The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) on Thursday, 13 February, formally inaugurated the Seafarers’ Welfare Center in Parañaque City, a facility dedicated to providing support and services to Filipino seafarers and their families.

The center is located at Monarch Parksuites along Bradco Avenue in the Aseana Business Park.

OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan said the facility aims to bring essential government services closer to maritime workers while promoting their overall well-being.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac expressed appreciation to maritime sector stakeholders for their continued support in advancing protection and empowerment programs for Filipino seafarers, as endorsed by the President and Congress.

Designed as a one-stop shop, the center houses services from the Social Security System, Pag-IBIG Fund, PhilHealth, and legal assistance from the Public Attorney’s Office. Medical support is also available through the OWWA YAKAP Clinic and Botika.

The facility features training rooms for capacity-building programs, as well as a Love Yourself Booth that offers sexual health and HIV awareness services. Recreational amenities such as the Migrants’ Brew café and OWWAoke area are also available for seafarers and their families.

The establishment of the Seafarers’ Welfare Center is in line with Republic Act No. 12021, or the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, which strengthens mechanisms to protect and promote the welfare of maritime workers.