PAO backs legal aid program for OFWs

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) could soon have easier access to Philippine lawyers through secure online consultations under a proposed legal assistance program backed by the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO).

Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos has proposed the creation of the Overseas Filipino Workers Legal Advisory Assistance Program under the Presidential Action Center to provide free legal consultations to OFWs without requiring them to travel or incur significant expenses.

PAO chief Persida Rueda-Acosta said the program would help OFWs deal with legal concerns involving employment, family relations and property matters, particularly when distance prevents them from consulting lawyers or seeking assistance from Philippine government agencies.

The PAO would handle the consultations, with public attorneys taking part in scheduled legal advisory sessions.

Rueda-Acosta said Abalos had met with PAO and other concerned agencies to discuss the proposed program and recognized the legal difficulties often faced by OFWs.