWA shall be directed and controlled by a Board of Trustees as its policy making 
body. It shall be composed of the following members: 
a) Secretary of tne Department of Labor and Emplayment, as Cnairperson; 
b) OWWA Administrator, as Vice Chairperson; 
c) Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs; 
d) Secretary of the Department of Pinance; 
e) Secretary of the Department of Budget and Manaoement; 
f) 
POEA Administrator; 
. 
. 
g) Two (2) representatives of land-based OFWs who are nominated and appointed 
in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 10022, which amended 
R~pYl:lliG AGt NQ. !~04" Qr the Migrant WQrken~ (l.nd QVerseas Filjpinos AGt of 
1995; 
h) One (1) representative of the sea-based OFWs who are nominated and 
appointed. in ac.cOJdance with the. provisions of Republic Act 10022; 
i) 
One (1) representative of the women sector who is nominated and appointed in 
accordance with thl~ provisions of Republic Act No. 1004;;!; 
j) One (1) representative of the land-based recruitment sector, who is selected from 
among the variolUs associations of registered overseas placement and 
recruitment agenci1es based in the Philippines who shall be appointed by the 
President to serve Ii single term of three (3) years; and, 
5 


k) One (1) representllitive of the sea-based manning sector, who is selected from 
/ilm~)I)g th.E;l vlilJiQw; /ils.socl1i!tions. of registere.d oversE;l1i!s pl<iJcement and ma.nning 
agencies based in the Philippines who shall be appointed by the President to 
serve a single term of three (3) years. 
The Trustees holding office as members of the OWIJIJA Board at the time of the 
effectivity of this Act shall continue to serve until the expiration of their term of 
appointments. 
In case of vacancy' in any of the appointive positions in the OWWA Board, tilt:) 
I(QG~nGY I;1h~I.1 be filled bY the slJbseqlJent nQmingtiqn by tOe rfi!s!llilqtive sectqr 
concerned in the same manner as the selection of the predecessor. Such successor 
shall hold office for the unexpired term only. 
SEC. 21. Per Diem. - Tile members of tht:) OWWA Board shall not receive any 
compensation but shElIl bEl prQvided wito per diem at rates allowed under Elxif)ting rules 
and regulations. 
SEC. 22. Responsibilities and Powers of the Board of Trustees. -
The 
OWIJIJA Board shall exercise the following specific powers and duties: 
a) To define the thrusts of the OWWA and adopt broad policy guidelines to ensure 
their implementation; 
b) To preserve the integrity of the OWWA Trust Fund; 
c) To approve programs, projects, and the organizational structure of the OWWA 
Secretariat; 
d) To modify or adjust the membership fee and other necessary charges based on 
actuarial studies; 
e) To formulate rules and regulations governing financial transactions and fix the 
yearly appropriations of the Secretariat; 
f) To ensure the effiGiency of colleGtion and the viability and sustainability of the 
fund through soundl and judicious investment and fund management policies; 
g) To receive and appropriate all sums as may be provided by law for the support of 
the OWWA to the E~nds specified by law, and all other sums in the manner it may, 
in its decision, determine to carry out the purposes and functions of the OWWA; 
h) To authorize the construction or repair of its buildings, machinery, equipment and 
other facilities, and the purchase and acquisition of real and personal properties, 
including the necessary supplies, materials and equipment; 
i) To receive in trust legacies, gifts and donations of real and personal proPerty of 
all kin<:t~ !lInp tQ <;IqrDini;1t~r ancl. clililPQ~~ the ~<;I.rn~ when n~G~l?l?<;Iry fQr thE;! l:!tlnefit 
of the OWWA general membership and subject to the instructions of the donor, if 
any; 
j) To delegate any of its powers to the Chairperson of the OWWA Board or any 
other officials or officers as it may deem necessary; 
k) To prescribe such 'general policies, rules and regulations, not contrary to law, as 
are consistent with the purposes ofthe OWWA; and 
I) To exercise such powers as may be proper and necessary to carry out the 
objectives of this Ad. 
