The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Madrid, Spain, serves as a comprehensive support center for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) living and working in the region. It provides essential services, such as legal aid, counseling, dispute resolution, financial assistance, and repatriation services, to ensure that Filipino workers in Madrid are protected and supported in their endeavors.
The MWO (previously known as POLO) in Spain has been renamed due to the creation of the Department of Migrant Workers in the Philippines. This change aims to provide better assistance to Filipinos working abroad, including those in Spain. It reflects the government’s commitment to fully support its citizens who work overseas.
Filipinos in Spain
Spain is home to a vibrant and growing Filipino community, with an estimated population of over 170,000 Filipinos residing across the country. The majority of the Filipino population in Spain is concentrated in major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Bilbao. They are known for their strong work ethic, adaptability, and close-knit community ties, making significant contributions to the cultural, social, and economic fabric of Spanish society.
The Pinoy community in this country is diverse, consisting of professionals, skilled workers, and students, among others. Many Filipinos work in various sectors, including healthcare, hospitality, education, and domestic services. In recent years, there has also been a growing number of Filipino entrepreneurs, business owners, and artists contributing to Spain’s economy and cultural scene.
The Philippine Embassy, along with its Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Madrid, plays a crucial role in providing assistance and support to Pinoys living in Spain. These institutions offer various services, including legal aid, counseling, dispute resolution, financial assistance, and repatriation services, to ensure that their rights and well-being are protected.
Overall, the Filipino community is a dynamic and integral part of the country’s multicultural landscape. Their hard work, resilience, and a strong sense of community have enriched Spanish society while maintaining a deep connection to their Philippine roots. As the Filipino population in Spain continues to grow, so does the positive impact they have on both their host country and their home country.
Services Offered by MWO Madrid
There are a variety of services offered by the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Madrid, Spain. These include:
OEC Overseas Employment Certificate Issuance
The MWO Madrid provides Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs) to Filipino workers who intend to work in Spain. This certificate serves as an official document that verifies the worker’s legal status and exempts them from paying airport tax, among other privileges.
OWWA Membership Application
The office also helps OFWs apply for membership in the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) insurance agency. Being an OWWA Member allows them to receive benefits, such as accident insurance, life insurance, and emergency repatriation assistance.
Individual Contract Verification
The MWO Madrid also provides contract verification services to ensure that the terms and conditions of a prospective employee’s job in Spain conform to Philippine labor laws. This includes checking for compliance with the minimum wage, overtime compensation, holiday pay, and other important benefits.
Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar
The office conducts regular Pre-Employment Orientation Seminars (PEOS) for workers who intend to work abroad. These seminars provide valuable information about the local labor market, as well as safety tips and advice on how to handle their finances while living abroad.
Legal Assistance
MWO offers legal aid to OFWs who require help in resolving issues related to their employment, contracts, or other legal concerns. The office collaborates with local lawyers and legal experts to provide guidance on Spanish labor laws and regulations.
Counseling and Dispute Resolution
The MWO provides counseling services for OFWs facing challenges in their work or personal lives. Additionally, the office facilitates dispute-resolution processes between workers and their employers to ensure that conflicts are resolved amicably and in compliance with Spanish laws.
Financial Assistance
MWO Madrid offers financial aid programs to eligible OFWs who are in need of monetary support due to unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies, repatriation, or other crises. This is throught the partner insurance agency called OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Association).
Repatriation Services
For OFWs who require assistance in returning to the Philippines, MWO Madrid coordinates repatriation services, including arrangement of travel documents, transportation, and other necessary support.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
While all OFWs can access MWO’s services, some services may require specific eligibility criteria. OFWs can apply for these services by visiting the office in person, registering online, or calling the hotline.
Benefits of Using MWO Madrid Services
OFWs who avail themselves of MWO Madrid’s services gain access to a wide range of benefits, including legal, medical, and financial support, as well as repatriation services when needed. By providing these essential services, MWO helps Filipinos live and work with dignity overseas.
Strengthening Ties between the Philippines and Spain
The Migrant Workers Office in Madrid plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and well-being of OFWs in Spain. By working closely with various government agencies, employers, and unions, MWO helps maintain proper employment standards in line with Spanish law. This collaborative approach not only supports Filipino workers but also strengthens the bond between the Philippines and Spain.
Video: How to Get to MWO Madrid for OWWA Membership Application
Here’s a video guide on how to get to the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Madrid, Spain for Overseas Worker Welfare Administration (OWWA) membership application.
The video covers everything you need to know about how to get and apply for OWWA membership at MWO Madrid:
– How to find the right location and office of MWO
– What documents are required for OWWA Membership Application
– How to fill out forms correctly and submit them
– How long does it take before the OWWA Membership Card is issued
– What other services does MWO provide apart from registration process assistance
Summary
Conclusion
The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Madrid, Spain, is an invaluable resource for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) residing in the region. By offering a comprehensive range of support services, MWO ensures that Filipino workers in Madrid are well-protected, supported, and able to live and work with dignity.
This commitment to the welfare of its citizens demonstrates the government’s dedication to reinforcing ties between the Philippines and Spain, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.
Contact Information
MWO Madrid Office
Address: Calle Serrano 161, Planta Baja, 28002, Madrid, Spain
Telephone Number: +34 915 77 67 55
Email: mwo_madrid@dmw.gov.ph
Website: https://www.philembassymadrid.com/labor-services-2
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/mwomadrid/
Google Map Location
Please see the map location of the MWO office in Madrid: