THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) XI through its National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) have recently assisted 189 former OFWs with its small business management trainings (SBMT) and financial awareness seminars (FAS).

SBMT and FAS serve as a pre-requisite for the beneficiaries to avail of provisions to jump start their businesses.

Out of 189 who underwent SBMT and FAS from February to May 2016, 48 have already completed the requirements and availed of financial and starter kits assistance. The trainings and seminars were held in New Corella, Davao City, Panabo City, Mati City, and Digos City.

16 beneficiaries are covered under the NRCO’s Livelihood Development Assistance Program (LDAP) which provides a cash assistance of P10,000 per beneficiary  while 32 are under the Balik Pinay, Balik Hanapbuhay program which offers free skills training with starter kits on basic baking and cake decorating, food and meat processing and beauty care.

Most of the former OFW beneficiaries were either displaced, distressed, and undocumented OFWs. NRCO’s livelihood program is a way of encouraging former OFWs to become entrepreneurs instead of opting to work abroad.

The remaining beneficiaries are still on the process of complying their requirements and will be provided with provisions within the year.

Kriztja Marae G. Labrador/LCO-DOLEXI