CHAPTER VI 
~QARP I\III;(;TIING$, PRQXI~$, AND RI;CQRDS I\IIANAGI;J\/I~NT 
6 


SEC. 23. SchedllJ'e of Meetings and Quorum of the Board. - The regular 
meetings of the O\fIN'JA Board sh<;\11 be held every l/,lest Friday of the month .. If a change 
of date becomes necessary, the same shall be held at the most convenient time set by 
the Board. 
Special Board meetings and executive meetings may be scheduled as the need 
arises. Special Board me1etings may be called upon by the Chairperson or by five (5) 
members of the Board. 
The Board Secretary shall distribute to all members of the Board the notice of 
m€!€!ting tQg€!ther with th.e c,lisGlIl:lsion mGlterial1:! gt 11';!<;l.l:!t tbrae (3) working Q<;lYs Qrior to 
the schedUled meeting. 
SEC. 24. Board Proceedings . . - The Board proceedings shall be guided by the 
following rules: 
a) Notice of Meetings - The Board Secretary shall distribute to all Members of the 
Board, the Notice of Meeting together with the discussion materials at least three 
(3) working days prior to the scheduled meeting. 
b) Quorum - In determining the existence of a quQrum, the Board shall adopt the 
simple majority ruler Of one half plus one oJ the to.tcd filled BOard seats. 
c) Votinf! - For the approval of any policy requiring the disbursement of the OWWA 
Fund, an affirmative vote of a majority of all. the members shall be required. For 
the approval of all other policies, an affirmative vote of a majority of the members 
present constitutin~1 a quorum shall oe necessary. 
d) Attendance in Board Meetings - Board members are responsible for attending all 
board meetings. The ex-officio members of Board of Trustees may designate in 
writing their permanent alternate who shall have voting power. The Board shall 
install teleconferencing facilities in order to muster quorum during Board 
Meetings.' 
' .  
e) Presiding Officer - The Chairperson shall preside oVer meetings of the Board. In 
the ~Qsence of the Gh.~.i.r, the ViGe-Gh~irper!.\Qn f'!h.~II. pref'!icje. 
f) Board Resolution -- All decisions of the Board shall be expressed in the form of 
Re.solutions signed by aU the. membexs present. Res.olutions may be modified or 
superseded by another resolution. 
Resolutions shall take effect upon adoption and signing by the members present, 
subject to requisite publication. 
g) Records Management and Archiving of Board Documents - The Board Secretary 
shall ensure a complete and thorough recording of all proceedings during a 
Board meeting. Thl9 minutes of the previous meeting shall be made available for 
approval during the: succeeding Scheduled Board Meeting. 
The Minutes of the! meeting shall contain the attendance, business arising from 
the minutes, major agre.ements reached, corresponding resolutions, and other 
items noted or discussed, and instructions issued by the Board. 
All Minutes of mEletings and Board resolutions, tape recordings, and other 
documents pertaining to the business of the Board shall be kept and archived 
pursuant to standard records management systems and procedures. 
7 


CHAPTER VII 
QWWA Sf;CRfTARJAT 
SEC. 25. The OWWA Secretariat. ,.., The OWWA Secretariat is the implementing 
armofOWWA. 
