In a groundbreaking move to protect and empower the often unseen pillars behind every Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), Davao City became one of the first local government units in Mindanao to establish a dedicated hub—the OFW Families’ Welfare and Crisis Center (OFWCC). Since its establishment in May 2022, the Center has already served 596 clients, offering vital social protection services to left-behind families and distressed OFWs alike.
Rosevic Joey Jayme, Coordinator of the OFWCC, shared that the center was born out of the city’s recognition of the unique struggles faced by OFW families. “It is really the initiative of our LGU to have a special center for OFW families,” Jayme said. “So far, we have catered to 596 clients.”
Contrary to common belief that OFW families live in comfort because of earnings from abroad, Jayme pointed out that many encounter serious challenges—from emotional hardships and family relationship issues to vulnerabilities like gender-based violence. Some OFWs themselves, particularly those who are undocumented, also fall into distressing circumstances overseas, in need of urgent support.
A Safety Net for Families Left Behind
The OFWCC offers psychosocial services, emergency assistance through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, livelihood support for returning OFWs, and start-up capital for families. “We want to ensure that the family members left behind are not entirely dependent on the OFW,” Jayme explained. Through these services, Davao City hopes to foster resilience and stability within OFW households.
One of the Center’s standout initiatives is the annual Children’s Congress, where the voices of OFW children are amplified. Through the Congress, children who are often left alone and vulnerable are given a platform to share their experiences, ensuring that their concerns reach the barangay level and receive proper intervention.
The Center also strengthened its advocacy against Trafficking-In-Persons (TIP) and introduced Pre-Migration Orientation (PMO) seminars. These sessions educate soon-to-be OFWs and their families, ensuring they are fully informed about their rights, potential risks abroad, and support systems available should problems arise.
Building Stronger Communities, One Family at a Time
Beyond immediate aid, the OFWCC is building a local database of OFWs to better understand their needs at the barangay level. This allows the city to craft targeted, evidence-based programs that address real challenges, not just assumptions.
Currently, the database largely covers documented OFWs, but efforts are underway to include the undocumented ones—an important step since these workers are often the most vulnerable.
Recognizing that accessibility is key, Jayme said the Center works closely with barangay social workers and district CSWDO offices so that even those living far from the city center can access assistance.
The city government has committed an annual budget to ensure that the Center’s programs—from advocacy to livelihood support—continue uninterrupted.
A Lifeline, Always Ready
OFWs and families needing help can reach the OFWCC any time via their 24/7 hotlines: 0999-994-3577 / 0962-996-6520 or landline 082-225-6241. The Center can also be contacted through email at ofwcenter.davaocity@gmail.com or via their Facebook page: OFW Families Welfare and Crisis Center Davao City.
Walk-in clients are welcomed at the OFWCC Help Desk located on the Ground Floor of the City Social Welfare and Development Office Building, along Magallanes Street behind the City Hall Annex Building.
For those in far-flung areas, Jayme encouraged them to approach their nearest barangay or district social workers who can facilitate access to the Center’s services.
In pioneering a specialized hub for OFW families, Davao City sets a powerful example for other localities: that while OFWs continue to uplift the economy through their sacrifices abroad, it is equally crucial to nurture and protect the families they leave behind at home.