The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) serves as a vital bridge between Filipino job seekers and the global employment market. In partnership with various stakeholders, POEA strives to create and maintain decent job opportunities for Filipino migrant workers while ensuring their rights and welfare are protected throughout their overseas employment journey.
Also read: List of Overseas Employment Agencies in Cebu
As an advocate for the smooth reintegration of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) into Philippine society, POEA works closely with government agencies, non-government organizations, and private sector partners to provide comprehensive support services for OFWs and their families.
Services Offered
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) offers a variety of services aimed at supporting job seekers, employers, and overseas Filipino workers throughout the entire employment process.
1. Employment Facilitation
POEA helps job seekers find suitable employment opportunities by carefully assessing their qualifications, skills, and preferences. The agency also verifies all relevant employment documents submitted by job seekers to ensure their authenticity and compliance with the requirements of prospective employers.
2. Issuance of Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)
POEA assists job seekers in obtaining their OEC, a mandatory requirement for overseas Filipino workers, ensuring that they are authorized to work abroad.
3. Community Outreach Program
POEA’s Community Outreach Program is aimed at assisting vulnerable sectors of society, such as underprivileged communities and individuals with limited access to education and employment opportunities. Through this program, the agency offers skills training, livelihood assistance, career guidance, and counseling services.
4. Training and Workers Development
POEA offers various training programs and workshops aimed at improving the skills and employability of job seekers. These programs cover a wide range of topics, from language proficiency to industry-specific skills, allowing individuals to enhance their qualifications and increase their chances of finding employment opportunities.
5. Reintegration Preparedness Program
POEA provides reintegration preparedness programs designed to help overseas workers transition back to the Philippines after their employment has ended. These programs include financial management, entrepreneurship, and psychosocial support services.
6. Welfare Assistance Program
POEA’s Welfare Assistance Program provides support services to assist overseas workers in addressing any challenges they may face during their employment, such as disputes with employers or recruitment agencies. This program also includes legal assistance, counseling, and repatriation support for workers in need.
By offering these comprehensive services, POEA aims to empower individuals and communities to achieve their full potential and contribute to the overall economic development of the country.
Requirements for Overseas Employment
Individuals seeking overseas employment must comply with certain requirements to ensure their protection and welfare.
Some of the key requirements for overseas employment include:
- Valid Passport: Job seekers must have a valid passport with an expiry date that extends beyond the duration of their intended employment contract.
- Appropriate Visa and Work Permit: Applicants must secure the appropriate visa and work permit for the country where they plan to work, as required by the host country’s immigration laws and regulations.
- Pre-employment Medical Examination: Job seekers are required to undergo a pre-employment medical examination from a clinic or hospital accredited by the destination country or the recruitment agency to ensure they are fit to work abroad.
- Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS): Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) must attend a Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) conducted by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) or an accredited non-government organization. The PDOS provides information on the rights and responsibilities of OFWs, as well as the culture, laws, and practices of the host country.
- Overseas Worker Welfare Administration (OWWA) Membership: OFWs must become members of the OWWA, which provides various benefits and services such as insurance coverage, repatriation assistance, and scholarship programs for dependents.
- Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Coverage: OFWs are required to maintain their PhilHealth membership to ensure access to healthcare services while working abroad.
- Social Security System (SSS) Membership: Job seekers must be registered members of the Social Security System (SSS) to ensure their access to social security benefits such as retirement, disability, and death benefits.
- Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC): OFWs must obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) from the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). The OEC serves as proof of legitimate overseas employment and is required for exit clearance at the airport.
- Employment Contract: Job seekers must have a valid employment contract signed by both the employee and employer, which outlines the terms and conditions of employment, including salary, working hours, and benefits.
By fulfilling these requirements, job seekers can ensure their protection and welfare while working abroad and comply with the regulations set by the Philippine government and the host country.
Online Services Offered by POEA
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) provides a range of online services to facilitate the overseas employment process for job seekers, recruitment agencies, and employers. These online services enable users to access essential information and complete necessary procedures conveniently and efficiently.
Also read: Basic Things to Know about Employment in Cebu
Some of the key online services offered by POEA include:
- Verification of Agency’s Job Orders: This service allows job seekers to verify the legitimacy of job orders posted by recruitment agencies, ensuring that they are applying for genuine employment opportunities.
- Verification of Status of Recruitment Agencies: Users can check the licensing status and accreditation of recruitment agencies to confirm their legitimacy and compliance with POEA regulations.
- Adjudication Cases Monitor: This online service provides information on the status of adjudication cases filed at POEA, allowing users to track the progress of their complaints or disputes.
- Balik-Manggagawa Online Processing: Returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) can use this service to secure an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) or an OEC exemption, which is required for exit clearance at the airport.
- E-Registration: Job seekers can create an online profile through the E-Registration system, allowing them to apply for job vacancies posted by licensed recruitment agencies.
