MIGRANT WORKERS in the city who have concerns can bring their issues before the OFW Crisis Center which launched on Monday.
Lawyer Marlisa Gallo, the head of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), said that aside from a hotline, OFWs may also use mobile and telephone numbers, and an official website for their concerns.
Galo said City Ordinance No. 0411-20 Series of 2020 institutionalized the establishment of the center which is mandated to focus on the protection of rights, interests, welfare, and development of the families of residents who left abroad for work.
Galo said even before the center could operate, her office received seven would-be clients, three of them OFWs while the remainder were relatives.
“Ang client gyud nga atoang na monitor kay kadtong nianhi na gyud sa atoang opisina og nakig-istorya na sa atoang socal workers. Gitutukan na sa atoang social workers kay ni-contact gyud sa atoang opisina,” Gallo said who pointed out that the main function of the center is to bring the concerns to government agencies and other bodies that could address these.
The center can also provide financial assistance, livelihood assistance, rescue, and psychosocial intervention depending on the assessed needs of the concerned families.
Gallo said that the center is currently in the stage of profiling OFWs based on the records obtained from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Her office also plans to discuss with other agencies catering to OFWs to avoid duplicity of pre-existing modes of assistance.
“Hopeful na makalingkod ta og usab kauban ang atoang mga partners para ihan-ay ang serbisyo sa atoang opisina,” she said.
Those who want to raise their concerns may reach OFW Crisis Center thru 0999 994 3577, or thru their landline number (082) 225 6214, email ofwcenter.davaocity@gmail.com, or message their official Facebook Page: OFW Families’ Welfare and Crisis Center Davao City.
