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5 Things to Remember for OFWs Spending Holidays in the Philippines

It’s definitely the most wonderful time of the year, especially now that you are allowed to go back home even for a few weeks. We also know how excited you are to spend the holidays with your family. 

Before you get too excited, there are certain things you need to remember as you prepare your trip back home. These are:

1. Make an Itinerary 

You are heading back home, so you need to make plans on where to go, what to do, and things you need to accomplish. If you plan to open an account, update records, or apply for a loan, then make sure include this in your itinerary.. This will give you an idea on how to set your budget and make necessary preparation for possible expenses. 

Why not just go with the flow? Spontaneity is fun, but you give yourself more room for temptation, at least when it comes to spending.

Therefore, make an itinerary. Having one allows you to make the most out of your stay in the country. 

2. Rethink about Balikbayan Boxes

One of the things your family always looks forward to is your pasalubong.You’ve been away for some time and you want to bring home every possible thing you could to share to your family, relatives, and friends. Plus, it is a Filipino tradition to do this and share your blessings to others.

Before you fill those balikbayan boxes, think again. 

To begin with, declaring international goods at Customs could be hassle. If you plan to send it in the Philippines, it will take a month or two before it arrives. 

Instead, bring only a handful of gifts to people who matters. You can still bring pasalubong items like chocolates and food, but place these inside your luggage instead. If you insist on giving something for everyone, shop at Duty Free. This way, you don’t have to worry about baggage allowance since you’re back home. Just make sure you allot a specific budget for that. 

3. AirBnB over Hotel Accommodation 

Let’s say part of your itinerary is to have a staycation with the family. That’s fine. The question is where will you stay? 

Hotel accommodation is tempting, but have you considered AirBnB? 

The good thing about AirBnB is that it offers more affordable staying options for you and your family. You can get an entire house that could accommodate your entire family without paying too much. Plus, you can bring and cook food, thereby helping you save extra instead of eating out. 

If you insist on trying out hotels for convenience, then that’s fine. There are hotels that offer affordable rooms. 

4. Apply for OEC Online 

OEC or Overseas Employment Certificate is among the most important documents you need to secure as proof that you are a legitimate OFW. The good news is returning workers will take easier path. 

Instead of lining up in POEA, you can get an OEC online through Balik Manggagawa Online Processing System or BM Online. If you are staying in the country for five days or less, you can already get your OEC at the Labor Assistance Counter in the airport. 

You can also read more about OEC for Balik Manggagawa here. 

5. Take it Easy on Spending

Yes, you are earning in dollars and you are earning more compared to your old job in the Philippines. Still, this is not an excuse to splurge and give in to everyone’s demands. 

This is why it is important to plan your stay in the Philippines. The itinerary will serve as your guide on how you will spend your vacation here. Also, learn when to say no to people, especially when money is involved. It’s not easy to earn money and surely, they have no idea about the sacrifices you went through just to provide a better future for your family. 

Above all, enjoy and have fun while it lasts. Christmas is that one occasion you want to spend with your family. Make the most out of your stay. 

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Types of Insurance OFWs Should Consider for Their Family

Not many people believe in insurance – and we don’t blame you. The idea of paying premiums every month could be heavy on the pocket, especially when you have other expenses on the table.

Still, there are variety of reasons why you need to get an insurance. For starters, you’ll never know what will happen either to you or any member of the family. Also, savings is not enough to cover sudden expenses (especially if it involves six to seven digits). This is why it is important to start preparing for the uncertain and having an insurance could help you with that.

The question now is what type of insurance should you get for your family? Below are your options:

Life Insurance

This type of insurance pays lumpsum to the surviving family in case of death of the insured person or after a certain period.

There are three types:

  • Term Life Insurance – This provides death benefit payment after a certain period, usually within one to 30 years. It is also the most affordable type of life insurance in the market.  The issue with this is that in case death didn’t happen within the given period, the insured will get nothing.
  • Whole Life Insurance – This offers lifelong coverage plus death benefit and investment. The good thing about this type of policy is that you get to earn dividends, which you can withdraw whenever you need it.
  • Variable Universal Life (VUL) Insurance – This insurance type comes with disability, living, and death benefits as well as insurance component. The difference of VUL with whole life insurance is that you can choose where to invest your money.

Among the insurance types in the market, having a life insurance should be your priority. It offers financial support in case something happens to you plus the investment component could be helpful in growing your money and possibly covering expenses back home.

