While the initial repatriation of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) during crises often involves navigating contact procedures, waiting times and anxiety, the more significant challenge begins upon their return to the Philippines: starting over.

Under the Department of Migrant Workers’ (DMW) AKSYON Fund, repatriated OFWs are entitled to various forms of assistance, including legal, medical, repatriation, emergency and financial aid. Financial assistance has increased to between P50,000 and P100,000 depending on the worker’s situation, up from P30,000 in 2023.

However, questions remain about the long-term support provided after the initial financial aid.

Cristy Lavador, a former OFW in Lebanon from Quezon Province, was repatriated in October 2024 and said she promptly received government financial assistance and P10,000 from her mayor.

Despite promises of reintegration services from the Technological Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Lavador said she has not received a call for training. TESDA plays a crucial role in offering skills training and retooling programs to help returning OFWs find employment or start businesses.

“They gave money, but after that, we didn’t hear anything from them,” Lavador said.

Currently, Lavador works as a private cook in Mandaluyong City, earning around P16,000 a month. While her employer covers rent, her salary is significantly less than what she earned abroad.

“It’s enough, but barely. There’s school, food, electricity, water, internet, and if someone gets sick,” she said, adding that she often requests salary advances from her employer.

Lavador’s long-term goals include building a proper home for her family in Quezon and earning enough to support her 16-year-old child’s education and household expenses. She is also considering employment in Malaysia as a domestic worker but fears she may exceed Malaysia’s 45-year-old age limit for workers.

“That’s what’s written in the DMW contract. Even if Malaysia agrees, immigration here in the Philippines won’t allow it,” she said.