OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP)
The OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) is a special initiative of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) that provides financial aid to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents in times of crisis. Unlike regular OWWA benefits, this program caters to both active and inactive members who are ineligible for other OWWA assistance schemes.
Whether it’s a calamity, medical emergency, disability, or sudden loss of a loved one, the OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) ensures that affected OFWs and their families receive timely support to ease their financial burden.
What Is the OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP)?
The OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) is designed to provide immediate cash relief to OFWs and their families who face unexpected hardships. It covers situations such as:
-
Natural or man-made calamities
-
Death of an OFW
-
Disability due to accident or crime
-
Serious illness or injury
-
Job loss or forced repatriation
This program is particularly helpful for those who do not qualify for other OWWA benefits but still require assistance.
Types of Assistance Under the OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP)
1. Calamity Assistance
When a state of calamity is declared, OFWs and their families may claim cash assistance:
-
Natural Calamity: PHP 1,000 (active members) / PHP 500 (inactive)
-
Human-Induced Disaster: PHP 3,000 (active) / PHP 1,500 (inactive)
2. Bereavement Assistance
Families of deceased OFWs who are not eligible for the OWWA Death and Burial Benefit may receive a one-time cash grant of PHP 20,000 to help cover funeral expenses.
3. Disability Assistance
OFWs who suffer disability from accidents or crimes can receive:
-
PHP 2,500–25,000 for partial disability
-
PHP 50,000–100,000 for permanent disability
4. Medical Assistance
Provides financial help to OFWs facing health problems caused by accidents or crimes. The amount varies depending on the case.
5. Relief Assistance
Available to OFWs who lost jobs due to political unrest, economic crises, or health emergencies such as pandemics. The amount of support differs based on the situation.
Who Can Apply for the OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP)?
-
Active and inactive OWWA members
-
Dependents of OFWs who are not covered by other OWWA programs
This ensures that even families of OFWs who have not renewed their OWWA membership can still receive aid in times of urgent need.
Document Requirements
Applicants must prepare documents depending on the type of assistance.
General Requirements:
-
Two valid government-issued IDs (OFW or claimant)
-
Authorization letter or Special Power of Attorney if filed by a representative
Specific Requirements:
-
Calamity Assistance: Barangay certificate proving residency in the affected area
-
Bereavement Assistance: Death certificate, proof of relation, affidavit of burial
-
Disability Assistance: Medical certificate, police or accident report
-
Medical Assistance: Medical abstract with physician’s PTR number
-
Relief Assistance: Proof of job displacement (e.g., termination letter, visa cancellation)
How to Apply for the OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP)
-
Visit the nearest OWWA Regional Welfare Office (RWO) if in the Philippines, or a POLO office if abroad.
-
Get a queue number and wait for your turn.
-
Present your OFW ID for membership verification.
-
Complete the application form and submit the required documents.
-
Wait for evaluation. Once approved, you will receive a claim stub.
-
Claim your financial assistance via check or direct disbursement.
Why the OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) Matters
For OFWs and their families, financial emergencies often come without warning. The OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) acts as a safety net, offering immediate help during difficult times. Whether it’s rebuilding after a disaster, paying for medical treatment, or managing sudden job loss, this program ensures no OFW is left unsupported.
✅ Final Note: If you or your family are facing an emergency, contact the nearest OWWA office to apply for the OWWA Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) today.