The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is stepping up efforts to help overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) facing difficulties due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The agency recently launched a streamlined financial assistance program, making it easier for affected workers to claim a one-time relief grant worth USD200.
Thousands of OFWs have already secured this aid, and the DMW expects many more to benefit now that the application steps are simpler and faster.
How Much is the Grant and Who Qualifies?
Eligible workers will receive a one-time cash grant of $200 (around ₱12,000), sourced from the government’s Assistance to Nationals (ATN) fund.
You can apply for this financial support if the current regional crisis has directly impacted your employment. The DMW specifically targets workers who have experienced:
- Permanent or temporary job loss
- Reduced monthly income
- Shortened working hours
- Significant work disruptions
Which Countries Are Covered?
The financial aid program is currently available to OFWs stationed in the following 10 Middle Eastern nations:
- Bahrain
- Iran
- Israel
- Jordan
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)
- Kuwait
- Lebanon
- Oman
- Qatar
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Important Reminder for OFWs: Different Countries Have Different Procedures
Note that each country has a different set of instructions on how to claim the assistance, so OFWs are advised to stay updated with their nearest MWO office or Philippine Embassy/Consulate to provide them with the guidelines.
Whether the application is done online or onsite, make sure to follow the country-specific process.
What Documents Do You Need?
To speed up the distribution of funds, the DMW reduced the amount of paperwork required. To apply, you only need to submit basic identification and proof that the crisis affected your job.
Basic Requirements:
- A completed Request for Assistance Form (check your host country’s MWO Facebook page for the latest version)
- A clear copy of your passport
- Proof of your overseas employment, such as a labor card, visa, or employment contract
Proof of Impact (Submit at least one):
- A notice of termination from your employer
- A payslip showing a recent reduction in your salary
- A certification from your employer detailing shortened work hours or reduced pay
- Proof of visa cancellation
Flexible Application Process
The DMW understands that securing official documents from employers during a crisis can be difficult. To make sure no affected worker is left behind, the agency introduced a flexible documentation policy.
If you cannot get formal proof from your employer, the DMW will accept a self-declaration letter (sariling salaysay) explaining your situation. Alternatively, you can submit a certification from a recognized Filipino community organization (FILCOM) that confirms your reduced income or disrupted work schedule.
While the DMW designed these new guidelines to fast-track approvals, the agency notes that all applications still undergo standard verification to meet Commission on Audit (COA) rules. The Philippine government remains highly committed to protecting the welfare of OFWs and encourages all eligible workers to take advantage of this available relief.