The Department of Science and Technology – National Capital Region (DOST-NCR) is inviting returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to participate in its Innovations for Filipino Workers and their Families (iFWDPH) program, which offers business training, technical assistance, and funding support.
DOST-NCR Director Romelen Tresvalles highlighted the program during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas in Quezon City, emphasizing its goal of helping OFWs establish technology-based businesses. “Itong programa naman na ito, ninanais natin na yung ating mga OFWs pag umuwi sila dito, pwede silang mag-establish ng sarili nilang technology-based business,” she said.
The program provides capacity-building activities to help applicants explore business ideas, understand necessary competencies, and prepare documentary requirements. OFWs may also receive up to PHP500,000 in funding support, with zero interest, for equipment purchases.
Since its launch in 2020, iFWDPH has trained 810 OFWs, with 91 receiving funding, generating 129 jobs. The program supports ventures in agriculture, food processing, manufacturing, and ICT services in coordination with the Department of Migrant Workers.
Eligible OFWs who have returned within the last two to three years may apply by emailing iForwardPH@ncr.dost.gov.ph.
