On June 24, 2021, two groups of OFWs and their dependents in Initao, Misamis Oriental received their livelihood assistance from OWWA under its Tulong PUSO Program. Both were registered under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

The first to receive P200,000.00 representing 40% or first tranche of their livelihood grant amounting to P500,000.00 was the Initao Overseas Workers and Dependents Association (IOWDA).

A separate turnover of check for P50,000.00 representing 1st tranche followed in Purok 14, Poblacion, Initao to officers and member sof Migrant Workers and Dependents Association (MOWDA) which was approved for P250,000.00 livelihood grant. The financial assistance will be released to MOWDA in three tranches since they are just starting up their project. The first tranche is 20% of amount of grant (P50,000.00), the 2nd tranche will be 50% (P125,000.00) while the 3rd tranche will be 30% (P75,000.00).

The proponents were required to put up a 20% equity participation prior to approval of the proposal. The subsequent releases after the 1st tranche are subject to the submission of proof of purchase of goods, acquisition of a Tax Identification Number (TIN), and opening of a bank account in the name of the association.

The turn-over of the financial assistance to these groups was witnessed by Mayor Enerito Acain V of Initao Municipality and PESO Staff Mary Jean Tenedero. OWWA Region X was represented by Director Petrona Bergado and Richie James Uy, focal person on Reintegration Program.

Both OFW group beneficiaries have been in existence for years and have actively supported OWWA in its community development thrusts. It is the first time for both groups to receive a financial assistance. Most members state that the COVID-19 pandemic also hit them and their families hard. The livelihood ventures could help them cope with the crisis by keeping them busy and at the same time augment their family income.

Tulong-Puso is a one-time grant of OWWA to OFW organizations who intend to pursue a business with viable project proposal. This also prioritizes returning OFWs who went back to home country due to pandemic.