LUNA, Apayao – The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Apayao Field Office has recently called for more active engagement of the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from the municipality to enable better implementation of various programs, services, and activities intended for them.
The OWWA made the call during the organizational meeting held last August 21, 2023, at the EKB Gymnasium in San Isidro Sur, Luna, with the presence of some 200 participants composed of barangay officials, OFW returnees and their families.
Provincial Officer Rejoice Cabrera said that the agency is looking to strengthen the organization of OFW Family Circle (OFC) from identified nine barangays of the said town – Quirino, San Isidro Sur, San Isidro Norte, Capagaypayan, Luyon, Lappa, Zumigui, Turod and Poblacion.
Cabrera said that an active and well-organized OFW Circle in each of the said barangays can facilitate the delivery of the various OWWA programs and services.
Among current initiatives of OWWA include the Parokya ng OWWA sa Barangay and Pamilyang OFWs, which aim is to address the psychosocial and relational needs of the OFWs and their families. Said programs are being implemented with the assistance of LGU-Luna and concerned private sector entities.
Luna Mayor Josephine M. Bangsil who graced the activity also subscribed to Cabrera’s call saying that it is about time that they recognize the contributions of OFWs to the local economic development of the town. The mayor added that organizing the group will make it faster for them to be provided with the services they need. By Maureen Legazpi