A rape victim who decides to file a case against the rapist shall immediately report the incident to police authorities. The victim shall be able to present sufficient evidence during the investigation at police station or at the prosecution and investigation department for authorities to determine the filing of the case

As general advice:

• All Filipino nationals are advised to keep a file of all their important documents and the contact numbers of the Philippine embassy/consulate, OWWA and POLO. All Filipino nationals especially the female, are further advised to avoid entertaining, talking to or going with strangers, attending gatherings which are prohibited, to be respectful of islam and the culture in the kingdom (like for female: wearing of the appropriate dress to cover the body and face when in public faces as dictated by the rules of islam), and to abide by the laws of the saudi government at all times.
• All overseas filipino workers are advised to lodge their complaints against their employers at the saudi labor court or through owwa or polo if it is necessary, and are discouraged as well to run away from their sponsors if problems arise unless the situation warrants.

For resident workers who are victims of maltreatment and physical abuse, immediately report the incident to the concerned police station or to the Philippine Consulate or its attached concerned agencies like the Philippine overseas labor office (polo) or the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) while there are still traces or evidence/s of physical abuses. Please be reminded that a referral letter from the police station is required by the government hospital which is tasked to do the medical examination on victims of physical abuses and issue medical report thereafter. And, only medical reports issued by concerned government hospitals are accepted by police authorities relative to the investigation on the complaint/case filed by victims.

• For non-workers or dependents of OFWs who are victims of physical abuses, report the incident immediately to police authorities.

•    For legal workers who are victims of maltreatment and physical abuse, immediately report the incident to the concerned police station or to the philippine consulate or its attached concerned agencies like the philippine overseas labor office (polo) or the overseas workers welfare administration (owwa) while there are still traces or evidence/s of physical abuses. Please be reminded that a referral letter from the police station is required by the government hospital which is tasked to do the medical examination on victims of physical abuses and issue medical report thereafter. And, only medical reports issued by concerned government hospitals are accepted by police authorities relative to the investigation on the complaint/case filed by victims.

•    For non-workers or dependents of ofws who are victims of physical abuses, report the incident immediately to police authorities.

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Common Offenses

• Drinking, selling or manufacturing alcohol
• Caught with boyfriends/girlfriends
• Possession of pornographic materials
• Soliciting sex.
• Using or selling drugs
• Gambling, Lotto, Sabong
• Theft
• Using fake documents
• Embezzlement in various forms
• Bribery

Arrest and Detention

• The vast majority of Filipinos in the Kingdom are productive and law-abiding residents of the Kingdom. Be that as it may, a knowledge of Saudi rules on arrest is beneficial for Filipinos to protect their rights.
• GENERAL RULES
• No person shall be arrested, searched, detained, imprisoned except in cases provided by law to be done in places designed for such purposes and for periods prescribed by competent authorities. (Art. 2) ??????? Criminal Procedure Law
• Arrested person should NOT be
• Subjected to bodily harm, moral harm, torture or degrading treatment. (Art 2)
• Any accused person has the right to a lawyer or a representative to represent him during investigation and trial stages (Art 4)
• Sentences are appealable by the convicted person or by the prosecutor. (Art 9)

THE BASIC RULE ON ARREST: NO PERSON SHALL BE  ARRESTED EXCEPT ON BASIS OF ORDER FROM A COMPETENT AUTHORITY

The Saudi Criminal Procedures provides two instances for an arrest to be made:

• Based upon a warrant of arrest issued by a competent authority
• For acts committed in flagrante delecto (caught in the act)

Rights of arrested person:

• To be treated decently
• Not to be subjected to bodily harm
• Not to be subjected to moral harm
• To be advised on the reason of his detention
• To be entitled to communicate with any person of his choice to inform him of his arrest.
• To be imprisoned or detained only in places designated for such purpose.
• A prisoner or detainee shall have the right to submit, at any time, a written or verbal complaint to the prison or detention center officer and request that he communicate it to a member of the Bureau of Investigation and Prosecution and detention authorities must provide the prisoner or detainee an acknowledgement of receipt.

The Consulate could become the representative of an accused because International Law grants the Consulate  certain Consular Powers with respect to representing Filipinos

Consular Functions

The 1963 Geneva Convention on Consular Relations specify consular functions as consisting of:

• Protecting the interest of Filipinos within limits permitted by international law (art.  5,  par (a))
• Helping and assisting Filipinos (art. 5, par (e))
• Representing or arranging representation to Filipinos before tribunals and other authorities for purposes of obtaining, in accordance with law, provisional measures for the preservation of rights and interest of Filipinos when Filipinos are at that time unable to protect their rights or interests (art. 5, par (i))

In addition, it is assumed that:

• Consular officers shall have free access to Filipinos and Filipinos should have free access to Consular officers (art 36, par (a))
• If the Filipino so requests, authorities shall inform, without delay, inform the Consulate that the Filipino is arrested, committed to prison, under custody pending trial or is detained in any manner. Such communication should be relayed without delay and the Filipino should be informed without delay that he has such right to communicate.
• Consular officers shall have the right to visit a Filipino who is in prison, custody or detention and to converse and correspond with him to arrange legal representation.

There are basically three categories of punishments in Shari`ah:

Hadd

The first is Hadd, which includes divinely prescribed forms of fixed punishment based upon the Qur'an and Sunnah. These are punishments set to preserve the public interest; they cannot be lightened nor made heavier, nor can the offender be pardoned. They instill a deep feeling of abhorrence in the society towards the crime for which the offender has been punished. Such crimes include drinking alcohol, armed robbery, theft, illicit sexual relations, apostasy, and slanderous accusations of promiscuity.

Qisas

The second form is called Qisas, which is the punishment for homicide and assault. Whenever a person causes physical harm or death to another, the injured or family of the deceased has the right to retaliation. A unique aspect of Qisas, is that the victim's family has the option to insist upon the punishment, accept monetary recompense, or forgive the offender, which could even avert capital punishment. This leaves the door open to compassion and forgiveness. Settlements are therefore encouraged outside of court, as a judge must exact the punishment.

Ta'zir

All other crimes fall into the third category, Ta`zir, which is a discretionary punishment decided by the court.

So, in the light of this, one cannot just brandish Islamic penal codes as being too harsh or inhumane while neglecting the fact that the source of those penal codes is the Mighty Lord, the Supreme Lord of the Universe. Everything with Him has been measured with absolute perfection. This perfection is reflected in the strict procedures laid down before a person can be convicted and punished. Actually, all forms of punishment stipulated by Shari`ah are more reforming and more successful in preventing recurrent crime than the man-made legal systems whose futility is proved and confirmed by daily incessant crimes, with prisons becoming homes to homosexuality and schools for harboring criminal behavior.

Based, with slight modifications, on "Punishment in Islam: An Eye For An Eye?" Al-Haramain Online Newsletter, Volume 4, Issue 8, 1st Rabi` Ath-Thani 1421 A.H. (July 2000).

What are Huddud crimes?

Hudud (also transliterated hadud, hudood; singular hadd, literal meaning "limit", or "restriction") is the word often used in Islamic literature for the bounds of acceptable behaviour and the punishments for serious crimes. In Islamic law or Sharia, hudud usually refers to the class of punishments that are fixed for certain crimes that are considered to be "claims of God." They include theft, fornication, consumption of alcohol, and apostasy.

Hudud offenses are defined as "claims of God," and therefore the sovereign was held to have a responsibility to punish them. All other offenses were defined as "claims of [His] servants," and responsibility for prosecution rested on the victim. This includes murder, which was treated as a private dispute between the murderer and the victim's heirs. The heirs had the right to compensation and to demand execution of the murderer (see qisas), but they could also choose to forgive.

• Theft (sariqa,)
• Highway robbery (qat' al-tariq,)
• Illegal sexual intercourse (zina')
• False accusation of zina' (qadhf,) [3]
• Drinking alcohol (sharb al-khamr)(Unlike the first four offences listed above , not all jurists consider drinking alcohol to be a hudud offense.)[4]
• Apostasy ( ridda,) includes blasphemy. (Unlike the first four offenses listed above, not all jurists consider apostasy to be a hudud offense.[citation needed])

What are punishments for Huddud crimes?

