Latest news with #MWODubai
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Some Filipino workers frustrated by limited online contract verification slots
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on July 7 launched a new online system that allows Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to submit and verify their documents remotely — without having to visit the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Dubai in person. This contract verification process is a crucial step for OFWs planning to travel to the Philippines, as it is a prerequisite for obtaining the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) — a document needed for re-entry into the UAE. However, as the MWO-Dubai begins pilot testing its new online verification system for OFWs, some residents are expressing concerns over the limited number of appointment slots being opened daily. Kris Ibesate, a 35-year-old food safety assistant manager, said the current system remains inconvenient and inefficient. 'It doesn't make sense that appointment slots are so limited. Even the requirement for contract verification itself feels excessive." Under the previous process, OFWs could submit documents online but were still required to visit the Philippine Consulate and MWO-Dubai in person to complete verification. Kris and her husband struggled to secure an appointment slot online despite trying multiple times over the two weeks leading up to their departure for the Philippines. 'It was incredibly stressful because our flights were already booked, and we weren't sure if we could go home this summer. We were worried it might affect our ability to return to the UAE,' Kris said. Limited slots With nearly one million Filipinos calling the UAE home — making up around 6.8 per cent of the total population — the smooth processing of employment documents is important, as it directly impacts one of the country's largest and most active expatriate communities. Currently, the system accepts up to 200 applications per weekday between 8am and 11.59pm, with officials noting the capacity may expand based on demand and evaluator availability. However, repeated attempts by this reporter to book a slot across several days — at 6am, 7am, 8am, and even midnight — yielded the same message: maximum application exceeded. Check out the screenshot below: Many, like Kris and her husband, have been trying since the pilot began, only to find slots consistently filled almost immediately. With no other option but to file for leave from work, Kris and her husband who live nearby, opted to walk in. But even then, the process was far from smooth. 'I queued from 8am to 1.30pm. Imagine those coming from far-off areas of Dubai, commuting just to stand in line. You spend nearly half your day there. That time could be spent resting or preparing for your trip home," she said. "And when you're finally inside, you're shuffled from one counter to another,' she added. Kris also questioned the lack of modern digital solutions. 'In today's world of AI and advanced tech, why can't they invest in an efficient app for this? Even the consulate's website feels outdated and isn't user-friendly at all.' Multiple queues Mary Ann Bautista, a teaching assistant supervisor at a private nursery, shared a similar frustration — particularly about the multiple queues inside the consulate. 'Even just to show the receipt of what you paid for, there's another queue,' said the 37-year-old Dubai resident. 'There are so many desks, and you have to line up at each one.' She also urged authorities to expand eligibility for online contract verification — especially for OFWs with lower basic salaries. 'Not everyone earns a high wage. I hope they reconsider and make the system more inclusive.' Ludy, another Dubai-based OFW, echoed similar concerns. 'There aren't enough staff to accommodate everyone, so you end up using your day off just to get your contract verified. I didn't finish until 6pm.' The 60-year-old domestic worker described the experience as exhausting. 'You're shuffled from one room to another, sometimes even transferred to a different building. The queue starts outside, so you're standing in the heat before you can even sit down inside." "It's a real struggle. The whole process is such a hassle, but we have no choice — it's something we need to do so we can go home.' While many are frustrated, some have had more positive experiences. Pinky Azarcon, a teaching assistant at a private nursery, recalled a smoother process during her visit to the consulate in July last year. That day, she said, slots were specifically set aside for school staff. 'They even gave us free food while we waited,' she said. 'The only issue was having to stand outside in the heat, waiting for the gates to open.' She found out about the opportunity through a TikTok post announcing that school employees could visit the consulate on that particular Saturday morning. Why are slots limited? Addressing the growing frustration, Atty John Rio A. Bautista, Labor Attaché of MWO Dubai, clarified that the current online verification system is still in its pilot phase. 'Slots are limited because this is just the preliminary trial of a new system before a wider or full-scale implementation,' he said. "The number of slots offered at the moment was computed based on the number of available evaluators, which is currently very limited." Atty Bautista further explained that the same staff responsible for reviewing online submissions are also tasked with evaluating documents submitted onsite by walk-in OFWs. "Evaluators will only have time to review online applications after all walk-in clients have been served," he noted. Online system pilot phase He also emphasised that the purpose of this pilot run is twofold — to test the functionality of the system and to assess how well OFWs respond to this new method. Bautista also noted that the online system is offered as an alternative. While walk-in processing remains available, especially for those with confirmed flights, the digital