A total of 14 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from E. B. Magalona, who were either displaced or distressed at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, received financial assistance from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
Nine OFWs received P20,000; three were given P10,000; and two got P5,000 under the “Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay!” Program of OWWA, the proceeds of which were distributed on March 16 at the EB Magalona Mayor’s Office
The amount varies, depending on OWWA membership status.
In a statement issued by the EB Magalona Public Information Office, the program extends a package of livelihood support/assistance to returning OFWs to provide immediate relief as startup or additional capital for livelihood projects.
Leading the distribution of checks were Sangguniang Bayan Member Isidro Gomed Jr., who represented Mayor Marvin Malacon, and OWWA-6 OIC-Regional Director Rizza Joy Moldes, assisted by Executive Assistant Debbie Ann Dioneo-Monte, Municipal PESO Manager Jessilyn Plaza, OWWA overseas workers welfare officer Marbie Anne Ascaño, ONOFI (OFWs Negros Occidental Federation, Inc.) president Sally Barrios, E. B. Magalona OFWs Federation president Nilo Ortizo, and Municipal OFWs Help Desk focal person Liza Borja.
Joining them was Ma. Paz Meso, marketing officer of BDO Unibank.
The beneficiaries were accompanied by their respective Barangay OFWs presidents.
Borja said the 14 beneficiaries is the third batch of OFWs from E. B. Magalona who have received livelihood assistance from OWWA this year.
The first batch had five OFWs last January 12, while the second batch had nine OFWs last March 3.*