KUALA LUMPUR - In support of the national government’s efforts to promote safe and well-prepared overseas employment, the Philippines’ Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)-Regional Welfare Office 1 conducted a Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) on January 22 for 46 agriculture interns from Ilocos Sur scheduled for deployment to Japan.

The full-day seminar aimed to equip first-time deployees with essential knowledge and practical guidance to adapt to Japan’s work environment while safeguarding their rights and welfare abroad, according to Philippine Information Agency.

The interns, deployed through a local recruitment agency, were assisted by OWWA as part of its bridging support services for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), particularly those entering overseas employment for the first time.

Topics covered during the PDOS included employment contract familiarisation, Japanese culture and workplace practices, health and safety, airport and travel procedures, and the various stages of an OFW’s life overseas.

Participants were also briefed on government programmes and services designed to protect and support Filipino workers abroad, while the Department of Labor and Employment provided additional input on occupational safety and health.

OWWA Ilocos Officer-in-Charge Marivic Mondina highlighted the significance of pre-departure preparation, particularly for young workers joining overseas internship programmes.

“The PDOS ensures that our interns are informed, confident, and equipped with the knowledge they need to adjust to their host country and protect their rights and welfare,” Mondina said, adding that OWWA continues to strengthen support services for first-time OFWs.

OWWA also emphasised that the PDOS is provided free of charge and includes immediate issuance of certificates, enabling participants to complete deployment requirements without delay.

PDOS focal person Rubylyn Munar noted that the programme is open to agency hires, name hires, direct hires, and government hires.

“Just reach out to us, and we are ready to equip departing workers with knowledge they can use before, during, and even after migration,” Munar said.

Prospective participants may coordinate with OWWA through its PDOS focal person at 0927-620-7300 or visit the office on the second and third floors of the Kenny Plaza Building along Quezon Avenue, San Fernando City, La Union. PDOS sessions are held every Tuesday.

Through initiatives such as the PDOS, OWWA reaffirms the government’s commitment to ensuring Filipino workers are adequately prepared, protected, and empowered as they pursue overseas employment opportunities, including in key partner countries such as Japan.