option was introduced for OFWs who urgently need contract verification. The online verification allows OFWs to submit their employment documents and have it verified, even if they don't have a scheduled departure yet. What happens after the pilot? When asked about the next steps once the 30-day pilot ends, Bautista explained that the system will undergo a thorough evaluation. This will be based on client feedback collected through post-process surveys, public comments, and an internal review of how effectively the system improved processes for both OFWs and the MWO. "Depending on the findings, the Department of Migrant Workers, through MWO-Dubai, will decide on how to best roll out the system and the improvements which may be necessary for it to be more user-friendly and accessible to more OFWs," Bautista said. To address the current limitations, MWO-Dubai is also exploring the possibility of assigning offsite evaluators. These would be DMW based in the Philippines who will be trained to review employment documents from the UAE. Having more evaluators, even remotely, would allow for a higher number of applications to be processed daily. Importance of contract verification According to Atty Bautista, contract verification plays a vital role in safeguarding the rights, benefits, and welfare of OFWs. By reviewing the terms of employment and comparing them with the standards set by both the Philippine and UAE governments, the MWO ensures that workers are treated fairly and in accordance with labour laws. "It also guarantees that OFWs are documented by the Philippine government," he said. "This makes it easier for the DMW to locate and assist them when needed." Dubai-based HR professional Allaine Alves echoed this sentiment. She emphasised that verified contracts aren't just for OFWs returning home — they also serve as essential documents for accessing key services. 'Having this record allows you to open bank accounts that don't require a deposit and makes registering for your Social Security System (SSS) retirement much easier,' said the 27-year-old OFW. She also pointed out another practical benefit: "It provides you with the advantage of tax exemption when travelling back home."
Filipino Times
15-07-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
OFWs in Dubai to benefit from one-stop Serbisyo Caravan in August; offers services from 10 gov't agencies
OFWs in Dubai will have direct access to a wide range of Philippine government services during a one-day service caravan on August 3 at the Exhibition Hall 8 of Dubai World Trade Center. Led by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) through the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) – Dubai, the Bagong Bayani ng Mundo – Serbisyo Caravan will bring together services from 10 Philippine government agencies, including assistance on consular, legal, financial, and health matters, making it a convenient one-stop venue for Filipinos in the UAE. 'The Caravan serves as a one-stop shop campaign to reintroduce participating government agencies' various programs and services, designed as a comprehensive outreach program to provide easy access to in-demand government services, deliver information sessions, and offer support channels to OFWs and their families,' MWO-Dubai said in an advisory. No pre-registration is required for the main event, which will run from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, a special PhilHealth service session will be held ahead of the main event, from July 28 to 30, 2025, at MWO Dubai (7:30 AM to 4:30 PM). This will require pre-registration, with further details to be announced. Here are the participating agencies and their services that will be available during the Serbisyo Caravan: Philippine Consulate General – Dubai Migrant Workers Office – Dubai Contract verification Assistance to Nationals (ATN) services Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) OWWA membership Issuance of E-card Acceptance of applications for Welfare Assistance Program (WAP) Welfare and other assistance Department of Trade and Industry – Philippine Trade and Investment Center (DTI-PTIC Dubai) Franchising opportunities Business and financial literacy programs Loan assistance via the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Information on DSWD programs and services for OFWs Psychosocial counseling Social Security System (SSS) Inquiries and verification Pensioner data change request and annual compliance confirmation Assistance with online services PAG-IBIG Fund New member registration Membership, records, and account services Modified Pag-IBIG II (MP2) enrollment Housing loan consultation and requirements Home matching and public auction briefing Multi-purpose loan application receiving Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) National ID registration and other related services Issuance of birth, marriage, death certificates CENOMAR/CENODEATH requests and civil registration consultation PhilHealth (Available only from July 28–30 at MWO Dubai) Frontline services Registration and data amendment Generation and issuance of PIN Konsulta registration Public Attorney's Office (PAO) Free legal assistance (judicial and quasi-judicial services)
Filipino Times
07-07-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
MWO Dubai's newly launched online contract verification registers 81 applicants within first 4 hours
