ILOILO CITY- The Balik Manggagawa (BM) Online Processing System will be fully implemented by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) nationwide, starting October 1.
BM online processing system is a web-based facility that enables returning or vacationing OFWs to apply online for Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) and have the approved OEC printed anywhere, anytime.
POEA Iloilo Officer-in-Charge Rhea Glynda Calantas said the online processing system will make OEC application for returning or vacationing OFWs more convenient.
“The system is part of the efforts of the agency to hasten the issuance of the OEC and eliminate the long lines that our returning or vacationing OFWs have to bear in the POEA offices and processing centers when they apply for their OECs especially during the peak months,” said Calantas.
She said instead waiting for the long queue, workers especially those who have limited stay in the country will have more time to be with their families or loved ones.
Those vacationing OFWs who will return to their same employer and jobsite, with employment visa/work permit, have a record in the POEA database, and previously issued OEC/E-receipt with the same employer may avail of the online processing system.
The system has also an appointment page, a built-in feature that caters to those who cannot proceed to the straight online processing of OEC for any of the following reasons: No POEA record/No record found/discrepancy in any record; Undocumented worker; change employer and/or jobsite; Worker or employer is under watchlist; OFW is returning to restricted country; and OFW is a former sea-based worker.
Through the appointment system, applicants can avail of the appointment service for regular processing of their OECs on their preferred processing site and appointment date and time.
OEC or exit clearance is a travel document presented by OFWs at the airport and immigration counters. It also ensures that OFWs are properly documented and protected.
Calantas said OFWs can sign up for the BM online processing system at the POEA official webpage www.poea.gov.ph or to the direct link http://bmonline.poea.gov.ph. The opening page of the system contains an instructional video that will guide the returning OFW in using the facility./JCM/LAF/PIA6-Iloilo)
