The Philippine government considers Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) as good investors due to the large amount that they contribute in our economy through their remittances. In recognition of their contribution, arriving OFWs who will spend their holiday season in the country will have a chance to win prizes in this year’s “Pamaskong Salubong sa OFWs.”

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) will lead the Pamaskong Salubong sa OFWs. They will give away houses and lots, a passenger jeepney, two multi-purpose vehicles and motorized tricycles.

Pistang Pasko sa Pamilyang OFW, this year’s theme of Pamaskong Salubong sa OFWs, will be launched on the 18^th of December, 2006, and will run until 31^st of the month. And one arriving OFW per day will win on TV set from OWWA.

There will be stickers that would differentiate arriving OFWs from the rest of other balikbayan. The stickers will be placed on their shirts and luggage as the basis to win Christmas package.

The Manila International Airport Authority and other attached agencies are preparing a hassle free arrival of OFWs. There are also special lanes at the immigration and customs counters to facilitate their travel documents.

There are also other projects for OFWs this holiday season. This includes the OFW Family Day, which will be celebrated in 17 regions in the Philippines, Model OFW Family of the Year Award, “OWWAish Ko Lang,” and other special events which will be joined by some Philippine media groups.

Meanwhile the airport management also prepared a raffle promo dubbed as “An Airfare to Remember.” This promo is not only for OFWs arriving this holiday season but for all Filipinos who will depart and arrive here during the Christmas season.

This project will run until January 20, 2007 and another three houses and lots and five motorcycles will be awarded to lucky winners. Departing OFWs can register at the OFW lounge at the airport.