Health Insurance

This type of insurance reduces, if not cover all costs of healthcare services. This could be emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and preventive services. Healthcare insurance may be used not just by the policyholder but also by the qualified dependents.

Why should you get a health insurance? The answer is simple: healthcare is expensive in the Philippines. Getting an insurance will help you cover medical expenses without depleting your savings account and Emergency Fund (which we assume you have!)

Tip: Ask about including critical illness insurance coverage. This coverage includes serious illnesses like stroke, heart attack, brain injury, Alzheimer’s disease, and cerebral palsy among others. You might have to pay for additional premium, but this could be useful especially if critical illnesses run in the family.

Education Insurance 

Education can be expensive in the Philippines, especially if you want to send your children in the best universities in the country.

If your budget can accommodate it, then get an educational insurance for them. Consider this as a form of investment to ensure your child’s future. This is better than borrowing money when it’s time for your kids to go to college.

Education is something you could leave to your child and it is worth investing.

Home Insurance 

The purpose of insurance is to help you prepare for the inevitable. When you invested in a home, you need to make sure that it is protected against all possible loss or damage like fire, typhoon, or burglary. Your home might be affected of disaster caused by someone in the community, thereby losing everything you invested in that home.

Having a home insurance offers emotional and financial security and peace of mind. Nobody wants to experience disaster but in case it happens, at least you have something to turn to. Plus, it could help you reimburse expenses like medical, rental, and relocation so you don’t have to worry about getting these paid.

Car Insurance

Do you have a car? Then you need to have an insurance to make sure that expenses related to vehicular accident (medical bills and repairs among others) or theft will be covered.

It may be the least of your concern, but having a car insurance could give you peace of mind in case something happens.

Do you really need to get all of these insurance policies? Not really. Nonetheless, it is important to get at least one since this will give you financial security and peace of mind in case something happens.

The key here is to know your needs and find out which one should you prioritize. You can start with life insurance or health insurance since this will come in handy.

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4 Passport Appointment Scams You Need to Avoid

One of the basic requirements of working overseas is passport. In fact, our passport should not be less than six months prior to expiration; otherwise, you will be asked to renew it. Many countries overseas are also strict about this six-months validity rule and won’t issue you Entry Visa or Work Permit if your passport is about to expire in six months.

Here’s the thing: applying for a passport is not that easy. In fact, some would take months before they can even book for an appointment. Because of this and the immediate need to fulfill requirements to be able to work abroad, some Filipinos turn to fixers, hoping to expedite the process and get their passports earlier than usual. Some are even pure scam and meant to extort money from you.

Save yourself from that by knowing these appointment scams you need to avoid:

Scam No. 1: The False Bar Code 

When you schedule an appointment online to either apply or renew a passport, you will notice the bar code on the top right of the application form. This is automatically generated from the DFA system.

Apparently, scammers would go the extra mile by printing false bar code on your application to make it appear that your passport application was submitted and accepted by the DFA system.

Scam No. 2: Applying on the Applicant’s Behalf

This is how it works: you approached a fixer because you need to get your passport pronto. The fixer will apply on your behalf and tell you that you can use the courtesy lane.

Don’t get too excited. Before you can proceed to the submission of your passport application, DFA representatives will check your application form and documents to see if you are qualified for the exemption. If you’re not, then you wasted money for nothing.

Scam No. 3: The Fixer’s Fee

The truth is DFA accepts endorsements from other government agencies as a form of courtesy or by way of accommodation.

Sadly, there are fixers who would go as far as falsifying or giving you fake endorsements from government agencies or officials just so you could process your passport. There are also some who got authentic endorsements from government agencies and sell this to passport applicants.

We understand the urgency of applying and getting your passport, but you don’t need to shell out thousands to be able to get one in an illegal manner.

Scam No. 4: Slot Not Under Your Name

Some fixers apply for a passport and get a reservation slot. Apparently, they won’t be renewing or applying for their own passport, rather said reservation slot will be sold to another person who is in need of a schedule.

The problem with this is that the slot is NOT reserved under your name. This could be problematic since even if you have a slot, the person in the given schedule is different from you and has different details. This will prompt DFA representatives not to allow you to enter and proceed with the passport application.

These forms of scam are frowned upon by the DFA and encouraged Filipinos to go legal. Yes, they admitted that it could take time before you’re able to get a slot but be patient. It is better to wait legitimately than process and get your passport fast but with accompanying dangers like fake passport.