The punishments vary according to the status of the offender - Muslims generally receive harsher punishments than non-Muslims, free people receive harsher punishments than slaves, and in the case of zina', married people receive harsher punishments than unmarried.
In brief, the punishments include:

• Capital punishments - by sword/crucifixion (for highway robbery with homicide), by stoning (for zina' when the offenders are mature, married Muslims)
• Amputation of hands or feet (for theft and highway robbery without homicide)
• Flogging with a varying number of strokes (for drinking, zina' when the offenders are unmarried or not Muslims, and false accusations of zina')

What are Tazir crimes?

In Islamic Law, tazir (or ta'zir, Arabic) refers to punishment, usually corporal, that can be administered at the discretion of the judge, as opposed to the hudud (singular: hadd), the punishments for certain offenses that are fixed by the Qur'an or Hadith. Traditionally, ta'zir punishments could be applied to offenses for which no punishment is specified in the Qur'an. They could also be applied to hadd offenses in situations where the standards of proof required for hudud punishments could not be met.

DETENTION/HEARINGS

• If you have information on the detention of a Filipino, please inform the Consulate General immediately at 0555-219-613
• If you are arrested, request the police authorities to contact the Consulate General and inform us of your detention. You may request the presence of a Consulate Representative during the investigation.(Art. 4 Saudi Law of Criminal Procedures)
• Once detained, inform the Consulate General of your hearing, if possible, so that you could be assisted.

At the time of arrest :

• Call the nearest Embassy or Consulate to inform of the arrest at 0555-219-613
• Call your friends and co-workers and request them to report to the Consulate that you have been arrested;
• Always keep a list of  contact numbers in your bag

Know your rights:

• No person shall be arrested, searched, detained and imprisoned except in cases provided by law to be done in places designated for such purposes and for periods prescribed by competent authorities.
• You should not be subjected to bodily and moral harm.  You should not be subjected to torture and degrading treatment.
• When you are arrested, you  have the right to a lawyer or a representative of the Embassy or Consulate to represent you and assist  during the investigation and trial stage;

During investigation:

• Never admit the crime if you are innocent;
• Ask for a Consulate representative to be present during the investigation;
• Never sign any document which you cannot read and understand
• Request the police to call the Consulate for assistance

While detained at the police station:

• Request the police for visit by a Consulate representative;
• If you have a cell phone, call your friends and request to report your detention to the Consulate;
• Most likely, if the police cannot extract any information, they will call the Consulate for assistance;

When taken into custody by prison authorities;

• When being investigated by Saudi authorities, do not volunteer any information if not asked; limit your statements to facts;
• Deny statements  or acts which you have not said or done;
• Wait for the visit of Consulate representative/s and be ready for the interview; Always tell the truth when questioned by Consulate representative/s for this will help them to analyze what course of action to take on your case;
• Do not keep any vital information when questioned by Consulate representative;

When taken to the Prosecutor’s Office or Court:

• Request the prison authorities to inform the Consulate of the
• date  and time of the hearing;
• In case the Consulate representative is not present, request the jail   guard to take the name and room number of the judge;
• Ask for the Case No. and other important information which you can later give to the Consulate;
• Do not answer any question if you do not understand the question during the court proceedings; request for a court interpreter;
• Request the interpreter to explain to you what the judge says or what is written in the record book before signing any document inside the court.

While waiting for court sentence:

• Visit your Saudi case officer from time to time for updates o your case; tell her you have the right to know what is going on with your case otherwise, you will inform the Consulate about their refusal to provide you with information;
• Wait for the Consulate representative to visit and course your letters to your family and other requests thru her/him;
• Request the Consulate representative to follow-up your case or provide her/him if you any important information relative to your case;

During the imposition of the sentence:

• Be attentive and listen very well during the proceedings of the trial;
• If the court will ask you if you agree to the sentence imposed on you, make sure the court interpreter has explained the verdict to you before agreeing; if you do not agree
• Do not sign anything if you do not agree on the sentence given to you;
• Ask for a re-trial or make an appeal on your case if you are not satisfied with the sentence;
• You are entitled to appeal the sentence imposed on you within 30 days;
• During the visit of the Consulate representative, request assistance to prepare your appeal to the Tameez Court;

When appealing for your case:

• Make sure you retain a copy of your letter of appeal before submission to the court;
• Wait for the decision of the Tameez Court;
• Request Consulate representative to make representation with Saudi concerned authorities for the speedy deliberation on your appeal thru Note to SMFA;

What is Qisas?

• Qisas - meaning retaliation, and following the biblical principle of "an eye for an eye."
• Qisas (Arabic) is an Islamic term meaning retaliation, similar to the biblical principle of an eye for an eye. In the case of murder, it means the right of the heirs of a murder victim to demand execution of the murderer.
• O you who believe, equivalence is the law decreed for you when dealing with murder - the free for the free, the slave for the slave, the female for the female. If one is pardoned by the victim's kin, an appreciative response is in order, and an equitable compensation shall be paid. This is an alleviation from your Lord and mercy. Anyone who transgresses beyond this incurs a painful retribution.[1][2]^ Sura 2, (Al-Baqarah) 178

However, the Quran also prescribes that one should seek compensation (Diyya) and not demand retribution.[3]
As execution for murder was conceived as the retaliation of the victim's heirs, traditionally the state could only carry out the execution with their permission, and they were free to forgive the murderer, either as an act of charity or in return for compensation.

What is Diyya?

• Diyya - compensation paid to the heirs of a victim. In Arabic the word means both blood money and ransom.  Diyaa is part of private rights due to the victim(s), and could not be waived by the sovereign.

In Saudi Arabia, when a person has been killed or caused to die by another, the prescribed blood money rates are as follows[7]:

• 100,000 riyals if the victim is a Muslim man
• 50,000 riyals if a Muslim woman
• 50,000 riyals if a Christian man
• 25,000 riyals if a Christian woman
• 6,666 riyals if a Hindu man
• 3,333 riyals if a Hindu woman.

The amount of compensation is based on the percentage of responsibility. Blood money is to be paid not only for murder, but also in case of unnatural death, interpreted to mean death in a fire, industrial or road accident, for instance, as long as the responsibility for it falls on the causer.

General Information

ATN cases are the primary responsibility of PCG’s Assistance to Nationals Section. A quick look at the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations and consular functions illustrate the heavy emphasis that consulates shall function within the framework and limits of the laws and regulations of the receiving State. In this case the Consulate exercises its functions in accordance with the laws and regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Republic Act 8042 manifests the government’s commitment to protect the rights and promote the welfare of migrant workers, their families and other overseas Filipinos in distress.  In response to this mandate PC Jeddah’s Assistance to Nationals Section provides assistance to Filipinos in the 7 regions under its consular jurisdiction.
The ATN Section extends assistance in the following areas:

Legal Assistance

• Legal assistance is given to Filipinos facing labor or criminal cases with provisions for fees to hire legal counsel, bail bonds, court fees and charges, as well as for other litigation expenses, contingent upon approval by the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs.

Repatriation

• Filipino nationals who are not members of OWWA will be assisted by the ATN Section in their repatriation by coordinating with employers, as well as Saudi Government authorities.

Jail Visitation

• ATN Section regularly conducts jail visitation to Filipinos in detention to look after their welfare.

Shipment of Remains

• ATN Section coordinates with employers of deceased Filipinos for the expeditious shipment of their remains. The Section assists in the documentation and facilitation, together with the Liaison Officer of the company, for the completion of documentary requirements and early shipment of remains.

Police and Detention Cases

• ATN Section assists Filipinos in filing complaint against their employers by aiding them in the police stations, the General Prosecution and Investigation Office, hospitals and other venues preliminary to filing a case.

Blood Money Claims

• Post represents heirs claiming blood money by attending court hearings, negotiating with employers as well as claiming and remitting the blood money once they are awarded by the Court.

