By Marita Moaje
MANILA – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Monday assured overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) of uninterrupted welfare and reintegration services after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) granted the agency an exemption from the election spending ban.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said Comelec has approved the exemption for seven key programs under Section 261 (V) of the Omnibus Election Code and Comelec Resolution No. 11060, which prohibits the disbursement of public funds for social services between March 28 and May 11 —or 45 days before the May 12 elections.
Among the exempted programs are the distribution of assistance through the AKSYON Fund and core reintegration initiatives such as Sa ‘Pinas, Ikaw ang Ma’am at Sir (SPIMS), Balik Pinas! Balik Hanapbuhay!, the Livelihood Development Assistance Program (LDAP), and the Kalinga wellness and psychosocial support program for OFWs and their families.
“These services are considered urgent and essential so we typically seek exemptions during election periods,” Cacdac said in Filipino.
The Comelec approved the exemption with safeguards in place to prevent any misuse of public resources.
These include barring political candidates from aid distributions following Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) protocols, and requiring regular reporting to Regional Election Directors.
While the certificate of exemption ensures continuity, the Comelec said it does not shield any violations from future investigation should there be reports of electioneering or misuse, as stated under Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code.
Cacdac also confirmed that the DMW received clearance to continue employment facilitation activities, such as job fairs and overseas deployment, highlighting the urgency of these services for OFWs.
“If someone needs to be deployed abroad, they shouldn’t have to wait until after the elections. These are urgent needs,” he said.
Cacdac expressed gratitude to the Comelec for its decision, emphasizing the DMW’s core mandate.
“Our priority is to guarantee uninterrupted support and services for our OFWs and their families,” he added. (PNA)