Still, don’t worry. Per DFA website, Overseas Filipino Workers (both land- and sea-based) do not need passport appointment. You may avail of the Courtesy Lane anytime from Monday to Friday, which means no appointment needed. This will make application or renewal easier and more convenient for you.

You just need to bring the following documents or proof of your OFW status such as:

  • Valid iDOLE card
  • Valid employment contract
  • Valid Work Visa
  • Seaman’s book (for sea-based applicants) stamped at international border less than 365 days from date of application

You may also choose between regular or expedite processing, depending on how soon you need it.

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4 Investment Tips to Remember for OFWs

Sometimes, working hard is not enough to be able to secure your family’s future. Life overseas is unstable and there is always a possibility that you might be asked to go home even if your contract is not yet due because of various reasons like political turmoil, civil uprising, or tragedy among others.

In case that happens, are you ready?

This is why time and again, we always emphasize the importance of investing your money. In doing so, you are not only making your money grow but also ensuring everybody’s future because you always have funds to back you up.

The question now is how do you invest?

Here are tips you need to remember to make sure you make the most out of your investment:

1. Knowledge is power. 

For the laymen, investment can be overwhelming and difficult to understand. This could also be the reason why there are many who prefer not to invest because it’s something that they cannot comprehend.

That should not be your mentality. It could be overwhelming at first, but that’s what the Internet is for. Simply type “investment” and you will find tons of articles, podcasts, videos, and blog posts about it. Take your time to go through the information in front of you so you will have better understanding of what your options are and how each of them works.

If self-study is not your style, then you might want to consider attending seminars about investing. In case you have questions, you will easily get answers because someone who knows a lot about investing is in front of you.

2. Know the difference between good and bad investment. 

No pun intended, but scammers are most likely to lure OFWs to invest in their “venture” with a promise of high return of money after a week or one month at most. Since you are interested in growing your money (and hopefully as quick as possible), you decided to sign up.

Be careful. Before you invest your money into something, you need to make sure the legality of such investment deal. There is no such thing as double or triple your money in one week. Yes, you can grow your money, but this will take time, months or years even, before you can reap the benefits.

Be vigilant and stick to banks and other legitimate investment companies in growing your hard-earned money.

3. Send remittances regularly. 

When you invest, there is a higher possibility that your family back home will manage it or process necessary acts on your behalf. This way, you don’t have to worry about it and just focus on your work overseas.

To make sure that your investments are properly maintaining, you should be able to send money regularly for this specific purpose. You can use the money sent for various investment purposes like increasing the amount of your investment or getting another type of investment.

Speaking of remittances, it is important that you send money on safe and legitimate channels. This way, you are sure that the money you sent from overseas will arrive in the Philippines.

4. Go online. 

You are miles away from home and you only rely on your family when it comes to managing your investment. Still, you need to be on top of everything to ensure that your hard-earned money is spent wisely.

Therefore, go online. If the disbursement account is through a specific bank account, make sure you apply for online banking facility so you can easily track your investments. Don’t forget to check it regularly.

Take note that this will not guarantee you a million by the end of the year, but investing your money will help you a lot in making it grow. Don’t be afraid and give investing a try. There are tons of investment options available and it’s just a matter of finding the right track for you.

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Find Out How You Can Claim Your PAG-IBIG Contributions

You are convinced that PAG-IBIG could help you in boosting your savings, which is why you made sure you diligently paid your contributions every month. After years of paying, you felt that you deserve to get your investment back.

The question is how.

Don’t worry. This post will tell you everything you need to know about how to claim your PAG-IBIG contributions.

But first, can you just withdraw your contributions anytime you like? 

The answer is no. In fact, there are conditions that will allow you to withdraw. These conditions include:

1. Maturity

This means you made contributions for at least 20 years or an equivalent of 240 monthly contributions.

In case you are still under the PAG-IBIG Overseas Program (POP), which is different from the present PAG-IBIG savings, you may withdraw your money on the 10th, 15th, or 20th year, depending on what you chose during your registration. Simply present your POP passbook to make a claim.

2. Permanent Departure from the Philippines

In case you plan to leave the country and live abroad permanently, then you may opt to withdraw your contributions even without meeting the 240 monthly contributions requirement.