Financial Support

• The Section responds to the request of families in the Philippines to contact Filipinos in the Kingdom who have failed to give support to their spouses and children.

if the family decides to have the remains of the deceased Filipino in Saudi Arabia, below are the requirements:

REQUIREMENTS FOR BURIAL OF REMAINS IN THE KINGDOM (NON-MUSLIM):

• Complete the form “Application for burial and Registry of Burial”;
• Letter of “No Objection” from the Consulate of the deceased’s nationality;
• Copy of Medical Report;
• Copy of death certificate (if already issued);
• Burial permit must be issued by the hospital where the death has occurred. If death occurred outside the hospital, burial permit should be issued by the hospital where the body is brought and kept;
• Copy of the deceased’s iqama;
• Receipt of SR2500.00 (adult) or SR1500.00 (child)

P.S. A stone plate with the engraved name of the deceased person must be placed on the grave. The caretaker of the cemetery will assist or provide a uniform stone plate, which is available in two sizes.  Small size: SR350.00; Large size: SR500.00

REQUIREMENTS FOR  BURIAL OF REMAINS IN THE KINGDOM (MUSLIM):

• Death Report;
• SPA / Letter from the legal heirs – No objection to bury in the Kingdom authorizing the relative of the Consulate to bury the human remains;
• No Objection Certificate from the Consulate will be submitted to the Police authority where the body lies under its jurisdiction;
• Police will write letter to the hospital where the body is kept;
• The Hospital where the body is kept will issue a burial permit to be submitted to the Muslim Cemetery.

If the family decides it wants the remains shipped to the Philippines, they should submit immediately the requirements below to DFA – OUMWA:

REQUIRED :  Special Power of Attorney (SPA)

To be signed by any of the following surviving heirs in favor of the deceased’s Saudi Employer and/or the Philippine Consulate General:

1. Legal Spouse
2. Children of legal agE
3. Parents/Brother/Sister (if deceased is single)

Note: The family should authorize the Saudi Employer / sponsor of the deceased OFW and/or the Philippine Consulate General only, and not any other person.

REQUIRED : Affidavit of Heirship (AH)

To be signed by the surviving spouse and children of the deceased and the parent/s, brother/s, or sister/s if the deceased OFW is single. State if one of the heirs is already deceased.

Authentication and Translation

The Special Power of Attorney and the Affidavit of Heirship must be authenticated and translated following this procedure:

1. Authentication by the Regional Trial Court having jurisdiction on the notary public.
2. Translation of SPA and AH by the DFAMPCI-MEATSCO at the DFA in Pasay or the Office of Muslim Affairs.
3. Authentication by the DFA Authentication Office.
4. Authentication by the Royal Saudi Embassy in Manila.

The relatives of the deceased are requested to coordinate with the Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs – 3rd flr, Department of Foreign Affairs, Pasay City, with tel. nos. 834-4996 and 834-4000, so that they could sign the Letter Acceptance of Human Remains (LAHR), which is required by the airlines as well as to be guided accordingly.

Documents Required for Shipment

1. Death Notification / Medical Report – issued by the Hospital.
2. No Objection Certificate (NOC) issued by the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah.
3. Shipment Certificate – from the Governor’s Office.
4. Police Report – Letter from the Police Station having  jurisdiction over the hospital or residence where decease expired.
5. Death Certificate – from the Civil Affairs, Ministry of Interior.
6. Embalming Certificate – from the Hospital or Morgue
7. Final Exit – from the General Directorate of Passports
8. Flight Booking – Airway bill from cargo office.
9. From the Company:

• • Settlement of Death Benefits – Employer / Ministry of Labor;
  • Inventory of Personal Belongings – Employer.
  • Passport of deceased – Employer.

Please note that it is the employer who is primarily responsible to process the above-stated documents.

The Saudi Labor Law, Article 40, states that :

• The employer shall bear the costs of the foreign workman’s recruitment, the fees for issuance and renewal of his residence and work permits, as well as the attendant delay fines, profession change fees, exit and re-entry visa fees, and return ticket to the workman’s homeland upon termination of the relationship between the two parties.
• The workman shall bear the costs of his return to his homeland if he is found unfit for work or if he wishes to return home in the absence of a legitimate reason.
• The employer shall bear the cost of transferring the services of the workman he wishes to employ.
• The employer shall bear the cost of repatriating the dead body of the workman to the location where the contract has been concluded or the workman recruited, except where the dead workman’s body is buried in the Kingdom with the approval of his family. The employer shall be relieved of this duty if the General Organization for Social Insurance assumes this obligation.

Initial moves to claim blood money

1. Turnover of Police Report:  After the remains are shipped, the traffic police report stating that the deceased has private rights is given to the ATN case officer handling claims for the blood money.
2. Request for SPA and AH:  The Case Officer prepares a report to OUMWA requesting it to advise next of kin (NOK) to execute a Special Power of Attorney authorizing PCG Jeddah or any of their relative /friend in the Kingdom to follow-up their claim for blood money.  The NOK must also execute an Affidavit of Heirship (copy attached).
3. Acknowledgment of SPA and AH:  Once the SPA and AH are received by the Consulate, the Case Officer drafts a fax to OUMWA acknowledging receipt of the SPA and AH.
4. Authentication at the MFA and Ministry of Justice:  Case Officer goes to SMFA and SMJ to authenticate the SPA.

The next steps: Police and Court Proceedings

5. Traffic Police Department: If PCG Jeddah is authorized by the NOK, the case officer goes to the Traffic Police Department:

• PCG Jeddah case officer presents the SPA to the Traffic Police Department to make known to the latter that the Consulate is authorized to claim blood money due to the family of the deceased.

• If the case file is still in the Traffic Police Department, the PCG case officer requests the Police to forward the case file to the Court for the early settlement of the blood money.
• Promissory Note of Interest:   The Police will require the PCG Jeddah representative to sign a promissory note stating that he is authorized by the Consulate and promises to follow-up and closely monitor the case until its final resolution.
• Please note that if the case file was returned again to Traffic Police because there is no interested party, the case file will be archived.

6. Court: If the Traffic Police Department already forwarded the case to court:

• Referral No.:  At the Traffic Police Department, PCG Jeddah’s case officer gets the referral number of the case file and goes to the court.
• Scheduling of Hearing: PCG Jeddah Case officer requests the judge to schedule the court hearing. The judge schedules the court hearing and sends a subpoena through the umda (similar to barangay captain) or Police Station to inform the offender to attend the court hearing.
• The case officer must report promptly to DFA-OUMWA the above developments.
• Attendance of Hearings:  PCG Jeddah’s Case Officer must attend the hearings, and report promptly to the DFA – OUMWA.  If the hearings are outside of Jeddah, he must draft the necessary authority for funding for the travels and prepare his travel requirements.

Court Decision

7.  Once the court decision has been made and issued, the original of this will be handed by case officer and a copy will be forwarded to Baital mal [treasury] to check if the blood money has been deposited.

8.    If not, then the copy will be forwarded by the Judge to the Traffic Police. The Traffic Police will then forward to Civil Rights Office to implement the decision.  The Civil Rights will call the offender and ask him for the payment of the blood money.

Payment of Settlement (Blood Money or Diyah)

If payment has been done and the blood money has been deposited, this will be returned to the court where receipt of the blood money will be done and the case be closed and the original court decision should be attached in the case file.

The received check will be endorsed to the Consulate's Finance Officer for the remittance to the legal heirs of the deceased through OUMWA.

Important Shariah Ruling:

Under shariah law, Non-Muslim are not entitled to receive inheritance from the death of their Muslim relatives, kin, or spouses.

Therefore, non-Muslim heirs of a deceased Muslim (either by birth or those who converted to Islam prior to his/her death) are not entitled to inherit blood money.  If the heirs converted to Islam prior to the death of the Filipinos, has documents to prove his/her conversion, they may be entitled to inheritance and blood money.

For example, if a Muslim Filipino working in Jeddah was married to a non-Muslim, and he dies in a road traffic accident, the surviving wife is not entitled to inheritance including blood money, even if she converts to Islam.  If however she had converted to Islam prior to the death of her husband and has official conversion documents, she would be entitled to inherit.


