Caraga: The regional offices of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) have relaunched their Innovations for Filipinos Working Distantly (iFWD PH) program. This initiative aims to provide science-based livelihood opportunities for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) returning to the Caraga region.
According to Philippines News Agency, the program is now in its sixth batch and continues to offer business training, mentoring, and technology interventions. These efforts are made possible through partnerships with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Migrant Workers. OWWA 13 (Caraga) officer in charge, Rodel Deligero, mentioned in an interview that 12 OFWs have been initially endorsed for this batch, with expectations for this number to grow as the program remains open.
DOST-13 Director Noel Ajoc explained that the initiative began during the Covid-19 pandemic to assist repatriated workers. Since its inception, the program has evolved from a crisis response to a sustainable opportunity creation initiative focused on science and technology. Deligero emphasized that participating OFWs will receive comprehensive training, mentoring, and coaching. The two- to three-month program includes weekly expert-led modules designed to develop business skills.