The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Monday guaranteed that overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) will continue to receive essential welfare and reintegration services, following the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) approval of the agency’s request for exemption from the election spending ban.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the Comelec granted exemptions for seven major programs under Section 261 (V) of the Omnibus Election Code and Comelec Resolution No. 11060, which prohibits government fund disbursement for social services from March 28 to May 11 — or 45 days before the May 12 elections.
Included in the exemption are the AKSYON Fund, 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.
“These services are considered urgent and essential so we typically seek exemptions during election periods,” Cacdac said in Filipino.
Comelec approved the exemption with strict safeguards to prevent misuse, such as barring political candidates from participating in aid distribution and mandating regular reports to Regional Election Directors.
Comelec clarified that while the exemption allows continued operations, it does not protect any violation from future investigation if electioneering or fund misuse is reported.
The DMW also secured clearance to continue job fairs and overseas deployment, noting that these services are time-sensitive. “If someone needs to be deployed abroad, they shouldn’t have to wait until after the elections. These are urgent needs,” Cacdac explained.
He thanked the Comelec for its approval, stating, “Our priority is to guarantee uninterrupted support and services for our OFWs and their families.”