Some blood money cases are pending either due to old case and the case files did not located or missing, the case officer will send a note verbal to SMFA request the SMFA assistance to coordinate with Saudi concern authorities to locate the case file. ( Please see Islamic law attached )

In cases of occupational injuries, old age deaths, the NOK may file his/her claim at the Workmen’s Social Compensation Insurance Office.

PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED:

• Delay in receiving the Special Power of Attorney from the NOKs,
• Absence of Saudi authorities handling the case,
• Delay in the release of police report;
• Case file did not located by the authorities (for old pending cases)
• Delay in receiving the ATN funds for travel expenses (outside Jeddah case)

•    For Filipinos who are still working with their employers/sponsors, please be advised that your employers have the obligation to provide for your medical insurance upon your arrival in the kingdom. If employers are not willing to provide medical insurance, they are obliged to pay in cash hospitalization expenses/bills of their employees or workers.

•    For overstaying or absconding filipino workers, please be advised that between life and death or in extremely emergency cases, the saudi governorate for health affairs has issued a directive to all government hospitals to accept patients who are in need of immediate medical attention and treatment.

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REPATRIATION:

• FOR OVERSTAYING UMRAH AND HAJJ PILGRIMS, YOU MAY VISIT THE OFFICE OF THE HAJJ ATTACHE FOR ASSISTANCE CONCERNING YOUR REPATRIATION TO THE PHILIPPINES.
• FOR OVERSTAYING OR ABSCONDING FILIPINO WORKERS, YOU MAY VISIT POLO-OWWA OFFICE FOR ASSISTANCE CONCERNING YOUR REPATRIATION TO THE PHILIPPINES.

NOTE:

PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT ACCORDING TO SAUDI IMMIGRATION RULES AND REGULATIONS ON OVERSTAYING FOREIGN NATIONALS, ABSCONDING EXPATRIATES/WORKERS, AND EXPIRED IQAMA (RESIDENCE PERMIT), THERE ARE CORRESPONDING IMMIGRATION PENALTY CHARGES/FEES THAT NEED TO BE SETTLED PRIOR TO THE ISSUANCE OF AN EXIT VISA FOR REPATRIATION TO COUNTRY OF ORIGIN.

Are you missing a relative in Saudi Arabia, especially in the western region?  Please provide us important information so that we can try to locate him/her.

Pimary information:

• Full Name
• Gender
• Employer or sponsor, address, and telephone numbers
• Nature of work in Saudi Arabia
• Telephone or contacts of friends in the same city
• Passport number, date and place of issuance
• Date of last contact
• Your contacts, phone, and email

It would also be helpful you provide:

• Contact details of friends in Saudi Arabia
• Place of birth of the missing person
• A recent photo
• General physical description

MGA DAPAT MALAMAN TUNGKOL SA REPORMANG IPINATUTUPAD SA PAGPAPADALA NG HOUSEHOLD SERVICE WORKERS (HSWs) SA IBANG BANSA

1.       Ano ang mga repormang ipinapatupad ng pamahalaan sa ating mga HSWs namagtatrabaho sa ibayong dagat?

-    US$400 pinakamababang sahod;

-    23 edad ng mga bagong HSWs;

-    pagkuha ng TESDA NC2 katibayan ng pagsasanay;

-    pagkuha ng orientasyon sa wika at kultura; at

-    pagbabawal ng pagsingil ng placement fee sa mga HSWs.

2.       Bakit kailangan ang mga repormang ito?

-    Para sa proteksyon at pangangalaga sa mga HSWs;

-    Para mapataas ang antas ng kaalaman;

-    Para itaas ang kanilang antas at dignidad bilang manggagawang Pilipino.

3.       Bakit kailangan ang sahod na US$400?

-    Ang HSWs ay nagtatrabaho ng mahigit sa 12 oras; at

-    Ang HSWs ay nagsasagawa ng mahalagang papel sa pamilyang kanyang pinaglilingkuran.

4.       Ano ang katotohanan tungkol sa reporma sa edad?  Bakit kailangan ng reporma sa edad?

-    Sa edad na 23 ang mga babae ay may sapat na pang-unawa, kaalaman at “emotional maturity” upang maiwasan o malabanan ang pangungulila, karahasan at pang-aabuso.

5.       Ano ang katotohanan sa pagkuha ng assessment at training?

-    Ang tamang relasyon ng HSWs at employer ay maaaring mangyari lamang kung alam at kaya ng HSWs ang mga tungkuling kanyang gagampanan, tulad ng pagluluto, paglilinis ng bahay at paggamit ng kasangkapang elektrila.

6.       Sino ang kinakailangan kumuha ng assessment?

-    Mga bagong HSWs

-    Ang mga datihang HSW na gusting kumuha ng TESDA Certificate bilang hakbang sa mataas pang pagsasanay.

7.       Sino ang kinakailangan mapasailalim sa training?

-    Ang mga hindi papasa ng tatlong ulit sa “assessment” na gagwain sa ilalim ng TESDA.

8.       Bakit kailangan ang orientasyon sa wika at kultura?

-    Para magkaroon ng magandang relasyon sa employer; at

-    Para magkaroon ng tamang kaalaman sa wika at kultura sa bansang kanyang pupuntahan.

9.       Sino ang kinakailangang kumuha ng orientasyon sa wika at kultura?

-    Lahat ng bagong HSWs;

-    Mga dating HSWs na lilipat at maglilingkod sa panibagong bansa; at iyong

-    HSWs na pupunta sa bansa na may hinihinging orientasyon sa kultura at wika at katibayan ng kasanayan (competency certificate) ay di na kailangan dumaan sa mga prosesong ito sa ilalim ng bagong reporma.

10.   Ano ang katothanan tungkol sa placement fee?

-    Ang “employer” ang dapat magbayad ng placement fee at hindi ang HSW.

11.   Ano ang katayuan ng mga recruitment agencies dahil sa bagong kautusan sa placement fee?

-    Ang recruitment agencies ay makakasingil sa mga employers ng HSWs

12.   Maasri bang bumaba ang deployment ng Pilipinas dahil sa mga reporma sa HSWs?

-    Maaring panandaliang mabawasan ng deployment sa unang pagpapatupad ng reporma, lalo na sa mga bansang sanay na magbayad ng US$200 ngunit hindi inaasahang pangmatagalan ito at mababawi rin agad.

13.   Maaapektuhan ba ang remittances na pumapasok sa Pilipinas dahil sa mga reporma?

-    Tinataya ng OWWA & POEA na hindi maaapektuhan ang remittances sapagkat ang umaalis na HSW taun-taon ay 9% lamang nga kabuoan ng lahat ng OFWs na umaalis;

-    Kung panandalian na mababawasan ang aalis na OFW ay mahigit na mapupunuan ang mawawala nilang remittances ng nakaalis na HSW dahil sa doble na ngayon ang sahod nila.

14.   Ano ang ginagawa ng pamahalaan upang matiyak na hindi magkakaroon ng masamang epekto ang reporma sa overseas deployment?

-    Pagbubukas ng bagong “labor markets” at pagpapalawak ng mga dati na;

-    Pagbubukas ng mataas na antas ng propesyon at kasanayan; at

-    Pagkilos ng ating mga Labor Offices sa abroad na suportado ng TESDA sa pamamgitan ng mas maigting na pagsasanay sa ibat’t ibang larangan ng paggawa.

15.   Kailan ipatutupad ang mga reporma?

-    December 16, 2006 para sa mga bagong HSWs;

-    March 1, 2007 para sa mga dating HSWs.

This is the 2005 Saudi Labor Law.  We suggest that you print a copy and read it carefully.  If you can, please send it to as many Filipinos in Saudi Arabia as possible.  There is also a basic guide book by the Saudi Ministry of Labor for expatriates which is very useful.

Labor Law

This is a very useful guidebook by the Saudi Ministry of Labor for foreign expatriates.  Please download and share with all your friends.

SMOL Guidebook for Expats

DEPORTATION - Definition and Scope

DEPORTATION is defined as  the  forcible  repatriation  of an  undesirable alien.
In  the experience of the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, Deportation Is carried out by  two   entities,  mainly  the  Saudi General Directorate for Passports,  popularly known as the “Jawasat”, and the authorities of Briman Prison.

