Congressman Ma. Theresa Bonoan David of Manila has proposed a law that aims to amend the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Emergency Repatriation Fund.

Under House Bill No. 6195, departing OFW will pay additional contribution of $50 or not less than P2,000 for the emergency repatriation fund. It will allow distressed Filipino workers abroad to be repatriated during wars, epidemics, disasters or calamities, natural or man-made, and other similar events.

“The bill intends to provide the necessary measures for the government to carry out its responsibilities to assist distressed OFWs in cases of war, epidemic, disaster or calamities, natural or man-made, and other similar events, and promote their general welfare,” said Bonoan-David.

From the additional contribution of OFWs, the bill suggests an up-to-date database and locator system of OFWs for their repatriation, as well as the necessary disaster preparedness and mitigation measures.

“There are millions of OFWs all over the world which the Philippine government is mandated to protect and safeguard under RA 8042 but it seems incapable to efficiently help distressed OFWs due to financial constraints,” she added.