How to get iDOLE - OFW ID for Overseas Filipino Workers

OFW ID Sample: Photo credits: DOLE

Baguio City - Today, July 12 is the official launch of the iDOLE or OFW ID for overseas Filipino workers that aim to replace the controversial Overseas Employment Certificate, the Department of Labor announced.

Labor Secretary Silverstre Bello III said that the new OFW ID will enhance the delivery of government services and programs for OFWs.

"Under this program, all bonafide OFWs will be given iDOLE, the ID of the Department of Labor and Employment at no cost to the OFWs. This will serve as the OEC of the OFWs," Bello said.

All OFWs will be given an OFW ID card for free and this can be applied by going to POEA's website to fill in necessary information.

According to Bello, the ID card can also be used as a debit card and an ATM card for the OFW Bank as well as a beep card for LRT and MRT.

He also said they are also working on the possibility of the card to serve as the electronic passport of OFWs, which they can use anytime, whether going abroad or going back to the Philippines.

Another good feature of the said card is the potential to used by the holder to avail of the services and programs of the government such as the SSS, Philhealth and Pag-Ibig.

HOW TO APPLY FOR OFW ID CARD

For individuals who are scheduled to be deployed overseas and for those OFWs who are are currently in the Philippines for vacation, you can visit any of the Department of Labor and Employment offices near you and inquire about the new OFW ID. Please click this link to know DOLE offices around the country.

The main office of DOLE in the capital region is located at DOLE-NCR Building, 967 Maligaya Street, Malate, Manila.

If you are from Cordillera region, you can personally visit DOLE office at Cabinet Hill Baguio City.

NOTE: Please bring with you relevant personal identification cards, passport, certificates, working permits and contract. For returning OFWs, don't forget to bring copy of your OEC.

Since this is a new concept, there are none yet in record any official guidelines issued by the department about the processing of the new ID and the least thing OFWs can do is to visit their offices.

There's a plan that soon OFWs can apply for the ID directly online or any representative from their family can apply for them.

If approve, the ID will be processed and delivered it to their home address by mail.

source: Philippine Information Agency