Still, PAG-IBIG needs proof that you are not coming back and that the country you plan to live in allowed you to stay there. Therefore, you must submit:

  • Notarized Sworn Declaration of Intention to Depart from the Philippines Permanently. You can get a copy of the form here.
  • Photocopy of passport
  • Residence visa, immigrant visa, settlement visa, or any other equivalent documents

3. Retirement

As long as you reach 65 years of age, also known as the compulsory retirement, you may opt to claim your contributions from PAG-IBIG. In case you retire early, say 60 years old, then you can also claim for your contributions as long as you are at least 45 years old. 

You need to submit the following documents to make a claim:

  • NSO-issued birth certificate
  • SSS or GSIS retirement voucher
  • At least two valid IDs with photo, birthdate, and signature
  • Notarized Certificate of Early Retirement for private employees above 45 years of age
  • Order of Retirement, Updated Statement of Service, and Statement of Last Payment for AFP, Philippine Army, and Navy members

4. Separation from Service due to Health Reasons 

PAG-IBIG also allows you to claim your contributions in case you can no longer work due to severe health condition. To claim, you must submit:

  • Statement of Certification from a doctor indicating such condition
  • Notarized sworn employer’s Certification of member’s employment termination due to health reasons
  • Latest SSS Disability voucher in case you are a private employee

5. Permanent Total Disability or Insanity

PAG-IBIG members may also claim contributions in case of physical or mental disability as a result of illness or injury. Said condition must render the claimant unable to work or run a business.

The claimant must submit the following documents:

  • Certification or statement from physician indicating such condition
  • SSS Total Disability Voucher for private employees
  • Updated Statement of Service, Statement of Last Payment, and Compulsory Disability Discharge (CDD) Order for AFP, Philippine Army, and Navy members

6. Death

For deceased PAG-IBIG members, their heirs, authorized representatives, or appointed court administrator or executor may file for a claim. In doing so, the following documents must be submitted:

  • NSO-issued death certificate
  • Notarized Proof of Surviving Legal Heirs (you can get a copy of the form here)
  • In case the deceased member has children, NSO-issued birth certificate/s or baptismal / confirmation certificate for ALL the children
  • In case the deceased member has minor children or children with PWD, submit a notarized Affidavit of Guardianship. You can get a copy of the form here.

PAG-IBIG will need proof of relationship between the deceased member and the person processing the claim (claimant). Therefore, the following documents must be submitted:

  • NSO-issued birth certificate for both the deceased member and claimant
  • Non-availability of Birth Record from NSO and notarized Joint Affidavit of Two Disinterested Persons in case birth certificates cannot be presented.
  • Certified True Copy of the claimant’s and deceased member’s baptismal or confirmation certificate
  • Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) for single members
  • NSO-issued Marriage Certificate and Advisory on Marriage for married members

Basic Requirements Needed to File for a Claim

  • Completely filled out Application for Provident Benefits (APB) Claim form. You can get a copy here.
  • PAG-IBIG Loyalty Card (in the absence of the loyalty card, two valid IDs will do)
  • Original and photocopy of one valid ID of the member
  • Special Power of Attorney (get a copy here) in case the member cannot claim personally

Now that your documents are ready, here’s how you can file and claim for PAG-IBIG contributions:

1. Visit the PAG-IBIG branch where your membership records are found.

2. Submit basic requirements and corresponding documents.

3. Once verified, PAG-IBIG representative will issue Provident Benefits Acknowledgement Receipt. The receipt indicates when you can claim your check.

Take note that you also have the option to have the amount credited to your bank account.

Tips to Remember when Filing a Claim 

  • Make sure you have no unpaid, existing loans with PAG-IBIG such as Housing Loan, Calamity Loan, or Multi-Purpose Loan. Any unpaid loans will affect the status of your claim.
  • Check if you have records in other PAG-IBIG branches. Records in multiple branches could slow down the processing time.
  • Make it a habit to check your contribution payments regularly. This is to ensure that payments were made by YOU and no contributions were withdrawn without your consent. This will avoid issues in the future in case you decide to claim.
  • If you opt to claim the proceeds of your contributions via check payment, then don’t forget to bring two valid IDs to prove identity.
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5 Tips to Maximize Your PAG-IBIG Benefits

Contrary to popular belief, OFW life is not easy. Yes, you earn in dollars and yes, you earn more than what you can earn in the Philippines. Still, you are shouldering tons of responsibilities and you have to endure a lot of sacrifices in exchange of a better life and future for your family.