SEC. 26. Duties and Responsibilities of OWWA Secretariat. - The OWWA 
S.ecretariat shall perform and assume the following duties and responsibilities: 
a) To manage programs and the delivery of welfare services locally and overseas to 
its members, ~upPQrt~d by advocacy gnd information programs; 
b) To implement Board policies on investment and fund management; 
c) To formllll'lte medium term development plans responsive to the welfare, needs 
and demands of member-OFWs; 
d) To submit work anci financial plans for Board consideration; 
e) To provide policy alflalyses and recommendations for Board consideration; 
f) To conduct continuing researches and studies, including impact evaluation, in aid 
of policy and program development; 
g) To regularly monitor and conduct assessment anci evaluation of organizational 
performance; 
h) To establish and maintain an on line management information system, to include 
database on membership; 
i) To establish and maintain linkages and networks with local and international 
social and institutional partners; 
j) To conduct annual planning, budgeting and organizational performance 
assessment and render the report to the Board; 
k) To submit annual reports to the Board, Congress and the President; 
I) 
To submit written quarterly reports on the assessment, and evaluation of 
programs, projects and services and such other reports as may be required by 
the Board; 
m) To undertake the p,eriodic review of programs, standards, thrusts and policies; 
n) To perform other functions as may be instructed by the Board; and 
0) To adopt internal rules of procedure consistent with the provisions of this Act. 
SEC. 27. The OItlIWA Administrator. -- The administration of the OWWA is 
vElS~Eld in thEl Mmini~trqtQr. AS. th.~ QhiElf ~l.<ElGlJti\(El QffiGE;1r of thEl $Elc:rElt<;lriat, th~ 
Administrator shall exercilse general supervisi.on and control of all OWWA pers.onnel 
and reSOUfces and assume full respollsibility and accountability thereof. 
The Administrator must possess good leadership and managerial skills. The 
Administrator shall be appointed by the President. The Administrator shall report to the 
President through the Secretary of DOLE, and shall perform the duties and functions 
elsewhere stated in this Act and all the usual, necessary and related functions of the 
office of the administratOl", subject to the P.olicies and rules prescribed by the OWWA 
Board. 
SEC. 28. The DeJlLlty Administrators. - Two (2) Deputy Administrators shall 
!'\ssist the Admini.str.atoJ in the administration and sllpen/ision of operations of OVVWA 
They shall be appointed by the Board upon the recommendation of the Administrator. 
They must also possess Hood leadership and managerial skills. The Board may assign 
specific functional responnibilities t.o the· Deputy Administrators. 
8 


SEC. 29. Regionall and On-Site Welfare Officers. -
OWVVA shall maintain 
RegiQnl;l1 
OffiCE;l~ a,nd 9n·'~ite. Welfare. Offi(}e.~ U,nder the Philippine Qller~ea$ Labor 
Offices of the Department of Labor and Employment. 
CHAPTER VIII 
PEI~SONNEL AND STAFFING PATTERN 
SEC. 30. New Stnwture and Staffing Pattern. -
a} Upon effectivity of this Act, the officers and employees of the OWVVA shall, in a 
holdover capacity, Gontinue to perform their respeGtive duties and responsibilities 
and receive the corresponding salaries and benefits unless in the meantime they 
are separated from the service. The new structure and staffing pattern for the 
OWWA shall be pmscribed by the OWWA Board and approved by the President 
of the Philippines. 
The salaries and benefits of all personnel shall be in 
accordance with existing compensation laws. 
b) Those incumbents whose positions are not included therein or who are not 
reappointed shall be deemed separated from the service. Those separated from 
the service shall mceive the retirement benefits to which they may be entitled 
under existing laws, rules and regulations. 
. 
sec. 31. Q(lalificj~tion$ Upgrading Program. - Pursuant to the provision of 
p~r~m~Rh (1) of th.~ imm~tdi~tt;lly fW~QE2cjing s€'lQiiQn, thfJ. QWWA I2Qard shall Q€'lsign and 
establish a qualifications upgrading program for the staffing of the OWWA, in 
coordination with the DOLE and the Civil Service Commission (CSC), within one 
hundred twenty (120) days from the effectivity of this Act: Provided, that those who are 
already in the service from the effectivity of this Act shall have, not later than five (5) 
years, to obtain the required academic degree and/or qualification counted from the 
implementation of the qualifications upgrading program: Provided, further, That those 
who are already in the service from the effectivity of this Act shall have, not later than 
one (1) year, to obtain the necessary CSC qualification required for the position they are 
currently holding. 