Immigration  Law   offenders   are   detained,   investigated,  processed  and  are  eventually  deported by the  Passports  Office   from  two   facilities,   segregated    according    to    male    and    female    detainees.    Expatriates who were convicted of criminal offenses and who have served their sentences are processed and deported from the deportation facility inside Briman Prison.

Persons liable to be deported include, among others:

1. 1. Persons convicted of a crime, after service of sentence or after pardon.
2. 2. Umrah and Hajj pilgrims with expired visas.
3. 3. Expatriates with expired visitor’s visas.
4. 4. Absconding workers.
5. 5. Persons who harboured absconding workers.
6. 6. Visitors whose Mahram have already left the Kingdom.
7. 7. Persons engaged in visa-buying.
8. 8. Persons whom the Kingdom considers a threat to its national security.
9. 9. Persons who violated Immigration or other laws.
10. 10. Any other person that the Kingdom deems must be ejected from the Kingdom.

DEPORTATION PROCESS

1. Investigation– Deportees are first investigated to ascertain their identities, the status of their stay in the Kingdom, criminal/civil case records as well as other pertinent details.
2. Processing/Sentencing–Deportees who have been investigated and have been cleared are processed for deportation. Those who have violations would have their cases heard by a Committee and be sentenced accordingly.
3. Deportation— Deportees who have been cleared or who have finished their sentences are deported to the Philippines.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What rules govern deportation?

It is the laws of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the regulations of the Passport Office (Jawassat) that governs the deportation of a Filipino from the Kingdom.

How long does the deportation process last?

Depending on the availability of proper documentation as well as the vagaries of the investigation, the process could last as short as one week or as long as several months.

When we are already detained in the deportation center, how could we speed up our investigation?
Cooperating with the authorities by revealing your true identity, the name of your employer as well as other pertinent details would speed up the investigation. An original or copy of your passport and Iqama would also help in the investigation.

What are Documents of Identity?

Documents of Identity (DoI) are issued by the Consulate to Filipinos inside the deportation center to facilitate their deportation, especially when they do not have their passports.

Could we send money and other things to somebody inside the deportation center?

Rules inside the deportation centers prohibit anybody to bring to the detainees anything, be it food, money, clothes, beddings, etc. Persons deported are advised to bring money, warm clothes as well as medicines for cough, fever, flu and specific medications for their particular ailments.

What are other reminders on deportation?

There is only one rule that governs deportation, and that is the law and regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Consulate is mandated to follow the said rules. There is no “backdoor exit”, every deportee shall go through the legal processes as prescribed by the Jawassat. Beware of fixers or any other entity which promises an easy exit for a fee. For any inquiries, contact the Consulate directly.

Who is covered under SSS?

Voluntary membership:

1. Coverage of Separated Members

A member who is separated from employment or ceased to be self-employed/OFW/non-working spouse and would like to continue contributing.

2. Coverage of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)

A Filipino recruited in the Philippines by a foreign-based employer for employment abroad or one who legitimately entered a foreign country (i.e. tourist, student) and is eventually employed.

3. Coverage of Non-working Spouses of SSS members

A person legally married to a currently employed and actively paying SSS member who devotes full time in the management of household and family affairs may be covered on a voluntary basis provided there is the approval of the working spouse. The person should never have been a member of the SSS. The contributions will be based on 50 percent of the working spouse’s last posted monthly salary credit but in no case shall it be lower than P1,000.

When does the coverage of members take effect?

Effectivity of Voluntary Coverage

1. For an overseas Filipino worker – upon first payment of contribution, in case of initial coverage.
2. For a non-working spouse – upon first payment of contribution.
3. For a separated member – on the month he/she resumed payment of contribution.

How can one register with the SSS?

A person registering with the SSS for the first time as a prospective employee should accomplish SSS Form E-1 (Personal Record) and submit it together with the original/certified true copy and photocopy of any of the following: baptismal, birth certificate, driver’s license, passport, Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Card or Seaman’s Book. In the absence of these documents, any two of the following, one of which recent photo and date of birth, are acceptable.

However, surviving spouses and guardians aged 60 and above securing an SS number for the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) program, may be allowed to submit secondary documents with recent photo and age.

• Alien Certificate of Registration
• ATM card with the cardholder’s name
• ATM card and certification from the issuing bank that the account number belongs to the cardholder, if the card does not bear the cardholder’s name.
• Bank Account Passbook
• Birth/Baptismal Certificate of children
• Certificate form:
  -Office of the Southern/Northern Cultural Communities
  -Office of Muslim Affairs
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by the Bureau of Immigration
• Company ID
• Company Representative Authorization Card issued by SSS
• Credit Card
• Fishermen’s Card issued by Bureau of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources (BFAR)
• GSIS Card
• GSIS Certificate of Membership
• Health or Medical Card
• ID Card issued by Local Government Units (e.g. Barangay/    Municipality/City)
• ID Card issued by professional associations recognized by PRC
• Life Insurance Policy
• Marriage Contract
• NBI Clearance
• Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Card
• Pag-Ibig Member’s Data Form
• Permit to Carry Firearms issued by the Firearms & Explosives Unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP)
• PHIC Member’s Data Record
• Police Clearance
• Postal ID Card
• School ID
• Senior Citizen Card
• Tax Identification Card/Affidavit
• Transcript of School Records
• Voter’s Identification Card/Affidavit

A married person should also submit a marriage contract upon registration. If with reported children, the birth or baptismal certificate/s of child/ren, if legitimate; should be submitted; if reporting legitimated child/ren birth certificate with annotation “legitimated;” decree of adoption, if legally adopted-children. If reporting illegitimate children, birth or baptismal certificate(s) of children.

In the absence, any of the following stating the relationship to the reported dependent/beneficiary:

1. School Record
2. Insurance Policy
3. Statement before a court

The original or certified true copies of the documents should be presented to the SSS for authentication purposes.

For Employers

Single Proprietorships

An owner of a single proprietorship business should accomplish and submit SSS Form R-1 (Employer Registration) and R-1A (Employment Report).

Partnerships

Any of the partners of a partnership firm should accomplish SSS Forms R-1 (Employer Registration) and (R-1A (Employment Report) and submit these forms together with a photocopy of the Articles of Partnership. The original copy of the Articles of partnership must be presented to the SSS for Authentication purposes.

Corporations

A corporation must accomplish SSS Forms R-1(Employer Registration) and R-1A (Employment Report) signed by its President or any of the corporate officers and submit these forms together with a photocopy of the Articles of Incorporation. The original copy of the Articles of Incorporation must be presented to the SSS for authentication purposes.

Household-Helper Employers

A household employer who has an existing SS number should use this SS number as the employer number and shall be used in all transactions with regard to the household helper.

If no existing SS number, the household employer should get an SS number by accomplishing SSS Form E-1 (Personal Record).

For Self-Employed Members

A self-employed person should accomplish SSS Form RS-1 (Self-Employed Data Record) and submit it together with a photocopy of any of the following baptismal, birth certificate, driver’s license, passport, Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Card, Seaman’s Book. I n the absence of these documents, any two of the secondary documents mentioned earlier.

A self-employed member who has employees, should also register as an employer and secure an employer ID number which the company must use in all transactions with the SSS.

For Voluntary Members

Separated Members

A member who is separated from employment or ceases to be self-employed/OFW/non-working spouse may continue paying contributions through SSS Form RS-5 using the previously assigned SS number. Posting of said payment will change the membership status from covered employee, self-employed, OFW or non-working spouse to a voluntary paying member.

Non-Working Spouses

A non-working spouse should accomplish SSS Form NW-1 (Non-Working Spouse Record) and submit it, duly signed by the working spouse, with a copy of their marriage certificate.

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)

An OFW should accomplish SSS Form OW-1 (Overseas Worker Record) and submit it together with a photocopy of any of the following: birth certificate, baptismal certificate, driver’s license, valid passport, Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Card, or Seaman’s Book. In the absence of these documents, any two of the secondary documents mentioned earlier.