Does “better life and future for the family” includes savings?

Admit it. No matter how hard you try to save, you always end up using the funds because of “emergencies” back home. Thankfully, PAG-IBIG is there to help you by offering a savings with dividends scheme that will make it difficult for you to withdraw money. After all, you are only allowed to claim your contributions after 20 years. This could be helpful because you know that no matter what happens, you have savings to back you up.

In a previous post, we shared about how to be a PAG-IBIG member, including steps for registration, ways to contribute money even while overseas, and how much you can contribute among others. In this post, we will tell you variety of ways on how you can maximize your contributions so you could claim a higher amount when your 20th year as a member comes.

Here’s what you can do:

Tip 1: PAG-IBIG contribution is equal to part of your assets. 

Mindset plays an important role when it comes to financial security. Therefore, don’t think of your contributions as something you have to do because it’s mandatory, rather make it a part of your assets.

Keep in mind that your savings earn dividends every year, which will be added to your total savings. Also, the agency has Modified PAG-IBIG II (MP2) facility wherein members can opt for additional and voluntary savings option for five years, which could be helpful in growing your money.

This leads to tip number 2.

Tip 2: Apply for the MP2 savings facility. 

Apart from the monthly, mandatory contribution of P100, PAG-IBIG also offered the MP2 program wherein you can contribute P500 per month for five years. The good thing about this facility is that you get to earn higher interest rate compared to what was offered in banks’ savings and time deposit facilities.

In case you want to renew for another five years, then you can do so.

Here comes the best part: this savings scheme is tax-free. This means unlike your regular savings account, your savings in MP2 facility will not be charged with 20 percent withholding tax. How cool is that?

Tip No. 3: Keep your contributions up-to-date. 

PAG-IBIG wants to help every Filipino, including OFWs, to have a secured future. In fact, this is the reason why the agency was established. Nonetheless, all of the benefits won’t be possible if you don’t contribute regularly.

Keep in mind that one of the important requirements in claiming your contributions is that you made 240 monthly contributions. Meeting this requirement is crucial, otherwise, you won’t be allowed to withdraw.

Therefore, make sure that your contributions are updated. PAG-IBIG desks are available in Philippine embassies or consulates where you can deposit directly. There are also PAG-IBIG-accredited banks and remittance agencies where you can remit your contribution.

In other words, there is no excuse for you to skip payments.

Tip No. 4: Increase your contribution. 

Yes, you are mandated to contribute P100 every month, but did you know that you can contribute higher than that?

When you contribute more than P100, this means you earn higher dividends, which will be added to your total savings. In case you plan to apply for a PAG-IBIG loan in the future, there is higher chances of approval because of the higher contributions you made.

Tip No. 5: Contribute in lumpsum. 

Being a PAG-IBIG member allows you to enjoy certain benefits and access to various loan facilities. Before you apply, you need to make contributions for at least two years to become eligible for their loan.

You can skip that process by paying in lumpsum the amount of P2,400, or the monetary value of 24-months contribution, upfront. This way, you can get access to PAG-IBIG facilities.

What are you waiting for? Be a PAG-IBIG member now and remember these tips to enjoy higher benefits.

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PAG-IBIG Membership for Overseas Filipino Workers

On June 11, 1978 and by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 1530, Pagtutulungan sa Kinabukasan: Ikaw, Bangko, Industriya, at Gobyerno or PAG-IBIG Fund was established.

Presently known as Home Development Mutual Fund, the purpose of this government agency is to provide national savings program and affordable shelter financing for Filipino workers with the help of these four sectors.

Back in the day and due to certain events in history, being a PAG-IBIG member was voluntary. In 1994, then President Ramos declared the membership mandatory through Republic Act 7742.

In 2009, then President Arroyo signed into law R.A. 9679 or the Home Development Mutual Fund Law, which made PAG-IBIG membership mandatory for all Filipinos, including those who are overseas Filipino workers like you.

Keep reading to know more about your PAG-IBIG membership, including how to register, how to make payments while overseas, and the benefits you can get from being a member.

On mandatory membership – 

  • Filipino seafarer upon signing of the standard contract of employment between seafarer and manning agency.
  • Filipinos employed by foreign-based employers, whether deployed in the Philippines or overseas, or combination.