SEC. 32. Authority of the Board to Reorganize the Administration. -
Notwithstanding tile provisions of el:<isting laws., the.OWWA B.o.a.rd shal] conduct a 
management audit, prepare and submit to Congress a proposed reorganization plan of 
the OWWA not later than one (1) year, subject to the limitations provided under this Act 
and based on the foliowinjJ criteria: 
a) Increased OWWA visibility from the head office to the various regional offices 
and by the appointment and assignment of personnel to positions which are 
purely administrative, technical, clerical or menial in nature and other positions 
which are not direcltly related to its operation and administration; and 
b} Efficient and optimized delivery of OWWA services to the Or;.Ws and their 
respective families. 
SEC. 33. General ,Qualifications for Appointment. - The general qualifications 
for appointment of OWWA personnel shall be in accordance with the minimum 
requirements set by the Civil Service Commission (CSC). OWWA may hire experts in 
actu~ri~1 stugit;ls, inform<:!lion technology, finance eng investment, I'mg suC:;h other fields 
as may be deemed necessary in the implementation of programs and services. 
9 


CHAPTER IX 
QWWA 13t;NEFITS AND SERVlCeS 
SEC. 34. GLliding Principles. - Pursuant to its mandate, OWWA shall provide 
rElintElg(a~iQn prQgr<.!rn~, n~p"ltri<;\tiQI1 <.!l:i~i::;tanC;El, IQ"lXl <.!nd crEldit a~~i::;t<!nce, WQrk~rfl 
assistance on-site, death and disability benefits, health care benefits, education and 
skills training, social services, family welfare assistance, and other appropriate 
programs that provide timHly social and economic services. 
Nothing in this Act shall be construed as a limitation or denial of the right of the 
QFW to. avail of any benefit plan which may be adQRted in the employment contract, or 
offered voluntarily by employers, or by the laws of the receiving country which are over 
and above those provided under this Act. 
SEC. 35. Benefits and Services to OFWs. -
A. Reintegration of OFWs. Reintegration of OFWs shall be one of the core 
programs of OWWA. 
To be able to sustain the viability of this program, not less than ten percent (10%) 
of OWWAs collection of contribution for the immediately preceding year shall be 
allocated annually fOr reintegration program. 
B. Repatriation Assistance. Consistent with the provisions of RA No. 8042, as 
a.menqe.q, me.m.b.Elffl fll:1C:l11 be prQ\(i(je.cI wit.h C:l1I thEl flElrviGefl nElc;eflflC!ry for 
repatriation. 
C. Loan and Credit Assistance. OWWA shall provide low,interest loans to member 
OFWs. It shall havE~ the authority to hire experts in finance or banking to assist in 
implementing the said loan programs. 
D. Workers Assistance and On-site Services. OWWA shall sustain and maintain 
assistance to OFWs in all its overseas and regional offices. Services shall 
include information regarding the names, occupation/job category and addresses 
of OFW, providing guidance, developing materials for the Pre-Departure 
Orientation Seminalrs, conductinl;l psycho-social counseling, conciliation services, 
and outreach misHions, among others. On behalf of the OFW, OWWA may 
provide appropriate representation with employers, agents and host government 
authorities, including, but not limited to assisting OFWs to regain unpaid wages. 
E. Social Benefits. A member-OFW shall be cpvered with the following social 
bene.fit~: 
1. Death and Disability Benefits. 
a. Death Benefits. A member shall be covered with life insurance for the 
duration pf one's employment contract. The coverage shall include One 
Hundre.d Thousand Pesos (P1QO,OOO.OO) for natural de.ath and Two 
Hundred Thousand Pesos (P200,000.00) for accidental death. 
b. Disability and Dismemberment Benefits. A member shall be entitled to 
disability/dismemberment benefits as a rider provision of one's life 
insurance as provided for in the impediment schedule contained in the 
Manual of Systems and Procedures. The coverage is within the range of 
Two Thousand Pesos (P2,OOO.OO) to Fifty Thousand Pesos (P50,OOO.OO). 
