Article by:
Ma. Teresa Montemayor
MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday expressed support for the proposed Bagong Balikbayan Act, saying the measure would institutionalize a comprehensive and sustainable reintegration framework for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
During a Senate hearing, DOH Undersecretary Albert Domingo said reintegration should not be viewed solely as an economic or labor concern but also as a public health and social protection issue.
“Maraming mga bumabalik na OFW ang nahaharap sa mga hindi nagagamot na kondisyong medikal, mga panganib sa kalusugan ng trabaho na nakuha sa ibang bansa, at psychosocial stress na nauugnay sa migration at pagkahiwalay sa pamilya (Many returning OFWs face untreated medical conditions, occupational health risks acquired abroad, and psychosocial stress linked to migration and prolonged separation from their families),” he said.
He emphasized that addressing these concerns is crucial to ensure that returning workers can fully recover and reintegrate into their families and communities.
The DOH noted that the proposed measure is aligned with existing national policies such as Republic Act (RA) 11223 or the Universal Health Care Act and RA 11036 or the Mental Health Act, which mandate the State to provide comprehensive health and mental health services to all Filipinos, including migrant workers and returning nationals.
Recent developments in the Middle East further highlight the need for a clear reintegration framework, the DOH said, citing the significant number of Filipinos deployed in the region.
Domingo said escalating tensions may lead to situations where returning OFWs would require medical screening, psychosocial support, and continuity of care upon arrival in the country.
“Bilang paghahanda sa mga ganitong sitwasyon, pinangungunahan na ng DOH ang koordinasyon sa sektor ng kalusugan upang suportahan ang mga bumabalik na Pilipino (As part of preparedness efforts, the DOH is leading coordination within the health sector to support returning Filipinos),” he said.
The department also recognized that reintegration should include pathways to productive employment.
In coordination with other government agencies, the DOH said it is supporting initiatives such as job fairs and recruitment activities that connect returning OFWs to employment opportunities in the health sector, including positions in DOH hospitals, Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers, and other health facilities and offices nationwide.
Given these considerations, the DOH underscored the importance of the proposed legislation as a step toward institutionalizing a whole-of-government mechanism for reintegration that safeguards not only the economic welfare but also the health and well-being of returning workers and their families.
Domingo said the DOH would submit its signed and detailed position paper on the measure to the Senate. (PNA)
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