On membership registration – 

There are several ways you can register as a PAG-IBIG member. You can submit your Membership Registration Form (MRF) together with valid ID in:

  • In case you’re overseas,  in PAG-IBIG desks located in Philippine Embassy or Consulate
  • Pag-IBIG Fund International Operations Group, 6th Floor, Justine Bldg., Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City
  • Any PAG-IBIG branch nationwide
  • PAG-IBIG satellite office in the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA)
  • Accredited banks and remittance centers like Metrobank, PNB, and iRemit Global Remittances, Inc.

You can also get a copy of the MRF here.

You can also register online through PAG-IBIG website.

On membership contribution –

Filipinos working overseas and whose employer is not subject to mandatory coverage shall contribute two percent of his/her monthly compensation. The Filipino worker may also opt to pay for the employer’s counterpart of two percent.

Take note that the maximum monthly compensation to be used in computing membership savings shall not be more than P5,000.00

As of this writing, the standard contribution is at P100. You may opt for higher contribution so you could get higher savings.

On duration of PAG-IBIG membership – 

Membership shall be maximum of 20 years with total of 240 monthly membership savings or upon the occurrence of any of the following:

  • Retirement
  • Permanent Total Disability or Insanity
  • Termination of service due to health reasons
  • Permanent departure from the country
  • Death
  • Other reasons provided for by the Board of Trustees

You also have the option to withdraw after 15 years of contribution, provided  at least 180 monthly membership contributions were made and there is no existing PAG-IBIG loan.

On paying for monthly contribution – 

The good news is you can pay your monthly contribution anywhere you are. PAG-IBIG has representatives based in the Philippine Embassy or Consulate where you can pay to them directly. There are also PAG-IBIG-accredited banks and remittance partners where you can pay your contributions.

You can check this link for a complete list of accredited banks and remittance partners of PAG-IBIG around the world.

Take note that when paying for your monthly contribution, prepare your PAG-IBIG membership ID number (PAG-IBIG MID) since this will be used to track the payments you made. In case you don’t have PAG-IBIG MID yet, you can now register so you will be given Registration Tracking Number (RTN) in the meantime.

On benefits of being a PAG-IBIG member – 

  • Tax-free savings, guaranteed by the government.
  • Savings are earning yearly dividends, which will be added to your savings.
  • Access to short-term loans like Multi-Purpose Loan and Calamity Loan, which you can use to, say, pay your child’s tuition fee, minor repairs at home, or starting capital for your business.
  • Access to Housing Loan wherein the funds can be used to buy your dream house, home renovation and improvement, or refinance existing housing loan from other lending institutions.

What are you waiting for? Become a PAG-IBIG member now to not only enjoy the benefits mentioned but also to earn higher savings.

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Philhealth Membership for Overseas Filipino Workers

Being an Overseas Filipino Worker is not easy. You need to make sure that you will be able to provide a better and secure future for your family. At the same time, you need to ensure that your family is well taken cared of and that their everyday needs are met.

What about you? Who could take care of you in case you get sick?

Your employer overseas may provide you with health benefits but you are limited there. Once you go back to the Philippines, you are no longer part of the employer’s responsibility.

This is where Philhealth comes in. In fact, the agency can be your “Partner in Health” in case of medical emergencies.

How do you become a member? How can you make contributions? What are the benefits of being a member of Philhealth even if you are working overseas?

Read on to find out.

Who are Overseas Filipino members? 

1. Land-based Overseas Filipino workers

2. Seafarers or individuals employed or engaged in any capacity onboard a seagoing ship that is navigating foreign seas other than a government ship used for military or non-commercial purposes.

3. Filipinos with dual citizenship

What are the advantages of being a Philhealth member? 

1. Philhealth can pay for OFW or his/her dependents’ hospital confinement and out-patient surgeries in the Philippines through the All Case Rate payment scheme.

2. Reimbursement of fees upon the overseas worker’s confinement overseas. The OFW is given 180 days upon discharge to submit claim documents to any Philhealth offices in the Philippines.

3. Overseas worker’s benefits can be extended to his/her qualified dependents.

4. OFWs are entitled to Lifetime membership, provided that they reach their age of retirement and have paid at least 120 monthly contributions.

5. Easier availment of benefits in case of confinement since most of the accredited healthcare institutions are connected to the Health Care Institution Portal.

6. Coverage of more than 4,000 medical and surgical procedures, including cancer and dialysis procedures.

What are the benefits of Overseas Filipino Workers? 