10 


c. Total Disability Benefit. In case of total permanent disability, a member 
s.h~1l be entitled to One H@dred Thousand Pesos (P1QQ,QOO.QO). 
d. Burial Benefit. A burial benefit of Twenty Thousand Pesos (P20,OOO.OO) 
shall be provided in case of the member's death. 
Based on actuarial studies, the Board may increase the amount of the 
abovementioned benefits. 
2. Health Care Benefits. Within two (2) years from the effectivity of this Act, 
OWWA is mandated to develop and implement health care programs for the 
benefit of member-OFWs and their families. 
F. Education and Training Benefits. A member or a designated beneficiary may 
ii.llaii of the following scholarship programs, subject to it sele.ctton pro.cess and 
accreditation of partiCipating institutions. Annual scholarship lists shall be 
submitted to the Board. 
1. Skills-for Employment Scholarship Program. -
For technical or vocational 
training scholamhip. 
2. Education for Development Scholarship Program. -
For baccalaureate 
programs. 
3. Seafarers' Upglrading Program. - To ensure the competitive advantage of 
Filipino seafarers in meeting Intemational Maritime Organization (lMO) 
90mpetencY stand!'!rds, se?-b!'!sed members shall be entitled to one 
upgrading program for every three (3) membership contributions. 
SEC. 36. Extension of Services to Non-members. - OWWA may also extend 
appJopdate programs or servic.es. to non-members, as. may be. determined by the 80ard. 
OWWA shall continue to develop and implement new programs to meet new 
OFW needs. and reqUirements as they arise, and to. assess the effectiveness. of existing 
services and benefits in sElrving OFW welfare. 
OWWA shall also maintain an interactive website to Golleot OFW feedback, 
comments, suggestions alnd complaints on existing programs and services. 
CHAPTER X 
THE OWWA TRUST FUND 
SEC. 37. OWWA Fund. - The OWWA Fund is a private fund held in trust by 
QWWA Th.!? QWWA Fu.nd, Q!?ing a trYlit fund, is. not golt!?wrnEl.nt mQney. NQ QQrtiQn 
thereof or any of its income, dividends or earnings shall accrue to the general fund of 
the National Government. Neither shall any amount or portion thereof be conjoined with 
the government money, nor revert to the national government. In the same manner, it is 
exempted frorn the "one fund doctrine" of the government. 
SEC. 38. Purpose of the OWWA Fund. - The OWWA Fund can only be used 
for the purposes for which it was created, that is, to exclusively serve the welfare of 
member-OFWs and their Ifamilies. The fund is to be used exclusively to finance the core 
programs and services of the OWWA. 
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SEC. 39. Reportiflg of the Fund. - Within fifteen (15) days after receipt of 
Cluditec;t reports from the Commi.ssion on At)Qit, the OWWA 90<1rd of Truli.te.eS $h<111 
submit to the President and Congress a report showing the total collections of and the 
disbursements from, the OWWA Fund. 
SEC. 40. Disbursement of OWWA Fund. - Any provision of existing law to the 
contrary notWithstanding, all inc.omes generated by the. OWWA shall, upon their 
collection, be retained by the OWWA and disbursed at the discretion of the Board for 
the general welfare and other benefits of the OWWA general membership and the 
OWWA Secretariat personnel; for the acquisition, construction, maintenance and repair 
of urgently needed auxiliary facilities, equipment, buildings and other infrastructure, and 
for expenses necessary for the attainment of its purposes under its approved program 
of expenditures. 
No fund shall be withdrawn from the OWWA Fund to respond, aid, supplement, 
Qr in anY m<'!nner alJgmenl; any required exPenditure by other gQlterrnnent agf;1nc;if;1~. 
