Monday, April 29, 2024

OFW Pass: All you need to know

In a Zoom conference with leaders of the Filipino Community on Thursday night, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) disclosed that it will be launching an app for smartphones called OFW pass to take the role of the OEC.

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DMW Secretary Susan Ople stated during her presentation at the online conference that President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. had given the department instructions to make the travel of the OFW easier and safer, which led them to come up with the notion of an OFW pass.

From OEC to OFW Pass Making an OFW’s journey easier.

I hope so, well, this is applicable to those OFW or individual who are techie, but what about those who are not well versed in smartphones and to the current technology? Anyway, you can find below some important information about the OFW Pass.

How is the OFW Pass different from the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)?

The OFW Pass serves as a digital identity for the OFW. In comparison to the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), the OFW Pass provides a more convenient experience for the OFW through its digitization. The process of acquiring the OFW Pass can be done solely through the DMW Mobile App while the OEC can be obtained through onsite processes at the DMW. The validity of the OEC lasts for only sixty (60) days and can only be used once, while the OFW Pass is valid until the expiration of the OFW’s working contract.

How do I get my OFW Pass?

You can get your OFW Pass through the DMW Mobile Application. After submitting the requirements, processing verification, and successfully verifying your application, you will be able to generate and acquire your OFW Pass.

Transition Process

OECs will still be honored for two months after the launch of OFW Pass, to help non-techie OFWs transition into the digital process.
Phase 2 of the OFW Pass will be on inter-connectivity with other government agencies for faster, more convenient OFW services including the DICT’s e-GOV app.
The DMW will tap Filcom volunteers in various countries to serve as OFW Pass “teachers” while also creating a 24/7 Contact Center to address all questions related to the OFW Pass. YouTube tutorial videos will also be available.

How long will it take for DMW to verify my requirements?

Upon submitting your requirements, please wait 2-3 working days for DMW to process and verify your application. You may then check the app or app notifications to be in the loop regarding your verification status.
If your status is on ‘pending verification of requirements,’ you will receive an app notification regarding updates on your verification status. You may also regularly check the app every now and then to check your verification status.