In their recent visit to Hong Kong, Governor Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas together with his Executive Assistant Dr. Ryan Guinaran launched Benguet OWAG Project, a free course for iBenguet overseas workers in Hong Kong.
The Benguet OWAG or Overseas Workers Assistance Generation project is in partnership with Hong Kong Metropolitan (HKM) University, which offers different courses for OFWs in Hong Kong initiated years ago by Filipino physician Mike Manio, a professor at Hong Kong University (HKU) medicine department.
This is the first time the local government has launched an education initiative exclusively for its overseas workers. It is also the inaugural instance of HKM University providing courses arranged for a single group from one province.
Dr. Manio, together with his colleagues, graced the launching to present the online courses, which include computer literacy, food and safety, child and elderly care, women’s health, financial literacy, among others.
Each course carries five units, where participants earn a Level 1 certificate upon completing 25 units, Dr. Manio explained.
Governor Diclas encouraged the Benguet OFWs to take the opportunity of learning new skills by registering for the free courses.
Participants can complete the required 25 units, or five courses, within six months. Those who enroll this year will be the pioneer graduates of the said program.
This initiative is part of Governor Diclas’ HEALTHIER Benguet development thrust under education.
Meanwhile, Governor Diclas reassured Benguet OFWs in Hong Kong of the various programs available for them and their families in the Philippines, including free medical check-ups at the Benguet General Hospital (BeGH).
He also encouraged overseas workers to apply for the local government’s educational assistance program for their incoming college children, or the Study Now, Pay Later program for medical students.
The governor also urged OFW federations to strengthen their organizations to qualify for the zero-interest livelihood loan assistance, which they can avail once they decide to return to the Philippines for good.
Aside from the medical, educational, and livelihood programs, Governor Diclas expressed his commitment for more programs for the overseas workers including continuing education programs, recognition awards, an OFW help desk, and other government services that could benefit OFWs and their families.
Dr. Guinaran, who arranged the OWAG program with HKM University, said the Governor’s Office is always open for Benguet constituents, regardless of their location.
Around 200-300 Benguet OFWs welcomed the Governor and his company at the event which was organized by Benguet Federation Hong Kong.
The governor expressed his gratitude for their efforts in organizing the event and commended them for their sacrifices as overseas workers. By SAP Jr.