How can members change the data in their membership records?

Changes in a member’s record should be reported immediately to the nearest SSS office by accomplishing SSS Form E-4 (Member’s Data Amendment) and submit a photocopy of the following:

1. marriage certificate for change of civil status;
2. birth or baptismal certificate of children for new/ additional/change of dependents/beneficiaries.
3. birth or baptismal certificate or passport for correction of name and date of birth;

In the absence of the above-mentioned documents, submit a Certificate of Loss or Non-availability of the documents from the Local Civil Registrar of the place where the member was baptized and any two (2) of the following secondary documents, one of which with recent photo and date of birth, are acceptable:

• Record of Employment
• GSIS member’s Record
• Certificate from the National Archives
• Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR)
• Birth Certificate of Children
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by the Bureau of Immigration
• Marriage Contract
• Driver’s License issued by LTO
• School records
• Voter’s ID Card or Affidavit duly authenticated by COMELEC
• TIN card
• Life Insurance Policy
• NBI Clearance
• Pag-ibig Member’s Data Form
• PHIC Member’s Record
• Permit to carry firearms issued by the Fire & Explosives Unit, Camp Crame
• Certification from the Office of the Cultural Minorities (Aetas, Negritoes, Mangyans, Manobos, Etc.)

For Muslim members, a certificate form the Sharia Court should always be attached to the supporting documents for the following member’s data change requests:

1. marriage certificate for change of civil status;
2. certificate of divorce for divorce
3. certificate of conversion for conversion

The original or certified true copies of the documents should be represented to the SSS for authentication purposes.

Who are considered the legal dependents of a member?

The legal beneficiaries of a member are the legally married dependent spouse until he or she remarries, the dependent legitimated or legally adopted and illegitimate children, who shall be the primary beneficiaries.

If single, the benefits will go to the dependent parents who are considered the secondary beneficiaries.

In the absence of both primary and secondary beneficiaries, any other person designated by the member as the secondary beneficiary.

When a member loses the SS ID card or cannot remember the SS number, should the member secure another SS number?

No. The SS number assigned to a member is the lifetime number and must always be used in all transactions with the SSS. The member should not secure another number at any other time.

If the member wishes to secure another SS ID card and cannot remember the SS number, it is advisable to inquire from the nearest SSS office.

If a member has more than one SS number, this will cause delay in processing of the claim for benefits or loans in the future. Thus, it is important that a member should have only one SS number.

If a member has more than one SS number, it is important to write or visit the nearest SSS branch to request for the cancellation of the other number/s and consolidation of all of the contributions under the retained SS number. From then on, the retained SS number should always be used in all transactions with the SSS.

What are the duties and responsibilities of SSS employee-members

An SSS member should:

1. secure their SS numbers;
2. ensure that they are reported for coverage under the SSS by their employers;
3. pay their monthly share of contributions and ensure that these contributions are remitted to the SSS by their employers;
4. ensure that SSS Form R3’s (Contributions Collection Lists) where their name are included, are submitted to the SSS by their employers;
5. pay their monthly loan amortization, if any, thru salary deduction and to ensure that these payments are remitted to the SSS by their employers;
6. update or correct their personal records with the SSS by submitting a duly filled-up SSS Form E-4 (Member’s Data Amendment) and supporting document/s to avoid delays in the processing of benefit claims; and
7. be conscious of changes and improvements in SSS policies and benefit structure.

What are the duties and responsibilities of an SSS employer-member?

An employer is obliged to:

1. require the presentation of the SS number of a prospective employee;
2. report all employees for SS coverage within thirty (30) days from the date of employment by submitting an accomplished SSS Form R-1A (Employment Report ) at the nearest SSS office;
3. deduct from the employees the monthly SS contributions based on the schedule of contributions; pay their share of contributions including Employees’ Compensation (EC) and remit these contributions to the SSS or accredited banks within the first the (10) calendar days following the month when said contributions are due and applicable.
4. Submit a summary of all employees’ contributions thru SSS Form R-3’s (Contribution Collection List) together with a copy of the Special Bank Receipt (SBR) and SSS Form R-5 ( Payment Return Form) within 10 days after the applicable quarter;
   
   An employer may also participate in the SSSNet, a computer service using the electronic data interchange technology, designed to hasten the posting of employees contributions for faster processing and availment of benefits and loan privileges.
   
   Or, the employer may opt to participate in the R3 Tape/Diskette Project which allows the submission of the monthly summary of employees’ contribution thru a computer tape or diskette. This system is a better alternative to manual reporting as its minimizes encoding errors and processing time.
5. issue official receipts and maintain official records of employment and deductions for all contributions subtracted from their employees every month or indicate such deductions from the employees’ pay envelopes;
   
   A household employer should submit an accomplished SSS Form R-3 (Contributions Collection List) and indicate in the appropriate box as a household employer. Submit this together with the SSS Form R5’s at the nearest SSS office. Household employers may enroll in the Auto-Debit Arrangement System which allows the one-time enrollment of the employer’s bank account for the automatic payment of monthly SSS contributions and loan repayments. This arrangement is open at the United Coconut Planters Bank, Equitable-PCI Bank, Bank of the Philippine Islands, Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co., Philippine National Bank; Asia Trust Bank; Philippine Savings Bank; Development Bank of the Philippines; and more bank soon.
6. remit to the SSS all salary, educational, stocks investment or privatization loan amortization of their employees and submit an accomplished SSS Form ML-1 (Monthly Salary/Calamity/Emergency/Stock Investment Loan Payment Return) to any of the SSS accredited banks within the first ten (10) calendar days following the month when said amortizations are due and applicable;
   
   
7. submit a summary of all employees’ loan amortization thru an accomplished SSS Form ML-2 (Collection List) with copies of the SBRs and SSS Form ML-1 on or before the tenth day following the applicable month to the nearest branch;
   
   An employer may also participate in the Salary Loan Repayment Tape/Diskette project which allows the submission of the monthly summary of employees’ loan repayment thru a computer tape or diskette. This system provides employers with convenience and hastens the posting of member’s loan repayments.
   
   
8. advance SS and EC sickness benefits due their employees once these are approved by the SSS;
   
   
9. advance SS maternity benefits due to qualified female employees;
   
   
10. file for reimbursement for all legally advanced sickness and maternity benefits;
    
    
11. keep their employees updated on the changes in SSS policies and increases in their benefits;
    
    
12. ensure that all forms submitted are properly and accurately accomplished;
    
    
13. inform SSS of any change in company address, business name or temporary/permanent cessation of business operations through the submission of a duly notarized SSS Form R-8 ( Employer Data Change Request);
    
    
14. submit annually an updated SSS Form L-501 (Specimen Signature Card); and,
    
    
15. certify SSS-related documents for the employees when required for purposes of their claims.
    
    

What are the duties and responsibilities of a voluntary/self-employed member?

Self-employed/voluntary members should:

1. pay their monthly contributions using SSS Form RS-5 (Contributions Payment Return Form) monthly in accordance with the prescribed schedule;
   
   Beginning 01 January 2004, self-employed and voluntary members, including OFWs may change their MSC monthly. The change may be by one or two salary brackets without requiring the submission of documents to prove their earnings. In case the change will result to an MSC of lower than P5, 000.00, or where the change will result to more than the present MSC, a Declaration of Earnings must be submitted to support the new earnings. However, if the age of the member is 55 years or older and the present MSC is more than P10, 000.00, the allowed increase is only one salary bracket regardless of whether the supporting documents are submitted or not.
   
   For Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), the minimum MSC was increased from P3, 000.00 to P5, 000.00, or beginning 01 January 2004
   
   
2. update or correct their personal records with the SSS by submitting a duly filled-up SSS Form E-4 (Member’s Data Amendment) with supporting documents.
   
   
3. be conscious of changes and improvements in SSS policies and benefit structure.
   
   Self-employed and voluntary members may enroll in the Auto-Debit Arrangement System which allows the one-time enrollment of the employer’s bank account for the automatic payment of monthly SSS contributions and loan repayments. This arrangement is open at the United Coconut Planters Bank, Equitable/PCI Bank, Bank of the Philippine Islands, Metropolitan Bank and Trust Co., Philippine National Bank, Asia Trust Bank, Philippine Savings Bank, Development Bank of the Philippines; and more banks soon.