Aside from Philippine healthcare institutions, you can still avail of Philhealth benefits even if you were confined overseas. Consequently, your qualified dependents could enjoy the same benefits you are entitled to.

Nonetheless, below are the specific benefits afforded to OFWs:

Inpatient Benefits 

This is available to all confinements in accredited Health Care Institutions (HCIs) through All Case Rate. The case rate includes hospital charges and physician’s professional fees, the total of which will be deducted from the total bill.

To avail of Inpatient benefits, OFW-member must have six months contribution preceding the three months qualifying contribution within the 12-month period before the first day of confinement. Submit a copy of Member Data Record and duly accomplished Philhealth Claim Form 1.

You can get a copy of the form here.

Outpatient Benefits 

This includes day surgeries that could include minor to major surgeries, radiotherapy, hemodialysis, outpatient blood transfusion, and primary care benefits.

Primary care benefits include preventive services, diagnostic examinations recommended by the doctor, and drugs and medication.

Z Benefits

This coverage includes medical conditions such as leukemia, prostate cancer, breast cancer, renal disease, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, tetralogy of fallot in children, ventricular septal defect in children, cervical cancer, prosthesis help and rehabilitation, orthopedic implants, colon and rectum cancer, and children with developmental disabilities.

SDG Related 

This coverage includes voluntary surgical contraception procedure, malaria packages, HIV-AIDS package, anti-tuberculosis treatment, and animal bite treatment package.

Check out this link for a complete list of Philhealth benefits for OFWs as well the corresponding requirements when making a claim.

To avail of any of the benefits, make sure that:

1. Availment period falls within the validity period of the OFW-member’s coverage.

2. You have not yet consumed the 45-day annual benefit limit for hospital room and board allowance.

3. The healthcare institution and the health care professional are accredited by the Philhealth.

What if you want to claim while you are overseas? 

The following documents must be sent to any Philhealth office (main or regional office) or Local Health Insurance Office nearest your Philippine address within 180 days from the date of discharge:

1. Medical abstract or record written in English OR medical certificate stating the final diagnosis, number of days of confinement, and medical services conducted.

2. If an operation was performed, a copy of the operative record written in English.

3. Statement of account

4. Official receipt issued by the hospital or doctor

5. Completely filled out Phillealth Claim Form 1.

How to Register for Philhealth membership:

If you are in the Philippines, visit the nearest Philhealth office, Local Health Insurance office, Philhealth Business Center, or Philhealth Express, whichever is nearest to you. Fill out the Member Registration Form (you can get a copy here) and submit it.

If you are overseas and a landbased OFW, visit any branch of iRemit and Ventaja Corporation. Access the Electronic Registration facility, and follow the procedure. Aldo, download the membership registration form, fill it out, and email the form at ofp@philhealth.gov.ph

If you are a seafarer, submit a completely filled out membership registration form to the Human Resource department of your manning agency. Your manning agency will process your application and give you permanent Philhealth Identification Number (PIN).

How much should I contribute? 

The annual contribution rate is P2,400.00, which can be paid in advance for two to five years OR depending on the duration of the employment contract with the overseas employer.

Click here for premium contribution schedule.

Where can I make contributions? 

You can pay for your contributions through any of the Philhealth-accredited collecting agents in the Philippines and overseas. POEA also has Philhealth counter where you can pay premiums.

You can also check out this link for a list of tie-ups overseas.

What are you waiting for? Make sure you are a member of Philhealth to avail of these benefits. You’ll never know what could happen so it is best to know that there is someone you can lean on.

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7 Money Tips to Remember During the Christmas Season

It’s almost Christmas. Are you counting the days already? Surely you do, especially if you’re coming home for the holidays. Aside from the balikbayan boxes filled with tons of pasalubong for your loved ones, there are tons of reunions and parties you have to attend to because hey, people missed you. Plus, this is a perfect opportunity to go shopping. You feel that goods are cheaper here in the Philippines and you wouldn’t even notice since you are earning in dollars.

Indeed, going home this Christmas season is a grand celebration. Sadly, it’s an expensive one. Worse, you will realize how much you’ve lost once you head back to the country where you are working.

Does it really have to be that way? Of course not. Yes, you missed your family but there are certain things you need to remember to ensure that you won’t compromise your financial future just for the sake of having Pasko sa Pilipinas. This includes:

1. Set a Christmas budget before going back home. 

This is the first thing you need to do before you head home. Having a budget is necessary to guide you on your spending and avoid unnecessary expenses. You need to set a limit on your spending because you might be surprised to find out that there’s no job waiting for you.

