Question & AnswerQ&A (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 287)
The Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act (RA 8042), the Labor Code of the Philippines, and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 (RA 9208) mandate various protections and welfare services for OFWs, as referenced in the Order.
They include undertaking surveys and preparing social welfare situationers, establishing networks with overseas social welfare agencies, responding to complaints and queries of OFWs and their families, maintaining data and documentation systems, submitting regular reports, providing information on DSWD services, and performing related social service functions.
They are deployed in countries with the highest concentration of OFWs, as determined in coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Labor and Employment, and Philippine Overseas Employment Agency.
The EO mandates DSWD to designate qualified personnel, provide salaries, training, and technical supervision; DFA to facilitate accreditation, logistical support, and supervision; and DOLE to assist in skills training, orientation, and welfare services for OFWs and Social Welfare Attaches.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provides the salary, benefits, overseas allowances, and related emoluments for the personnel deployed as Social Welfare Attaches.
Section 19 of Republic Act No. 8042 mandates the establishment of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Resource Centers in countries with large concentrations of Filipino migrant workers.
The Social Welfare Attache must submit regular reports to the DSWD and DFA Home Offices on plans, activities, recommendations, and updates on the situation of OFWs, particularly those facing difficulties. These reports may also contribute to the Semi-Annual report to Congress as provided under Section 33 of RA 8042.
DOLE works with DSWD to provide skills training and welfare services, and assists in the orientation training and immersion program for Social Welfare Attaches prior to deployment.
The Executive Order took effect immediately upon its signing on February 24, 2004.