The Philippine government has rolled out a digital alternative to the Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) known as the 'OFW Pass,' which is now mandatory for all Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) when leaving the country.
'This way, the process is made easier and proper monitoring of departing OFWs is maintained,' the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said.
OFWs can obtain the digital pass through the eGovPH app, available on iOS and Android devices. After registering personal information in the app, users can navigate to the National Government Agency (NGA) section, select DMW, and generate the OFW Pass under the Balik Manggagawa program.
The pass includes a QR code, which travelers must show to authorities at the airport when leaving the country. The OFW Pass is valid for 90 days and can be renewed or voided at any time.
'The OFW Pass is not a new requirement. It is part of the current digital departure process being implemented by the Bureau of Immigration,' the DMW said.
Its color-coded status helps users and authorities monitor validity:
- Gray: Not yet generated / Voided
- Green: Active
- Blue: Used
- Amber: Expiring
- Red: Expired
