THE GOVERNMENT encouraged returning overseas Filipino workers  to tap the agri-business programs and services it rolled out to provide livelihood for those who lost their jobs abroad.

Dubbed as “Agri-Negosyo Para sa OFWs,” the program is a one-stop-shop of information for OFWs that introduces agri-business; provide investment opportunities; assist in crafting business plans and studies; facilitate access to financing programs, trainings, available technology; and build network linkages.

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director General Isidro Lapeña urged OFWs to enroll in TESDA’s agriculture courses and other government programs.

He said that the program will not just give opportunities to OFWs displaced by the Covid19 pandemic but will also address the country’s food security concerns.

“There are a lot of opportunities in agriculture. You can also establish your own mini-organic farms. This can be a good source of steady supply of food for your families,” he said.

“This can also be extended to the communities and from which it becomes a new source of income,” Lapeña added.

In November 2020, TESDA, the Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Science and Technology and the National Economic Development Authority signed a joint memorandum circular to implement integrated programs and services in agri-business.

Lapeña shared the milestones of TESDA Abot Lahat ang OFWs which provides accessible scholarship registration, skills assessment and certification through the TESDA Mobile App and the TESDA Website. From March to December 2020, more than 1.2 million individuals have registered to TESDA Online Program, of which around 100,000 were OFWs or their dependents.

TOP is an open educational resource that aims to make technical vocational education and training more accessible to Filipinos and widen their chances of employment or sources of livelihood.