The government has unveiled a new initiative meant to help overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) transition back into local livelihood opportunities, expanding the existing Balik Bayani sa Turismo partnership between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). The IPON Tourism Program was formally launched in Makati City on Thursday through a signed memorandum of agreement between the two agencies.
Expanding Opportunities for Returning OFWs
During the ceremony, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco underscored the strong economic role played by OFWs and tourism, noting how both sectors consistently boost national growth.
“Year after year, OFW remittances and tourism receipts are among the highest contributors to the Philippine economy, allowing returning OFWs to reintegrate into communities that are expanding and full of opportunity and hope,” she said.
The program is designed to equip OFWs with practical skills, competency certifications, and access to tourism-related livelihood ventures. Under the initiative, participants may pursue small businesses, employment within the hospitality sector, or tourism services aligned with their experience and interests.
Mentorship and Private Sector Support
The IPON Tourism Program also introduces the Teach-It-Forward component, where returning OFWs can share their expertise by serving as mentors or resource speakers for fellow migrants entering the tourism industry.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, joined by partners from Hotel 101, FastCat, 2GO, DOON PH, and Duty Free Philippines, expressed full support for the collaboration. DOT officials Maria Rica Bueno, Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Verna Buensuceso, and Ferdinand Jumapao were also present to affirm the agencies’ commitment.
This strengthened partnership provides returning OFWs with clearer pathways to sustainable livelihoods, helping them rebuild life at home while contributing to a more robust tourism sector. By expanding reintegration options and creating more inclusive economic opportunities, programs like IPON ultimately benefit families and communities across the country, supporting national recovery through both tourism and empowered Filipino workers.
