Law Summary

Overview

This advisory issued by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) outlines the new procedures regarding exit clearances for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) at the Labor Assistance Center (LAC) in airports, aimed at facilitating the mobilization of OFWs.

Abolishment of Validation System

• Legal Principle: The validation of POEA exit clearances at the LAC is no longer required.
• Procedure: OFWs must present their POEA exit clearance directly to airline counters, terminal fee counters, and Bureau of Immigration counters.
• Rationale: This change is implemented to streamline the process and reduce delays for OFWs departing for foreign destinations.

Labor Assistance Center (LAC) Operations

• Continuous Operation: The LAC will remain operational 24/7.
• Functions:
  • Issuance of Balik Manggagawa Overseas Employment Certificate with a one-day validity.
  • Weekend processing specifically for seafarers to ensure immediate deployment.
  • Handling of various documentation requests at the airport.
• Assistance Role: The LAC will serve as an information and assistance center for:
  • Verification requests on OFW data from NAIA Authorities and Bureau of Immigration.
  • Providing information and educational materials to OFWs and their families.

Effective Date

• Implementation Date: This advisory will take effect on 24 March 2008.
• Adoption Date: Officially adopted on 19 March 2008.

Compliance Requirement

• Obligation for Stakeholders: Stakeholders involved in the processing and assistance of OFWs must comply with the new guidelines set forth in this advisory.

Key Takeaways

• The validation of exit clearances at the LAC is abolished to facilitate quicker processing for OFWs.
• The LAC will continue to operate around the clock to support OFWs with necessary documentation and information.
• The advisory took effect on 24 March 2008, following its adoption on 19 March 2008, requiring compliance from relevant parties.