Senate pushed to pass OFW bill

A CONGRESSMAN on Sunday urged the Senate to fast-track its approval of a bill proposing a “reintegration” scheme for returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), amid an expected influx in the first quarter.

In a statement, Party-list Rep. Jude A. Acidre said senators should swiftly pass their version of a measure that would support the assimilation of OFWs, helping them transition back into local employment after working abroad.

The House approved House Bill No. 6643 in December 2025, sending it directly to the Senate for their counterpart action, he said.

“Every first quarter of the year, we see OFWs come home with plans to rebuild their lives,” Mr. Acidre, who heads the House Overseas Workers Affairs Committee, said. “This bill ensures they are not left to navigate that transition alone, but are met with clear pathways to work, livelihood, and family stability.” — Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio