PHL execs note sharp rise in OWWA applications in Marianas

Philippine authorities have noted a sharp increase in the number of Filipino workers in the Marianas applying for Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) membership. In a news release of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Philippine Consulate General in Saipan noted the significant rise in OWWA membership applications during a consular outreach held Oct. 1 and 2 at the Northern Marianas College-Rota Campus. “A total of 116 OWWA applications were processed during the two-day service, indicating the importance of OWWA membership to overseas Filipinos," the DFA said. According to the report, the numbers increased because of the P2-billion livelihood fund that members can avail of in the Philippines. Aside from the membership applications, the consular team—headed by Consul General Medardo Macaraig—worked on: