With the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) assuming leadership of agencies tasked with assisting overseas Filipino workers, the establishment of the One Repatriation Command Center (ORCC) is a significant step in their efforts. As its name implies, the ORCC seeks to streamline and optimize the process of repatriating stranded OFWs and to facilitate their safe return home.
As incidences of OFW kidnapping, trafficking, and other types of abuse continue to be documented, the establishment of this command center is welcomed by many. Nonetheless, what does the ORCC do and how does it operate? This article examines the core tasks of the ORCC to respond to these questions. Keep reading to learn more.
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What does ORCC stand for?
ORCC is the abbreviation for One Repatriation Command Center. It is a government agency whose mission is to facilitate the repatriation of distressed OFWs. The ORCC will also facilitate the safe repatriation of family members who have been victims of exploitation, abuse, or other unlawful conduct overseas.
Under the DMW, this “command center” will oversee all repatriation-related matters. It will coordinate the work of other agencies, including the Department of Labor and the Office of Women and Workforce Affairs. The ORCC will also interact with other government entities tasked with aiding OFWs in peril overseas. Objective of ORCC
Even though several government institutions already deal with overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), there is no single entity that oversees their return when necessary. In its early phases, the ORCC is anticipated to fill this void. The ORCC will serve as the point of contact for OFWs requiring help overseas. It will also act as a repository for data regarding Filipinos in distress and their employment status in other places.
As the number of OFWs in difficulty overseas rises, the ORCC will be able to coordinate repatriation efforts more effectively. It will also serve as a one-stop shop for OFWs and their families seeking information on how to obtain assistance abroad.
The objective is for the ORCC to eventually become independent from DSWD, which already has a substantial workload. The ORCC will be responsible for addressing the needs and concerns of OFWs and their families and protecting them from abuse. Additionally, it must supervise the execution of legislation that promotes their well-being.
Before, many OFWs in the Philippines sought assistance from government authorities. With the One Repatriation Command Center, they may now obtain quick assistance. This reduces their need to undergo a lengthy procedure.
ORCC’s Duties and Responsibilities
The ORCC is the national focal point for the repatriation of overseas Filipino workers and their families. It must also offer help to returning OFWs, including medical and legal aid. It should also assist students in finding employment in their host countries so they can sustain themselves when they return home. The ORCC is responsible for ensuring that all OFWs receive proper orientation before departing the Philippines.
The ORCC is responsible for promoting the welfare of Filipino migrant workers and their families as a vital component of the DMW. Additionally, it must ensure that they are well-informed of laws and regulations that will influence them abroad. The ORCC is responsible for assisting OFWs who have been victims of human trafficking, illegal recruitment, or other offences relating to the OFW industry.
With this, OFWs will no longer be exploited, tortured, and mistreated. The ORCC must also ensure that all OFWs are legally protected abroad. It is tasked with assisting Filipino migrant employees with labor disputes, unpaid wages, wrongful termination, and other concerns linked to their employment contracts. List of ORCC Programs and Services
Given that the organization is still in its infancy, it has yet to reveal its long-term initiatives and services. However, the organization has already begun its activities by establishing a hotline that OFWs and their families can call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for any support or information regarding their welfare abroad.
ORCC Emergency Telephone Number – 1348
Families of overseas Filipino workers who require assistance can utilize the facility’s services. For assistance, they can call One Repat-toll-free DMW’s hotline at 1348.
ORCC HelpDesk Office Availability
It is also possible to contact the agency through its support desk. Monday through Friday, the office is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please be informed that the ORCC building office is closed on weekends, however assistance is available by phone and email around the clock.
ORCC 24/7 Hotline – 1348
Email address: repat@dmw.gov.ph
You can contact the DMW’s phone center at (1348) or repat@dmw.gov.ph. A professional will answer your call and provide online assistance.
If you are an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) and require assistance, you may also contact the POLO-OWWA offices in your country. In nations where no DMW-affiliated labor offices exist, however, you can coordinate with the DFA. These are located in embassies and consulates close to your place of employment.
Video: The Department of Migrant Workers launches “One Repatriation Command Center”
In this video, the Department of Migrant Workers unveils a new center that aims to respond swiftly to repatriation requests from our overseas compatriots.
According to DMW Secretary Toots Ople, the One Repat-DMW is open for walk-in questions and may be reached via phone or email. With this, OFWs and their loved ones will be able to receive updates on their cases and offer the government feedback on what they require.
Frequently Asked Questions About the ORCC
1. How does the Centralized Command Center help overseas workers?
The command center of the DMW is a centralized network that will aid in monitoring the repatriation of distressed overseas Filipino workers. In addition, it will coordinate with government agencies and other interested parties. Regardless of their status, all requests for the return of OFWs shall be fulfilled.
This ensures that no matter your status as an OFW abroad, you can get the help you need.
2. What is the significance of One Repat-DMW?
With the DMW at the helm, the government can coordinate among various departments to assist the thousands of returning Filipinos.
3. What is a repatriated OFW?
In the event of natural disasters or political instability, the government offers workers emergency aid. They are offered housing, transportation, and psychosocial therapy at the OWWA Halfway Home.
4. How does One Repat-DMW administer repatriation cases?
Suppose an OFW or their family members are experiencing difficulties with repatriation from overseas and require assistance. In that case, they can phone the One Repat-DMW hotline “1-348” and a team of case officers will assist them. Additionally, walk-in requests for assistance are accepted.
5. How does the One Repat – DMW address the challenges of distressed OFWs?
In the past, OFWs and their families needed assistance from multiple agencies.
With the ORCC, families from the provinces that go all the way to Manila would not incur unnecessary debts and expenses while waiting for government agencies to respond, as the organization will provide assistance instantly. They will also be able to receive assistance more quickly.
6. How does the ORCC aid in the repatriation of distressed OFWs?
The agency will provide aid to repatriation of OFWs and their families back home if they require assistance with their return. This includes giving aid for the repatriation of OFWs and their dependents. If they are currently working but require support with their return, the firm will also assist them in finding jobs overseas or back home.
7. What role do OFW-focused organizations play in the repatriation process?
ORCC, POEA, and DOLE are government entities entrusted with assisting OFWs. They provide free assistance with round-trip tickets and other travel paperwork, financial assistance for repatriation costs and job placement assistance if needed.
8. How does the DMW help OFWs who are experiencing abuse?
The DMW will coordinate with Philippine embassies in relevant countries and provide immediate assistance to distressed overseas Filipino workers, including those who have experienced abuse, violence or exploitation abroad. This network of embassies will also be a resource for OFWs who need to report or seek assistance in cases of abuse, violence and exploitation.
9. What cases do not fall under the jurisdiction of the DMW?
Cases that do not involve trafficking victims and undocumented migrants are out of the scope of this directive.
Summary
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) established the One Repatriation Command Center (One Repat-DMW) to address the diverse difficulties faced by Filipino workers abroad. This facility is also intended to enable the repatriation of individuals in an emergency. The facility is housed within the Blas F. Ople Building on EDSA, close to Ortigas Avenue. Additionally, it has a branch office at the OWWA.
The Department of Manpower’s establishment of the ORCC is a commendable effort to aid overseas Filipino employees. It will enable them to receive urgent assistance.
The ORCC is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Its 1348 hotline is also available on weekends for enquiries. Additionally, you can email the facility at repat@dmw.gov.ph.
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Contact Information
One Repat Center
Address: 2nd floor of the Blas F. Ople Building, EDSA and Ortigas Avenue
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm
Telephone Number: 1348 (available 24/7, even weekends)
Email: repat@dmw.gov.ph
Website: https://dmw.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/dmw.gov.ph
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