We will be back in PH again next month for a short vacation to finally arrange our marriage documents. I was checking all our must haves and important things already, I have three weeks to double check and schedule our meet-ups (everything).
| Travel Essentials | |
| Passport (valid 6 months) Itinerary/Web Check-in Work Visa/Pass |
ATM Cards (PH/SG) Printed hotel accommodation in Cebu Cash |
Last month August, when we had 2 days short trip back home, we got our OEC online. It was fast and easy, we used DragonPay to pay it online. We paid PHP 119.50/each.
Image above using DragonPay
I still have my online copy of OEC and the expiration date was still valid for our next trip.
The good news OFWs who will be returning to their former employer, or “Balik Manggagawa,” will no longer be required to secure an overseas employment certificate (OEC) starting September 15, 2016. Covered by the OEC exemption are returning workers who are:
- Returning to the same employer and job site, and listed in the POEA database of OFWs; or
- Hired through POEA’s Government Placement Branch
I decided to check my account at BM Online and yes, I am exempted from securing OEC. 🙂
OEC Exemption
- Proceed directly to the Airline counter at the airport for check-in.
- Proceed to Immigration counter. Present your Passport valid at least 6 months from date of departure, valid work visa/work permit indicating your employer and jobsite.
- In case your work visa does not indicate the name of your employer, you may present any of the following proof of employment stating your employer: valid employment contract, current employment certificate, valid employment ID, recent payslip. For domestic workers, valid POLO Verified Employment Contract shall be presented.
- For your Travel Tax Exemption (Airline counter) and Terminal Fee Exemption (MIAA counter), bring a photocopy of any proof of overseas employment, as mentioned above including your airline ticket with code “LI International”.
Before, we need to arrange time (apply for half-day leave to our employer – Philippine Embassy office is available Monday to Friday only), sometimes we cannot make it and we would buy time and process our OEC to private agencies in Lucky Plaza which cost us more. The time spent queuing and acquiring OEC adds us hassle – requires time, effort and money. I am very thankful with this new mandate.
No more exit clearance.
Please note that only those who are returning to the same employer and jobsite/destination country and whose records matches POEA database are exempted from OEC requirement.
For Overseas Filipino Workers who are going back to Philippines for the first time will need to register and set an appointment at BM Online Processing System. Select your preferred POEA office and schedule for processing of OEC and payment.
Image above for sample OEC appointment last December 2015
OFW’s need to print 2 copies to be presented to the following:
– Airline Company Tax Travel Exemption
– Terminal Fee Exemption
– Bureau of Immigration Counter at the airport
For more information, OFW’s in Singapore may check frequently asked questions at Philippines Embassy website.
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