Good news for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs)! The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will be offering an assistance package for OFWs who are planning on opening a technology-based business.
DOST Secretary Fortunato Dela Peña recently announced that the agency had a meeting regarding this program and has come up with plans to set the wheels in motion.
Information Drive
Because this is a new program, the DOST plans on creating and disseminating brochures that aim to provide OFWs with an idea of what they can enjoy with the program.
OFWs have the option to avail of the DOST’s full services should they plan on opening a new business or simply join training programs to gain more skills in case they only need retraining but already have their own business.
“We will provide them with orientation, depending on their decision if they would like to put up a technology-based enterprise. We will brief them first, then there might be a need to tour some of them in our facilities,” Dela Peña said.
Training and Assistance
Once the OFW decides on availing the DOST’s program, trainings and technical assistance will be provided, depending on what is needed.
For food processing and other manufacturing technologies, OFWs can undergo training under the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), a DOST-attached agency.
For livestock and aquaculture, trainings are provided by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD).
The PCIEERD (Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development) also provides assistance to start-ups.
Those who already have a business operating for 3 years can avail of the SETUP (Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program). Through this program, OFWs can avail of a loan which is payable in 3 years.
Dedicated OFW Desks
To further help OFWs in growing their business, the DOST also plans on setting up dedicated OFW desks that would not only provide assistance but will also help market their goods and services.
“There are OFWs and OFW groups working in science and engineering. We will help them market their services, and provide them with technical assistance they need,” Dela Peña announced.
Source: PNA
