Senator Erwin Tulfo has filed Senate Bill No. 1696, or the proposed OFW Pre-Employment Loan Assistance Act, seeking to grant aspiring overseas Filipino workers interest-free loans of up to ₱100,000 to cover pre-employment and pre-departure costs.
“OFWs contribute billions of dollars in remittances. They significantly boost not only our economy but also our national morale; yet, they are often left to strive alone to achieve their dreams,” Tulfo said.
The measure gives priority to first-time OFWs and requires them to undergo financial literacy orientation before leaving the country.
Expenses covered include placement and processing fees, medical and psychological examinations, training, airfare, passports, visas, and work permits.
The program will be implemented by the Department of Migrant Workers in coordination with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
Loans will be interest-free for the first year and repaid through authorized bank accounts. A family member must serve as co-signer, while first-time OFWs may extend repayment up to 18 months and access free debt management support.
Tulfo said the bill aims to ease financial pressures on migrant workers and promote long-term stability for their families.
“We want our kababayans, who sacrifice being away from their families, to build a better life that lasts a lifetime. Our ultimate aspiration is that their children, and the generations after them, will no longer be forced to work abroad.”