SEC. 41. Source of the OWWA Fund. = The OWWA Fund is the sum total of 
the amount under the management and fiscal administration of the OWWA Board and 
the Secretariat, including the US$25 contributions that shall accrue to the Fund as fees, 
investment and interest inl~ome, and income from other sources. 
SEC. 42, Trustee:i of the Fund. - The OWWA Board is designated as the 
tfll~tee Qf the QWVIJA fllllQ. It ~h.all. be Qound by a fiduC;igiY QlIty tQ manage the fund 
with extra-ordinary diligenlCe and with utmost skill, care and judiciousness. 
SEC. 43. Transp,rJrency. -
The OWWA Fund shall be managed with full 
transparency and full public disclosure. It shall make available all records of how the 
funds are utilized, disbursed, and invested in accordance with existing laws. 
CHAPTER XI 
INVESTMENT ADMINISTRATION: SAFEGUARDS. 
SEC. 44. Safeglls'rds of the OWWA Fund; Acquired Assets; Unredeemed 
investments. -
a) The OWWA Trust Fund shall be managed and expended in accordance with the 
purpose of the fund and liiafegw1!rdec;I agaiJlliit any I2Qliisible 101ii!? and misuse. 
The OWWA shall ensure an appropriate growth rate in the fund sufficient to 
sustain th.e growin!l needs of OFW memhers. It shall ensure. that all investment 
instruments are periodically inventoried and properly kept at a government bank 
under a custodianship agreement. 
A monthly report on all investment schedules showing the interest rates, yields, 
discount rates and other relevant data, shall be submitted to the Board. 
b) The OWWA shall administer all properties, acquired or foreclosed. To ensure 
that the properties are safeguarded and preserved, the same must be properly 
accounted for and documented; re-inspected, re-appraised, and insured with 
t 
." 
. axes pal"l. 
12 


An asset development/disposal plan shall be submitted by the Administrator for 
the. consid.eration of the B.oaJd. 
Foreclosed properties shall be registered as OWWA assets within one (1) month 
;;tfter fOrl;~QIQsurc;l. 
c) Unredeemed investments and other receivables shall be inventoried semi-
annually and corresponding redemption plan shall be submitted to the Board. All 
receivables shall be supported by documents appropriately acknowledged by the 
accountable p",rty. 
SEC. 45. General J'nvestment Policy. - Upon approval of the Board, all OWWA 
investments. shall be plaGed only in government s.ecurities and bonds which provide 
optimum earnings, liquidity and protection of the Fund. Portfolio management of 
investible funds shall be outsoureed to government financial institutions (GFls). 
SEC. 46. Examinaltion and Valuation of the Funds. = The OWWA shall make a 
periodic actuarial examination and valuation of its funds in accordance with accepted 
actuarial prinCiples. 
CHAPTER XII 
FISCAL AND BUDGET POLICY: MANAGEMENT 
SEC. 47. Operative Budget. -
The operative budget must be sufficient to 
supp.ort full protection oJ Ilhe OFW welfare .. The. budget shall be reviewe.d annually by 
the Board with emphasis on adequate funding for services and agency efficiency. 
The Board shall approve, by a majority vote of all its members, the operating 
budget which shall support the planned work programs and administrative costs to 
include but shall not be limited to salaries, emoluments and transportation expenses 
from OWWA personnel, office rentals, office supplies, equipment, technological support, 
communications and utilities, requirements for personal services, and maintenance: 
Provided, That appropriations for personal services (PS) and its regular maintenance 
and other operating expenses (MOO E) shall not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the 
totS'll member contribytion!! r~S'lli~~d il') th~ imrn(')diately pr(')c~dil')g y(')ar. 
The approved operating budget shall be drawn from the OWWA Trust Fund. 
SEC. 48. Benefits and Services Budget. -- The annual budget shall include all 
b.enefits and service.s to. OFWs. The. budget shall prioritize protecting OFW welfare. The. 
amount necessary to defray the cost of these benefits and services shall be drawn from 
the OWWA Trust Fund. 
