Philippines to give training and livelihood support for OFWs returning from Mideast

By the Editorial Team · Monday, August 3, 2026

The Philippine government is launching new training and livelihood programs to assist Overseas Filipino Workers returning from conflict-affected Middle Eastern regions in reintegrating into the local workforce. This effort, involving DOLE, DMW, and TESDA, includes monthly job fairs starting September 2026 and aims to provide sustainable employment and business opportunities amid ongoing displacement challenges.

The Philippine government is launching new training and livelihood support programs for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) returning from conflict-affected areas in the Middle East, aiming to facilitate their reintegration into the local workforce. The Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) announced that it will collaborate with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to provide skills development, employment opportunities, and livelihood assistance for returning OFWs.

DOLE Acting Secretary Francis Tolentino said in an interview that the agencies have agreed to strengthen reintegration efforts following discussions with DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac. “Two weeks ago, Secretary Cacdac and I agreed, along with TESDA, to strengthen the reintegration programme,” Tolentino said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to aiding returning workers as they transition from overseas employment.

The initiative targets not only those seeking new jobs but also OFWs interested in starting their own businesses. In particular, the program aims to support groups pooling resources to establish small enterprises by providing livelihood assistance through DOLE and TESDA.

Reintegration efforts are already underway, with the goal of helping workers secure sustainable livelihood opportunities after returning to the Philippines. This initiative aligns with broader government strategies to boost domestic employment.

As part of this push, DOLE plans to begin holding monthly job fairs starting in September 2026 to expand employment offerings nationwide. The move follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent State of the Nation Address, where he outlined measures to strengthen job creation and support for workers across the country.

These programs come amid ongoing challenges faced by OFWs returning from the Middle East, particularly those displaced by regional conflicts, highlighting the government’s focus on ensuring their smooth reentry into the Philippine labor market.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.