Kabayan: Don’t wait — register early for a smooth-sailing OEC
Benefits of OEC: Prior registration crucial to issuance of certificate post-verification
The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Dubai and the Northern Emirates is giving a friendly nudge to all overseas Filipino workers (OFWs): Register early on the DMW E-Registration Portal and get ahead of the game.
Why the rush?
Because an early start means your Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) gets processed without the stress, hassle, or last-minute panic.
It's your golden ticket back to work abroad — don’t let delays ruin your travel plans.
Advisory
In Advisory No. 14, Series of 2025, the MWO emphasised that OFWs should complete their online registration at https://portal.dmw.gov.ph even before their employment contracts are verified.
“This step is essential to facilitate the issuance of your OEC after contract verification — whether the verification is done onsite manually at MWO-Dubai or through online processing,” the advisory stated.
OEC: What is it?
The OEC — also known as "exit clearance" or "pass" — is a crucial document required by the Philippine government for all OFWs leaving the country for employment.
It serves as proof of legal employment abroad and is a mandatory requirement for exiting the Philippines for work purposes.
It certifies the regularity of recruitment and documentation, and is a proof of his|her being a bona-fide OFW.
Without it, a departing OFW will by barred by immigration authorities at Philippine airports.
Key reminders from MWO-Dubai:
Use your existing account: OFWs with an active E-Registration account at https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph must log in using their current credentials and must not create a new account, as duplicate registrations can lead to delays in OEC processing.
Register even before contract verification: Even if an employment contract is not yet verified, OFWs are advised to register in advance to obtain their E-Registration Number.
This step is necessary as it significantly speeds up the issuance of the OEC once all documents are approved.
Why register early
The MWO said early registration is part of efforts to improve the overall efficiency and reduce processing time, especially for OFWs planning to go on vacation and return to their jobs overseas.
OFWs are encouraged to complete their e-registration as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues during peak travel seasons.
OEC benefits:
Travel-related privileges
Exemption from Airport Terminal Fees: OFWs with a valid OEC are not required to pay terminal fees when departing from Philippine airports.
Exemption from Travel Tax: OEC holders are exempted from paying the Philippine travel tax (currently ₱1,620 for economy class).
Priority lanes at airports: International airports in the Philippines, provide priority lanes for OFWs during departure and arrival.
Legal and Employment Protection
Proof of legal employment: The OEC is recognised as an official document confirming that an OFW is properly documented and legally employed abroad.
Access to government assistance abroad: OEC holders can receive help from embassies, consulates, and Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO) in case of labour disputes, emergencies, or repatriation.
Government Benefits and Services
Eligibility for OWWA Membership Benefits: With an OEC, OFWs can renew or maintain their membership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), giving them access to:
Insurance and health benefits
Education and livelihood programs
Repatriation and reintegration support
Access to DMW and DOLE Services
OEC holders can participate in skills training, job matching, and reintegration programs offered by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
Banking and investment perks
Eligibility for OFW-focused loan or investment schemes
Many banks and government institutions (like SSS, Pag-IBIG, and Landbank) offer special financial programmes, low-interest loans, and investment products exclusively for OFWs with valid documentation like the OEC.
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