What is the Direct Housing Loan Facility for Overseas Filipino Workers?

The Direct Housing Loan Facility is designed to support the Government’s Pabahay sa Bagong Siglo Program which aims to provide socialized and low-cost housing to overseas Filipino workers.

What are the eligible purposes of the loan?

• Construction of a new house or dwelling unit on a lot owned by the applicant free from lien/encumbrances;

• Purchase of a lot and construction thereon of a new house or dwelling unit;

• Purchase of an existing residential unit which may be a house and lot, a condominium unit or a townhouse; and

• Purchase of an existing residential unit foreclosed by SSS, GSIS, HDMF (Pag-Ibig), HGC and other GFIs.

Who may borrow under the loan program?

• A certified overseas Filipino worker;

• An active SSS member and has paid at least twelve (12) months continuous contributions or at least twenty-four (24) months total contributions;

• Not more than sixty-five (65) years old;

• Not previously granted a housing loan by SSS, refund of contributions, retirement or total permanent disability benefit; and

• Up-to-date in the payment of all SSS contributions and other loan amortizations.

One of the spouses may still qualify for another loan if the other obtained the loan, prior to date of marriage and is not delinquent.

Who is an OFW?

• Currently deployed with a contract processed through the POEA or authenticated by the Embassy abroad.

• Those with employment contracts which are awaiting renewal/deployment; however, release of loan shall be made upon renewal/ deployment.

• Citizens or immigrants of foreign countries but are interested in buying housing units for their families who are still in the country.

• Long-term resident overseas Filipinos who wish to avail of housing packages either for themselves when they retire or when they visit the Philippines and/or for their extended families.

How much is the loanable amount?

The maximum loanable amount is P1,000,000.00 or whichever is the lowest of the amount applied for, the amount justified by the paying capacity, the loan value of the collaterals as determined by the SSS.

• Socialized Housing    - P 300,000.00

• Low-Cost Housing    - P 500,000.00
  - P 1,000,000.00

A maximum of three (3) qualified SSS members may be tacked-in for a single loan up to the combined maximum individual availment for the loanable amount secured by the same collateral, provided they are related within the 1st civil degree of consanguinity or affinity.

What is the term of the loan?

The loan is payable in multiples of five (5) up to a maximum of thirty (30) years but not to exceed the economic life of the building and the difference between the age of the borrower and 70, whichever is shorter.

What is the interest rate of the loan?

• Up to P300,000.00 – 9% p.a. fixed for the term of the loan.

• Over P300,000.00 up to P500,000.00 – 13% p.a.

• Over P500,000.00 up to P1,000,000.00– 14% p.a.

What are the collaterals for the loan?

The loan shall be secured by a first Real Estate Mortgage on the house and lot to be financed. The REM shall be annotated on the member-buyer’s TCT and shall be registered with the appropriate Registry of Deeds. It shall also be covered by an HGC guaranty.

What are the required documents for the loan?

The following documents should be submitted upon application:

• Mortgagor’s Application for Housing Loan with 1” x 1” ID pictures of Principal Applicant and Spouse (Original).

• Certificate of Loan Eligibility (Original) – (P100 Service Fee).

• Certification from POEA, DOLE, OWWA, SSS Foreign Representative Office or Philippine Embassy/Consular Office (Original).

• Latest Contract of Employment (Photocopy).

• Contract to Sell with statement of latest balance (Original).

• Owner’s copy of the Original/Transfer Certificate of Title (Photocopy).

• Latest Property Tax Declaration and Realty Tax receipt (Photocopy).

• Lot Plan with vicinity map duly signed and sealed by Registered Surveyor or Geodetic Engineer (Blue Print).

• Building plans/specifications/picture of the house (Blue Print).

• Confirmation of Completion and Appraisal from Home Guaranty Corporation located at Jade Bldg., 335 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City with tel. no. 895-90-11 (Original).

• A set of twelve (12) postdated checks covering twelve (12) monthly installments and shall be repeated every 12 months thereafter until the loan is fully paid.

• Certificate of Acceptance and Occupancy duly signed by the borrower if house is 100% complete at the time of loan filing (original).

• Special Power of Attorney (if filing is thru a representative) (original).

• Certified True Copy of the Original Transfer Certificate Title issued by the Registry of Deeds.

Note:

• Present original and submit one (1) photocopy for authentication purposes.

• Applicant must be up-to-date in all existing loan accounts with SSS subject to verification by SSS-Real Estate Department.

• SSS reserves the right to require additional documents if deemed necessary.

• Application Fee – ½ of 1% of loan amount or P500 whichever is higher, for both socialized and low-cost housing.

• Inspection Fee – P500 for both within and outside Metro Manila.

Where should the member file his application?

• To the nearest SSS office or foreign representative office or the Real Estate Department, 5/F, SSS Bldg., East Avenue, Quezon City).

How can an OFW repay his/her loan amortization?

• Issuance of a minimum of twelve (12) post-dated checks which shall be repeated every year thereafter until said loan shall be fully settled. Subject arrangement is incorporated in the mortgage contract entered into by the SSS and the borrower.

• Thru accredited collecting banks with overseas branches/offices.

• Thru the SSS Branch Tellering System

List of Collecting Banks with Overseas Branches/Offices

1. Allied Bank

2. Asia United Bank

3. Asiatrust Development Bank

4. Bank of Commerce

5. BPI

6. Chinabank

7. Development Bank of the Philippines

8. East West Bank

9. Equitable PCI Bank

10. Export and Industry Bank

11. International Exchange Bank

12. Land Bank of the Philippines

13. LBC

14. Metrobank

15. Philippine National Bank

16. Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation

17. Security Bank

18. UCPB

List of SSS Foreign Representative Offices

For more information contact the SSS Real Estate Department in Quezon City with telephone number 920-64-01 locals 5121 to 5128 or at the SSS office nearest you.

 

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When a person has secured an SS number does it mean that one is already an SSS member and therefore has the right to social security benefits?

No. Securing an SS number does not automatically mean a person is already covered as a member. One is considered a member when the employer has reported one for SSS coverage by the employer and has paid at least one month contribution as an employee. For self-employed, OFW or non-working spouse, they should have paid at least one month contribution. Securing an SS number does not mean automatic membership.

What is the effect of non-reporting and non-remittance of contributions?

To the Employee

The employee is still entitled to SS benefits even if the employer fails or refuses to remit the SSS contributions.

To the Employer

An employer who does not report temporary or provisional employees is violating the SS law. The employer is liable to the employees and must:

1. pay the benefits of those who die, become disabled , get sick or reach retirement age;

2. pay all unpaid contributions plus a penalty of three percent per month; and

3. be held liable for a criminal offense punishable by fine and/or imprisonment.

To the Self-employed Person

A self-employed person who fails to register with the SSS will also be fined and/or imprisoned.

However, in the event the self-employed person does not realize earnings in a given month, payment of SSS contributions for that month is no longer required.

To the Self-employed and Voluntary Member

A self-employed and voluntary member who fails to remit contributions after membership is approved, may pay the monthly contribution prospectively but is not allowed to pay contributions retroactively from the month no contribution payments were remitted.

In the case of the covered non-working spouse, if the person gets employed later, or becomes self-employed or an OFW, the membership shall be reclassified accordingly as employed or self-employed or OFW.

Can a member withdraw his membership with the SSS?

No. When a person registers for SSS membership in any capacity, either as an employee-member during employment, or as a self-employed or voluntary member the person becomes a member for life.

During such time that the member fails to remit contributions, the benefits and loan privileges provided by SSS can still be availed of for as long as the member meets the qualifying conditions for entitlement thereto.

What happens to the coverage of a member who has received a lump sum benefit for permanent total disability and is re-employed?

The recipient of a lump sum permanent total disability who is re-employed or has resumed self-employment or as an OFW or Non-working spouse, not earlier than one year from the date of disability, shall again be subject to compulsory coverage and shall be considered a new member.

