In a social media post, the DMW bared that additional personnel have been tasked to help in OEC processing in its head office.
“In line with (DMW) Secretary (Susan) Ople’s order to deploy additional personnel to assist OFWs at the Balik Manggagawa Processing Division, ICT has set up kiosks for OEC printing & technical assistance,” said the DMW.
“Moving forward, more equipment and personnel will be added to further ease OEC processing,” it furthered.
In a separate interview, DMW Spokesperson Toby Nebrida said additional personnel is necessary considering the throngs of OFWs processing their OECs.
“The holidays is a peak period for OEC requests and processing so we added additional personnel to support the regular staff,” said Nebrida.
He said they also adopted changes in the set-up of the OEC sections in a bid to hasten the processing.
“We separated sections for printing of OECs, confirmation or correction or verification of information. We also have roving personnel in the area. There is also rotation and shifting of personnel to provide breathing period for those on duty,” said Nebrida.
To note, an OEC is a document required for all departing OFWs as it shall serve as their exit clearance and as exemption from payment of travel tax and airport terminal fee.
For returning OFWs, they have the option to secure their OECs either at the Migrant Workers Office (formerly Philippine Overseas Labor Office) before leaving the worksite country, or at the DMW before departure. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)