DOLE chief: ‘Brain gain’ program in the works

To respond to the brain drain from the exodus of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the government is planning a “brain-gain" program for returning OFWs, enhancing their skills and providing them with entrepreneurship opportunities. Tentatively dubbed “Balik-Trabaho sa Pilipinas," the project will provide OFW returnees with the option to stay in the Philippines to work for better-paying jobs or to set up a lucrative business at home, according to Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz. “The DOLE will also link up with labor, business, and other partners in providing an enabling and conducive environment that will encourage the return of our OFWs," said Baldoz. She added that the program will also provide OFWs with real-time information on available jobs and labor market developments, accreditation, and permits for reemployment. Baldoz said the measure belongs to the strategies outlined in the Philippine Labor and Employment Plan — which seeks to attain the goal of inclusive growth in the next six years, along with the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016. — PE/VS, GMA News