- SRA/LOA Online Application System: Recruitment agencies can use this service to submit applications for Special Recruitment Authority (SRA) or Letter of Authority (LOA), which are necessary for conducting recruitment activities outside their registered offices.
- Phil-JobNet: Through the Phil-JobNet platform, job seekers can access a wide range of local and overseas job vacancies, while employers can post job openings and search for qualified candidates.
- Seafarer Verification: This service enables users to verify the authenticity of seafarer documents such as Certificates of Competency (COC) and Certificates of Proficiency (COP) issued by the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).
By offering these online services, POEA aims to streamline the overseas employment process for all stakeholders, promoting transparency and efficiency while ensuring the protection and welfare of Filipino workers.
Overseas Jobs through Government Placement Branch
The Government Placement Branch (GPB) is a division of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) that focuses on facilitating the recruitment and deployment of Filipino workers for overseas job opportunities offered by government-to-government agreements. This means that the GPB works closely with foreign governments and international organizations to provide Filipino workers with legitimate and secure employment opportunities abroad.
Some of the key benefits of applying for overseas jobs through the Government Placement Branch include:
- No placement fees: Applicants are not required to pay any placement fees when applying for job vacancies through the GPB, reducing the financial burden on job seekers.
- Government-to-government agreements: Job opportunities facilitated by the GPB are based on formal agreements between the Philippine government and foreign governments or international organizations, ensuring the legitimacy and security of employment opportunities.
- Transparent recruitment process: The GPB adheres to a transparent and fair recruitment process, eliminating the risk of illegal recruitment practices and providing equal opportunities for all qualified applicants.
- Assistance with documentation: The GPB assists successful applicants in processing their employment documents and obtaining the necessary permits and certifications, such as the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC).
- Pre-departure orientation: Applicants who secure jobs through the GPB are provided with a Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) to prepare them for their overseas employment and educate them about their rights, responsibilities, and the culture of the host country.
To apply for overseas jobs through the Government Placement Branch, job seekers can visit the POEA website and check the latest job postings under the “Jobs at POEA” section.
By offering these services, the Government Placement Branch plays a vital role in connecting Filipino workers with secure and well-regulated overseas job opportunities, promoting their welfare and contributing to the economic development of the country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the role of POEA?
A: The POEA collaborates with different parties to create and maintain good job opportunities for Filipino migrant workers, safeguard their welfare, and support their successful reintegration into Philippine society.
2. How do I verify the legitimacy of a recruitment agency?
A: The POEA is responsible for licensing and regulating all recruitment agencies in the country. To check if a recruitment agency is valid or not, you can use the online service provided by POEA to verify its status.
3. What is an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)?
A: The OEC, which is also referred to as an exit clearance or pass, is a certification document demonstrating that an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) has been recruited and documented properly and is registered with POEA. The worker must present the OEC to the immigration officer upon leaving the Philippines.
4. Can I get OEC without an appointment?
A: It is recommended that individuals who are currently employed abroad should visit the nearest POLO-OWWA office to obtain the OEC. If an OFW’s DMW records are active and they are returning to the same job site or company, they can apply for their OEC exemption online. There is no need for them to schedule an OEC appointment.
5. What is the Government Placement Branch (GPB)?
A: The Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who work for the government are hired by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) Government Placement Branch (GPB) unit. Private recruitment agencies are not involved in the recruitment process of these OFWs. Therefore, you are not required to pay placement fees, but only processing and other fees.
6. How do I search for overseas job opportunities through POEA?
A: You can search for overseas job opportunities by visiting the POEA website and checking the latest job postings under the “Job Vacancies” section. You can also register your profile with the E-Registration system to receive updates on new job opportunities and submit your applications online.
By understanding these frequently asked questions, you can better navigate the services and processes offered by POEA and ensure a smooth and secure overseas employment experience.
Summary
If you are looking to work abroad, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) in Cebu can serve as your ultimate guide. This government agency aims to protect the rights of Filipino overseas workers, and they offer a variety of services that will make your overseas job application process more manageable. With their vast network of accredited agencies and employers, the POEA Cebu can match you with job opportunities that match your skills, education, and experience.
They also provide pre-employment orientations, counseling services, and issue overseas employment certificates that are essential for both employees and employers. Stay informed and take advantage of the assistance of POEA Cebu so you can find the right employment opportunity abroad.
Contact Information
Located in: Department of Labor and Address: Employment – Region VII Central Visayas
Address: G/F, DOLE Bldg. (Old Insular Bldg.), Gorordo, cor General Maxilom Ave, Cebu City
Website: https://www.dmw.gov.ph/
POEA Hotlines: 8-722-11-44 / 8-722-11-55
E-mail Address: connect@poea.gov.ph
Phone: (032) 231 1003
Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Monday – Friday)
