12,000 local applications for DOLE AKAP for OFWs approved – OWWA exec

Around 12,000 local applications for cash aid intended for displaced overseas Filipino workers have so far been approved under the Abot Kamay ang Pagtulong (AKAP) program of the Labor Department, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) said Friday.

“Humigit kumulang ay mga 12,000 na ‘yung na-approve nating applications dito pa lang sa Pilipinas ‘yun,” OWWA Administrator Hans Cacdac said in an interview on Unang Balita.

“Doon kasi sa abroad pwede rin mag-apply… Ang pagkakaunawa ko mahigit kumulang 20,000 na ang na-approve. So mahigit 30,000 plus na ang na-approve na applications,” he added.

Each displaced OFW beneficiary will receive an amount of P10,000 under the P1.5 billion AKAP initiative.

Cacdac said the application requirements have been relaxed. OFWs who have been unable to return to their jobs abroad because of the health crisis may file an online application.

He said that OWWA continues to provide food, shelter, and transportation service for OFWs returning to the country amid the global pandemic.

Around 15,000 stranded OFWs have been assisted, he said.

Source: GMA

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