It is a dedicated space that aims to support, empower, and protect Filipino seafarers and their families.
On Friday, February 13, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) officially opened the new Seafarers’ Welfare Center.
Located at Monarch Parksuites in Aseana Business Park, Parañaque City, the center serves as a one-stop shop for government services for Filipino seafarers and their families.
These services include the Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG Fund (HDMF), PhilHealth, legal assistance from the Public Attorney’s Office, medical help from OWWA’s YAKAP Clinic and Botika, the Migrants’ Brew, and OWWAoke.
There are also training facilities for ongoing capacity-building programs for Filipino seafarers and the Love Yourself Booth, which offers sexual health and HIV awareness.
OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan said that the welfare center’s establishment does not only provide essential government services, but also support their overall well-being.
For his part, Migrant Workers Secretary Cacdac, expressed gratitude for the ongoing support of key stakeholders in the maritime sector in advocating for better protection and empowerment of Filipino seafarers and their families.
The establishment of the welfare center for seafarers is in accordance with the Republic Act No. 12021, or the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, which provides better mechanisms to protect and promote the welfare of maritime workers, the DMW told.