By Andre Alfonso R. Gutierrez
The Philippine government is urging overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning home to take advantage of a programme designed to help them transition into entrepreneurship.
The Department of Science and Technology – National Capital Region (DOST-NCR) is actively promoting its Innovations for Filipino Workers and their Families (iFWDPH) programme, which provides business training, technical assistance, and financial support to OFWs seeking to start their own enterprises.
DOST-NCR Director Romelen Tresvalles highlighted the programme’s goal of equipping returning OFWs with the necessary skills and resources to establish technology-driven businesses, the Philippine News Agency reported.
Financial support for startups
A key component of the programme is its financial assistance scheme, offering up to PHP500,000 in funding for equipment purchases, with no interest charges.
In addition, participants receive capacity-building training that guides them through business planning, market assessment, and legal requirements for setting up an enterprise.
Since its launch in 2020, the iFWDPH programme has trained over 800 OFWs nationwide, with 91 securing funding to launch businesses, generating at least 129 new jobs.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Singapore busts forged documents with new forensics strategy
The initiative is implemented in collaboration with the Department of Migrant Workers and supports ventures in diverse industries, including agriculture, food processing, manufacturing, and information technology services.
Open to recent returnees
To qualify, applicants must have returned to the Philippines within the last two to three years.
The government hopes the programme will provide economic stability for returning OFWs and reduce dependency on overseas employment.
Interested individuals can seek further details and apply via [email protected].
By providing structured support, the initiative aims to harness the expertise and savings of returning migrant workers, transforming them from employees abroad into entrepreneurs at home.
READ NEXT: Vietnam celebrates UNESCO recognition of local festival
Ren Azrack Escosio 
Jheruleene Anne Ramos