The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Taipei, Taiwan, 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 Taipei are protected and supported in their endeavors.
Note: Migrant Workers Office in Taiwan is managed by the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO). So please be advised that you should visit the MECO office.
The Migrant Workers Office (formerly called POLO) in Taipei has been renamed because of the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers in the Philippines. The purpose of this rebranding is to provide improved support to Filipino citizens employed overseas, including those in Taiwan. It shows that the government is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of its citizens who work abroad.
Filipinos in Taiwan
There are an estimated 160,000 Filipino workers living and working in Taiwan. The majority of them are employed in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, hospitality, and domestic work. Despite the government’s efforts to protect migrant workers rights and improve their quality of life, they often face numerous challenges such as discrimination, low wages, and long hours of work without overtime pay or holidays off.
Services Offered by MWO Taipei
In order to help the OFWs resolve their issues effectively and efficiently, the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) provides a wide range of services from legal aid to financial assistance. In addition to this support system for OFWs in Taiwan, it also seeks to foster better relations with employers through dispute resolution programs that seek to ensure fair working conditions. Here are some of the services available.
OEC Overseas Employment Certificate Issuance
The MWO Taipei provides Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs) to Filipino workers who intend to work in Taiwan. 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. This allows them to receive benefits, such as accident insurance, life insurance, and emergency repatriation assistance.
Individual Contract Verification
The MWO Taipei also provides contract verification services to ensure that the terms and conditions of a prospective employee’s job in Taiwan 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 Taiwanese 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 Taiwanese laws.
Financial Assistance
MWO Taipei 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.
Repatriation Services
For OFWs who require assistance in returning to the Philippines, MWO Taipei 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 Taipei Services
OFWs who avail themselves of MWO Taipei’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 Taiwan
The Migrant Workers Office in Taipei plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights and well-being of OFWs in Taiwan. By working closely with various government agencies, employers, and unions, MWO helps maintain proper employment standards in line with Taiwanese law. This collaborative approach not only supports Filipino workers but also strengthens the bond between the Philippines and Taiwan.
Video: How to Get to MECO MWO Taipei via MRT
This video details how to get to the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Taipei on the MRT. It provides step-by-step instructions on how to reach the office, including directions and walking paths as well as helpful tips along the way. It also offers useful advice on what to expect when you arrive at MWO Taipei and suggests alternative options for transportation if needed. With this information, Filipino workers can plan their visit in advance and avoid any unnecessary delays or complications.
So just to recap, the Migrant Workers Office in Taipei provides a variety of services to help overseas Filipino workers. These include:
- Legal aid – Assistance for OFWs with legal issues, such as labor disputes and contract violations.
- Financial assistance – Access to loans, grants, and other forms of financial support for OFWs.
- Repatriation services – Help with the process of returning to the Philippines after working abroad.
- Counseling – Free professional counseling sessions on various topics related to migrant work.
- Dispute resolution – Mediation services to settle conflicts between employers and employees.
- Education and skills training programs – Opportunities for OFWs to develop their skills and increase their employability.
- Support groups – A platform for OFWs to seek support from other Filipino workers in Taiwan.
Conclusion
The Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Taipei, Taiwan, 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 Taipei 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 Taiwan, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.
Contact Information
MWO Taipei MECO Office
Address: 2F, Chang Hong New Era Building, 55 & 57 Zhouzi Street, Neihu District, Taipei, Taiwan 114台北市內湖區洲子街55/57號2樓
Telephone Number: (886) 2-2658-8825
Fax Number: (886) 2-2658-8867
Website: https://www.meco.org.tw/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/MECO.official/
Google Map Location
Please see the map location of the MWO office in Taipei (handled by MECO office):