DoJ tests virtual legal aid for OFWs

The Department of Justice (DoJ) has completed the pilot rollout of an online legal consultation platform designed to help overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) access legal assistance regardless of their location.

Called E-payo, the platform was tested on 30 October, with DoJ Action Center (DoJAC) lawyers from various regional offices providing real-time legal guidance and dispute resolution assistance through virtual consultation rooms.

The full-day pilot, held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Philippine time, assisted 10 OFWs based overseas, addressing the geographical barriers that often prevent migrant workers from seeking legal remedies.

“Distance should not stand between Filipinos and access to justice,” said DoJ Action Center officer-in-charge Undersecretary Margarita N. Gutierrez.