SEC. 49. Budget Preparation and Approval. - In preparin!;l the annual bud!;let, 
OWWA shall follow the national government budget system, format and cycle. 
SEC. 50. Re-enacted Budget. - In case the proposed annual budget has not 
been approved by the BQard at the start oJ the year, OWWA shall operate within the 
13 


budget level of the previous year allocated on a month to month basis. All savings 
r~ali~f;d within a previQU$ Yfilar $.ha.1I b~ deql,lctt'ld fn;.lm it c;:ummt Yli'<lr'$ budget. 
SEC. 51. WQrk and Financial Plans, - All cost centers/offices/units of OWWA 
shaU ~I,lbnlit their annl,lal WQrk and. {ina.noi;;!.1 pl<;!ns (WFPj, wtlich shOlJld QorresPQnd to 
the approved budget. The Directors shall endorse the WFP of their respective units for 
approval of the Administrator. The consolidated OWWA-Wr;p shall be reported to the 
Board. 
SEC. 52. Budget litealignment. - Realignment of funds including adjustments in 
targli'ts shall be submitted to the Board for approval. Similarly, in the eve.nt that extra 
ordinary circumstances may occur which require additional funds beyond the coverage 
of the approved budget, the same shall be submitted for approval by the Board. 
SEC. 53. Branc/. Accounting System; Financial Reports; Auditing 
Procedures; Atmual REiparls. -
The. OWWA Regional Units shall maintain the.ir 
respective books of account which shall be consolidated by the central office. 
The OWWA shall install sound internal control and monitoring systems and 
submit quarterly prescribEld Financial Statements to COA such as income statement, 
balance sheet, and cash fllow as prescribed in post auditing reports by the GOA. 
The OWWA Secretariat is mandated to submit a monthly fund utilization report to 
the Board, copies of whiclh shall be made available to Congress. It is further mandated 
to submit an Annual Report on its overall performance for the previous year within the 
fir§t §ixty (9Q) g~Yl? of tlw follOWing y€)~r to the QWWA 60arg, Congms§ €lnd the 
President. through the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). 
SEC. 54. Chart of Accounts. - The OWWA shall adopt the appropriate and 
$~andard ch.axt 0.1 aCCQUntl>. o,s. presc.ribed by the COA. 
SEC. 55. Appropriation from the National Government. - Nothing in this Act 
shall prevent ttle N<!.tiQnal GQI{€)rnment from allQQating tun,ds for the QPeratiQn or 
implementation of any of the programs or services stated herein, including the budget 
for maintenance and othelr operating expenses. 
CHAPTER XIII 
MISCfI.LANfOU~ PROVl51.0NS 
SEC. 56. Rebates for Long.time Members. = In recognition of the contribution 
of long-time members on the o.WWA Trust Fund, OWWA is. mandated to develop and 
implement a program for the grant of rebates or some form of financial assistance of 
OFWs who have been m€~mbers of OWWA for at least five (5) years and who have not 
availed of any services or benefits, inoluding their families, fmm OWWA. 
SEC. 57. Procurement System. -- The OWWA procurement system Shall be 
governed by Repyblic Acll No. Q164, ,,!Iso known <!.S "GQl{ernment PrQcYrement Reform 
Act", 
14 


SEC. 58. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - The present OWWA Board, 
in consultation with the Senate Committee on Labor and Employment and the House 
Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, shall, within sixty (60) days from the effectivity 
of this Act, formulate the necessary Rules and Regulations for its effective 
implementation. 
SEC. 59. Separability Clause. -
If any provision or part of this Act, or the 
application thereof, is held invalid, the remainder of this Act, or the application of such 
provision, shall not be affected thereby. 
SEC. 60. Repealing Clause. - All laws not adopted as part of this Act either 
directly or indirectly are hereby repealed. All provisions of existing laws, orders, rules 
and regulations inconsistent herewith are likewise repealed. 
SEC. 61. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
publication in two (2) newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved, 
15