Philippine Embassy Expands Support for OFWs in Bahrain

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The Philippine Embassy in Bahrain, in partnership with the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the Filipino Club, the Philippine Teachers Association Bahrain (PTAB), and Medici Global Professional Development & Consultancy WLL, organized a full day of programs aimed at supporting and empowering Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the Kingdom. Through the monthly Lingkod Kababayan Friday initiative, Filipino workers were provided with convenient one-stop access to essential government services, including consular assistance, Overseas Voting registration, Social Security System (SSS) services, Pag-IBIG Fund support, Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN), employment contract verification, labor-related services, and OWWA membership renewal. The initiative reaffirmed the Philippine government's commitment to bringing vital public services closer to its citizens working abroad.

In addition to government services, more than 50 OFWs participated in an IELTS Orientation Program at Crowne Plaza Bahrain, where education experts provided practical guidance, listening exercises, and examination strategies to help participants improve their English proficiency and prepare for internationally recognized language certification.

Later, 20 OFWs began a two-week Barista Skills Training in Gudaibiya, gaining hands-on experience in coffee preparation, espresso techniques, and café operations to enhance their employability and future livelihood opportunities. Addressing the participants, Philippine Ambassador Gines Jaime Ricardo D.

Gallaga emphasized that investing in new skills creates greater opportunities for career growth, while OWWA Welfare Officer Juvilyn Gumabay reaffirmed the agency's commitment to continuing skills development programs despite regional challenges.

The day's activities reflected the Philippine government's holistic approach to migrant worker welfare by combining accessible public services, professional development, and practical livelihood training, ensuring that Filipino workers in Bahrain remain resilient, competitive, and well-equipped for future opportunities.