Within just four hours of its launch, 81 OFWs have successfully submitted their required documents through the new online contract verification system introduced by the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. Although a few minor technical issues were reported, the MWO Dubai assured the applicants that fixes are already underway to ensure the system runs smoothly. 'This pilot launch marks a major step forward in making government services more accessible and efficient for our OFWs,' said Labor Attaché Atty. John Rio A. Bautista. 'We are encouraged by the strong initial response and are working to ensure the system can serve more applicants with ease. Consistent with our mandate to serve and protect OFWs, we are offering this: Digitalized. Mabilis. Walang pila online contract verification system.' The 30-day pilot program started on Monday, July 7, in partnership with DataFlow Group, as part of ongoing efforts to digitize services related to overseas employment. To prevent system overload and overcrowding, MWO Dubai has limited the number of daily appointment slots to 200 during this pilot phase. The platform remains open every day until all slots are filled or until 11:59 PM Dubai time. Applicants who miss the daily slots are advised to try again the following day, starting at 8:00 AM. Users are also reminded to clear their browser cookies before logging in to avoid errors or slow loading. For urgent cases, such as confirmed flight bookings, MWO will still provide in-person contract verification appointments one day before the scheduled departure. Related story: What OFWs need to know about the pilot implementation of 100% online contract verification in the UAE
Filipino Times
07-06-2025
- Health
- Filipino Times
MWO-Dubai kicks off vaccination program for parents and children
In celebration of International Children's Day and as part of its unwavering commitment to the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families, the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Dubai, in partnership with OWWA and Grand Infinity Medical Center, successfully launched a targeted vaccination drive on 01 June 2025 at MWO Dubai. The program was specially designed for parents and children whose UAE documentary status is still under process, and are currently receiving assistance from MWO Dubai's Assistance to Nationals Section. While waiting for their documentary requirements for repatriation, the event responded to the pressing health needs of these children, who are often unable to access basic medical services in both public and private healthcare institutions due to a lack of official documentation and financial resources. The vaccination drive provided them with crucial immunizations and healthcare support. A total of 22 parents received medical check-ups, and 29 children were vaccinated as part of the initiative. The children were brought to Grand Infinity's clinic in Muhaisnah 4, Dubai, where they received professional care in a safe and supportive environment. The beneficiaries also received financial assistance under the AKSYON Fund, along with gift items from MWO Dubai, OWWA, and Grand Infinity Medical Center, and food packs distributed throughout the event. In addition, parents participated in a basic childcare orientation, equipping them with vital knowledge for ensuring the well-being of their children. The event was honored by the presence of high-ranking officials, including Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, Consul General Marford Angeles, Undersecretaries Felicitas Q. Bay and Jainal T. Rasul, Vice-Consul Aleah Marie B. Gica, and Director Julyn Ambito Fermin. In his remarks, Secretary Cacdac emphasized the administration's continuing pledge under President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. to ensure that all OFWs and their families are afforded access to proper documentation and medical care—regardless of status. This initiative builds on the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed between MWO Dubai and Grand Infinity Medical Center on 14 February 2025, which aims to expand access to healthcare services for OFWs and their families in the UAE.
Filipino Times
07-06-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
DMW Secretary meets OFWs affected by the Al Barsha fire
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac personally met with Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) affected by the recent fire in Al Barsha 1 during the third batch of emergency assistance held on 31 May 2025 at the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Dubai. Secretary Cacdac expressed his deep empathy for the victims and inquired about their current condition and needs following the tragic incident. He noted that most of the OFWs residing in the affected building were living in shared accommodations, often referred to as 'partitions,' which offer more affordable housing. During the gathering, Secretary Cacdac also announced that financial assistance will not only be provided to the affected OFWs in Dubai but also extended to their families in the Philippines. This move aims to help ease the economic burden on families who have been impacted by the unfortunate event. Tragically, two OFWs lost their lives during the fire. The remains of one of the deceased were successfully repatriated on 26 May 2025 through the AKSYON Fund. The repatriation of the second casualty will be facilitated by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), with assistance from MWO Dubai for all necessary documentation and coordination with the bereaved family. DMW will likewise extend assistance to the NOK of the fatalities. In addition, the Secretary met with five (5) OFWs who were injured during the explosion and were rushed to Rashid Hospital then transferred to Jebel Ali Hospital. Most of the injuries were minor, and the victims have since been discharged. These individuals were also among the recipients of emergency assistance during the third distribution. The third batch of emergency assistance benefited 145 OFWs, bringing the total number of assisted individuals to 484. This follows the 198 OFWs served during the first batch and 141 during the second. All assistance was made possible through the AKSYON Fund, the DMW's dedicated financial aid program for distressed migrant workers. The Al Barsha fire, which occurred on 13 May 2025, affected hundreds of Filipino residents, prompting a swift and coordinated response from the DMW, through MWO Dubai. The Department continues to work closely with UAE authorities and local partners to ensure that all affected OFWs receive the support necessary to recover and rebuild their lives.
