BPI Foundation supports OFWs to survive in the new normal

BPI Foundation, the social development arm of the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), continues to extend assistance to the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families greatly affected by the COVID-19 crisis.

“We recognize the great contribution of our dear OFWs in nation-building. And part of our social responsibility is to give back and support them, especially in challenging times,” said BPI Foundation Executive Director Owen Cammayo.

Many OFWs lost their jobs, displaced from work, and are forced to return home. Some Filipinos even stayed abroad to wait for the developments in their host countries hoping they could return to work again.

Through BPI Foundation’s “Lingap OFW project” with Atikha –a non-government organization that provides economic and social services to OFWs and their families in the Philippines –hundreds of relief packs including food and hygiene items were distributed to over 400 families of migrant workers in Central Luzon, CALABARZON, Bicol, and Western Visayas.

“We are thankful to our partner, BPI Foundation, for making this relief project a reality. The smiles and words of gratitude of the 400 families we’ve reached were really heartwarming,” Atikha Executive Director Aileen Peñas said.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Edcel Dador, an OFW from UAE who returned to his hometown in Leganes, Iloilo said, “I lost my job and was forced to go home because of the pandemic. Thank you for helping us to survive.”

Aside from food assistance, BPI Foundation, through its “FinEd Unboxed” program, also initiated a financial education digital learning sessions for OFWs titled “PinoyWise iTV” together with Atikha.

Thousands of migrant workers and other viewers around the world have tuned in the weekly learning sessions on Facebook. Since its first broadcast in June, the audience learned various topics including the agribusiness opportunities in time of crisis, impact of remittance on the lives of OFW families, challenges and chances for returning OFWs, and more.

“I learned a lot while watching the episodes. The speakers gave me new ideas on what I can do during reintegration. This program reminded me of the importance of financial management and it inspired me as well that we can survive this crisis together,” said Ms. Ana Dumancas, an OFW from Singapore.

To help more Filipinos abroad in adjusting in the new economy, the learning sessions will be provided until December this year.

“Today is the best time to prepare for tomorrow. By developing these financial management skills and instilling a mindset for financial responsibility, we can bounce back stronger and build back a better Philippines,” Mr. Cammayo said.