The newly redesigned POEA Online Processing System for Balik Manggagawa or the POPS-BaM system is a more secure platform for returning Filipino migrant workers who need to process their exit clearances. It has been created to replace the BM Online or Balik Manggagawa Online portal in 2021 to provide better and faster processing for exit documents for OFWs.
This new portal for Balik Manggagawa or returning OFWs is more often used in obtaining Overseas Employment Certificates. The OEC is one of the most important requirements for OFWs leaving the country to extend or complete their employment contracts. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand what POPS-BaM is and how you can register in this portal to process your needed documents.
What Is POPS-BaM?
The POEA Online Processing System for Balik Manggagawa is a secure portal designed to provide better and more efficient services than the old BM Online system. This new platform is accessible to OFWs who need to obtain all mandatory requirements including affidavits, OECs, and other documents needed to process their overseas employment application.
Whether you need to process requirements for an OEC or a foreign employment opportunity, this is the go-to platform you’ll ever need. The features and options available in the portal is designed to expedite the process for returning OFWs who need to go back to their host country in order to continue their contract.
By creating a POPS-BaM account, you don’t need to go to the nearest POLO office / MWO Office in the country of your employer anymore, or any DMW branch in the Philippines. You can even take advantage of the benefits of an OEC exemption if you qualify. However, there are instances when OFWs still need to undergo regular processing for OECs depending on their situation.
If you need to get an OEC right now, make sure to visit the official website of the Department of Migrant Workers and go to the Online Services Portal through this link: https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph/OnlineServices.
Qualifications for the POPS-BaM Account Registration
So, who is allowed to use the POPS-BaM portal? The system is designed for all Filipino workers aspiring to work abroad and OFWs returning to their employers overseas. Generally, the main functionalities of the system include e-registration, OEC appointment booking, OEC exemption, and OEC application.
Here are the individuals qualified to use the POPS-BaM online system:
- OFWs who don’t have POPS-BaM or BM Online records.
- OFWs who changed their employers or transferred to a new job site.
- OFWs hired by the Government Placement Branch under the POEA.
- OFWs without valid work permits or visas.
- Individuals employed by recruitment agencies.
- Filipino workers who are directly hired by their international employers.
Requirements for POPS-BaM Portal Registration
In order to use the POPS-BaM online system, it’s important to secure the requirements needed for account registration. To avail of this service, you need the following requirements:
- Profile with personal information.
- Valid passport and work visa.
- Active email address.
- Valid employment contract.
- Active POPS-BaM online account.
How to Register in the POPS-BaM Portal
It’s so easy to register for your POPS-BaM system account. Just follow these steps:
1. Log onto the Department of Migrant Workers Online Services Portal, link here: https://onlineservices.dmw.gov.ph/OnlineServices/POEAOnline.aspx.
2. Tap the Let’s Go button.
3. You will see a pop-up on the screen, click on the Register button.
4. On the Terms of Use and Privacy Statement, make sure to read it before you click Accept.
5. The online form will appear, fill out all the required details including your name, gender, email address, and birth date.
6. Once you have accomplished the form, click on the Register button.
7. You will see a dialog box asking to confirm all your personal details are correct. Check them and click Yes if they are all accurate.
8. A notification will appear to inform you that your e-registration is successful. Don’t forget to copy the reference number and save it.
9. Go to your email so you can get your temporary password.
10. With the temporary password, log in to your account using your email or username. Then make sure to change the password before completing the registration process.
To change the temporary password after you’ve logged in to your account for the first time, go to the Online Services and then click Let’s Go under the e-registration tab. A pop-up will appear, key in your email address and password. Create your new password and save it.
Important Things to Remember
When using the new POPS-BaM online portal, do not forget the following reminders:
- Before you can transfer your records, BM Online users must create an account and register with the new POPS-BaM system.
- The profile information must be completed before users can navigate the Online Services portal.
- The POPS-BaM system can be accessed by Filipino workers aspiring to work abroad as well as those OFWs working the land- or sea-based.
- Make sure to use an active email address when you register for a new account in order to receive the temporary password you will need to log into the site.
- Only use one account for your e-registration to avoid issues in processing your contracts and records.
- Submit a ticket using the HelpDesk section in the POPS-BaM online system in case of errors in your personal details. Do not create a new account.
- If you encounter some technical issues such as not receiving the temporary password via the confirmation email, submit a ticket.
- The passport details should match those in your POPS-BaM account.
- Returning OFWs to the same job site and employer can conveniently use the POPS-BaM portal in order to obtain OEC and exemption without leaving their home.
- It usually takes two to six hours to transfer your records from the old BM Online to the new POPS-BaM system. After six hours and your record transfer is not completed yet, you can submit a ticket to the DMW Help Desk.
- Update all your information in the My Profile section whenever there are new changes to be made to your requirements.
- When transferring your BM Online records to the new portal, the POPS-BaM system will sync your details such as name and birth date, which may take up to 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Am I required to create a POPS-BaM account?
All OFWs and Filipino workers aspiring to work abroad should register for POPS-BaM as they are governed under the DMW which requires them to have records in the online system. This is important in tracking and verifying OFWs when processing their legal documents.
2. Is BM Online the same as the POPS-BaM system?
No, these two online systems are not the same. The new POEA Online Processing System for Balik Manggagawa is a replacement for the old Balik Manggagawa Online system.
3. Can I process my OEC application through BM Online?
Not anymore when the POPS-BaM system was introduced in 2021 to replace the old BM Online. Therefore, you need to transfer your records from the BM Online portal to the new system in order to obtain an OEC as well as the OEC exemption if you’re qualified.
4. What are the uses of the new POPS-BaM system?
In addition to obtaining an online OEC appointment, you can also use the POPS-BaM system in applying for an OEC, an OEC exemption, and other essential documents. Filipino workers and OFWs can also use the portal to search for jobs and employment opportunities via job fairs and other events.
5. What should I do if I entered the wrong detail and didn’t receive a confirmation email with my temporary password?
Submit a ticket to the Help Desk or contact the DMW office near you to address your concern. Avoid creating a new POPS-BaM account because it will only make matters worse and even cause issues and delays in the future.
Video: POEA POPS-BaM
In this video, you will learn about the new POPS-BaM online portal and how you can get your OEC as a returning OFW to your host country. There are tips and steps on how to process your documents, and how long it will take to get them. This 6-minute video will walk you through the registration process while making sure that you enter the correct information to avoid future problems.
Summary
The POPS-BaM is a vital link between OFWs and their dreams of working abroad. The main purpose of the new platform is to help Filipino migrant workers conveniently process their documents without the hassle of visiting the DMW office to get an OEC. So now that you understand what it is and how it works, expect a smooth processing experience when getting your exit clearances and OEC exemption.
Make sure to log onto the official platform when registering a POPS-BaM account to prevent issues and other delays in your application. Find better employment opportunities abroad with the new POPS-BaM online system.