What you can do is to allocate money for Christmas shopping, dining out, presents, etc. Set aside a portion for last-minute emergencies because you’ll never know what could happen while you’re back home.

2. Buy presents that increase in value. 

Sure, your kids will appreciate a new iPad or gaming console, but is it worth spending? The problem with giving material things is that they don’t appreciate in value. By the following year, a new model will be released, which improves the older version. Selling it won’t help because by the time you decide to sell the gadget, the value is way lower than what you hoped for.

What can you do? Give your family something that they will like and something to open this Christmas BUT make sure it is affordable. Also, use your money to buy your kids’ educational fund or invest in stocks or mutual funds. This allows your money to grow more instead of spending it on something that doesn’t appreciate in value.

Surely your family may not appreciate it now, but they sure will once they get older.

3. Limit your gift-giving. 

You’re not running for public office, so don’t feel pressured to give everyone something. Yes, it’s the season if giving, but do you have to share everything you have to the entire barangay? 

The answer is no – and it’s okay.

The point is limit your gift-giving to immediate family members and people who truly matters to you. This will help you save more money.

4. Once Christmas celebration is enough. 

So your former colleagues at work found out that you’re in the Philippines and they wanted to ask you out. Your college buddies also wanted to see you and asked you to meet them for dinner and drinks after. Your family wants to eat out.

The question now is do you really need to say yes to all the invites just so people will see you? The answer is no.

One of the ways to cut your spending while you’re home for the holidays is by scheduling just ONE (read: ONE) Christmas party. Schedule a party, preferably weekend, and invite people to come over. You can spend on food, but don’t hesitate to ask people to bring some of their specialties over. This way, you get to meet everyone while minimizing your spending.

5. Do not boast. 

One of the common misconceptions surrounding OFWs is that they are rich and money comes easy. Some do experience a leap, but there are still many others who are doing what they can to make ends meet. Yet, there are OFWs who act like they are living a life by showing off material things they own.

Don’t be one of them. Show the people that you are living a simple lifestyle instead of trying to make yourself look “bigtime.” You don’t need people to see that you have a new phone and your kids have up-to-date gadgets. People will less likely borrow money from you if they see that you are living a frugal life.

6. You’re not an ATM. 

It is part of Filipino culture to give something. Since you’re back home, this could be an opportunity for people to ask if they could borrow money from you.

No matter how close you are, the answer is no. You’re not an ATM machine and you have your own needs too. Don’t give in to their demands because you shouldn’t be the one they’re running to in case they are having financial issue. Learn how to say no and be firm about it.

7. Update and manage your accounts. 

Now that you’re back home, take this opportunity to check and manage your accounts. See how much money you have and don’t forget to enroll in an online facility so you can easily see and be updated with your account. If you plan to get an investment account or insurance policy, then use this opportunity as well.

It’s more complicated if you ask someone to do this on your behalf (through SPA, of course), so make sure you make the most out of your stay.

Are you ready to go back home?

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Find Out Where Balikbayad Added Two More Branches

Are you an OFW who is currently in need of funds to put up your business? Do you need additional working capital for your inventory needs? Don’t worry. Balikbayad is here to help.

Balikbayad was launched with one thing in mind: YOU. 

Banks could provide you a lending hand in case you need to borrow money for your business. Apparently, this could mean sending tons of documents to prove your earning capacity and potential to pay the loan. We want to make this easier for you by providing you with options sans the hassle of coming up with a lot of documents.

Because of that need, we are happy to announce that aside from the Adriatico office, Balikbayad launched two more branches to better equip your growing needs and demands in the business.

Below are the addresses and contact details of our two more branches:

Makati Balikbayad - Makati5/F Salustiana T. Dy Tower, Paseo de Roxas Legaspi Village, Makati City (near Greenbelt 1).

You can contact us at 0977-7796594 or 0949-5777040. 

Kalaw 9/F TM Kalaw Center, 667 TM Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila

You can also contact us at 0977-7796594 or 0949-5777040. 

To our OFW friends in Cebu and nearby provinces in Visayas region, our Cebu branch is still ready to serve you. Don’t hesitate to call or visit in case you of your financial needs.

Keep in mind that Balikbayad wants to see every OFW succeed in life. We are here and more than ready to provide you and help you with your financial needs. We’ll be waiting for you.