MEMBERSHIP COVERAGE

Republic Act 9679 Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy – It is the policy of the State to establish, develop, promote and integrate a nationwide sound and viable tax exempt mutual provident savings system suitable to the needs of the employed and other earning groups, and to motivate them to better plan and provide for their housing needs by membership in the Home Development Mutual Fund, with mandatory contributory support of the employers in the spirit of social justice and the pursuit of national development.

MANDATORY MEMBERSHIP

• Employers and employees who should be covered by the SSS and the GSIS;
• Uniformed members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and the Philippine National Police;
• Filipinos employed by foreign-based employers, whether they are deployed here or abroad or a combination thereof.

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Membership to the Fund is also open to individuals 18 to 65 years old, provided they comply with the set rules and regulations for Pag-IBIG members including the amount of contribution and schedule of payment.

This may include the following:

• Non-working spouses who devote full time to managing the household and family affairs, unless they also engage in another vocation or employment which is subject to mandatory coverage.
• Filipino employees of foreign government or international organization, or their wholly-owned instrumentality based in the Philippines, in the absence of an administrative agreement with the Fund;
• Employees of an employer who is granted a waiver or suspension of coverage by the Fund under RA 9679;
• Leaders and members of religious groups;
• A member separated from employment, local or abroad, or ceased to be self-employed but would like to continue paying his personal contribution. Such member may be a pensioner, investor, or any other individual with passive income or allowances;
• Public officials or employees who are not covered by the GSIS such as Barangay Officials, including Barangay Chairmen, Barangay Council Members, Chairmen of the Sangguniang Kabataan, and Barangay Secretaries and Treasurers;
• Such other earning individuals or groups as may be determined by the Board by rules and regulations.

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This housing loan program grants opportunities to Pag-IBIG Fund members to avail of housing loans to finance any one or a combination of the following:

1. Purchase of a fully developed lot not exceeding 1,000 square meters, which should be within a residential area;


2. Purchase of a residential house and lot, townhouse or condominium unit, inclusive of a parking slot, which may be:

* Old or brand new;
* A property mortgaged with the Fund; or
* An acquired asset, which is disposed of through sealed public bidding, negotiated sale, the Rent-to-Own Program, or the “Magaang Pabahay, Disenteng Buhay” Program.

1. Construction or completion of a residential unit on a lot owned by the member;


2. Home improvement, i.e. any alteration in an existing residential unit intended by a homeowner to be a permanent integral part thereof, which will enhance its durability and material value;


3. Refinancing of an existing mortgage with an institution acceptable to the Fund, provided that:

* The loan is not in default within 12 months prior to the date of application;
* The said loan has a repayment history of at least two (2) years with the original mortgagee

1. Combination of loan purposes, which shall be limited to the following:

* Purchase of a fully developed lot not exceeding 1,000 square meters and construction of a residential unit thereon;
* Purchase of a residential unit, whether old or new, with home improvement;
* Refinancing of an existing mortgage with home improvement;
* Re* Refinancing of an existing mortgage, specifically a lot loan, with construction of a residential unit thereon.

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With the signing of Republic Act No. 9679, membership to the Fund shall be mandatory for the following:

• • a. All employees, workers, professionals, officers and companies who are compulsorily covered by the SSS and GSIS
  • b. Uniformed members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and the Philippine National Police;
  • c. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
  • d. Filipinos employed by foreign-based employers, whether deployed locally or abroad.

Membership to the Fund is also open to the following:

• • a. Non-working spouses of Pag-IBIG members;
  • b. Filipino employees of foreign government or international organization, or their wholly-owned instrumentality based in the Philippines, in the absence of an administrative agreement with the Fund;
  • c. Employees of an employer who is granted a waiver or suspension of coverage by the Fund under RA 9679;
  • d. Leaders and members of religious groups;
  • e. A member separated from employment, local or abroad, or ceased to be self-employed but would like to continue paying his/her personal contribution;
  • f. Public officials or employees who are not covered by the GSIS such as barangay officials; and
  • g. Filipinos naturalized in other countries.

How much is the monthly contribution?

The contribution rates for all mandatorily-covered members, including OFWs, are as follows:

The maximum monthly compensation used in computing the employee contributions is currently set at P5,000. This means that the maximum member contribution and employer counterpart per month are both currently P100.

What are the benefits of Pag-IBIG Membership?

The Fund offers its members the following benefits:

1. Savings
2. Short Term Loans
3. Access to Housing Programs

What is the Provident Savings Program?

The Pag-IBIG provident savings program is a fast, easy and affordable way for a member to save for his future needs. ember to save for his future needs.

The contributions that a member makes together with the employer counterpart are credited to his Total Accumulated Value (TAV). A member contributing two percent of his monthly compensation doubles his savings immediately with the addition of the employer counterpart contribution. Meanwhile, a member contributing one percent of his monthly compensation triples his savings as the employer counterpart remains at two percent.

Aside from being fully guaranteed by the national government, members’ contributions are deducted from the gross income prior to computation of the income tax.

Members’ savings earn annual dividends that are also tax-free. The dividend rate varies depending on the net income of the Fund at yearend.

When can a member withdraw his savings?

A member may withdraw his TAV or savings after 20 years of membership with the Fund and after having made a total of 240 monthly contributions.

A member may also withdraw his savings under any of the following valid grounds:

a. Retirement

• Early retirement at age 45
• Optional retirement at age 60
• •Mandatory retirement at age 65

b. Permanent departure from the country
c. Permanent or total physical disability
d. Insanity
e. Termination from service by reason of health
f. Death of the member
g. Optional withdrawal at 10 or 15 continuous years of membership

• A member who registered under RA7742 may be allowed to withdraw his TAV after 10 or 15 years of continuous membership.

• A member who registered under RA9679 may be allowed to withdraw his TAV after 15 years of continuous membership.

h. Other causes as may be provided by the Board of Trustees

What Short-Term Loans are available to the member?

Pag-IBIG Fund’s Short-term loan programs are meant to provide assistance to its members, provided they are active and have made at least 24 monthly contributions.

There are two short-term loan programs that a member may avail of when the need arises. The Multi-Purpose Loan Program was designed to help finance members’ immediate medical, educational or livelihood needs; minor home improvement, purchase of appliance and furniture, and other related needs.

Meanwhile, the Calamity Loan Program is extended to members who have been affected by a recent calamity, as proven by a declaration of calamity in their area of residence.

What Housing Programs are available for members?

An eligible member may avail of a housing loan under either the End-User Financing Program or the Magaang Pabahay, Disenteng Buhay Program.

Under the End-User Financing Program, a member may avail of a loan to finance any of the following (Circular 247):

a. Purchase of a fully developed lot not exceeding one 1,000 square meters, which should be within a residential area;
b. Purchase of a residential house and lot, townhouse or condominium unit, inclusive of a parking slot. The unit may be:

• Old or brand new;
• A property mortgaged with the Fund; or
• •An acquired asset, which is disposed of through sealed public bidding, negotiated sale, or the Rent-to-Own Program.

c. Construction or completion of a residential unit on a lot owned by the member;
d. Home improvement, i.e. any alteration in an existing residential unit intended by a homeowner to be a permanent integral part of the property, which will enhance its durability and material value;
e. Refinancing of an existing mortgage with an institution acceptable to the Fund, provided that:

• The loan is not in default within the 12 months prior to the date of application;
• The said loan has a repayment history of at two years with the original mortgagee

f. Combination of loan purposes, which shall be limited to the following:

• Purchase of a fully developed lot not exceeding 1,000square meters and construction of a residential unit thereon;

• Purchase of a residential unit, whether old or new, with home improvement;
• Refinancing of an existing mortgage with home improvement;
• • Refinancing of an existing mortgage, specifically a lot loan, with construction of a residential unit thereon.

Under the Magaang Pabahay, Disenteng Buhay Program, a qualified member may purchase an acquired asset of the Fund either in cash or through a housing loan at very reasonable prices. A buyer who purchases an acquired asset in cash is entitled to a 20% discount on the property’s sales price, while a buyer who purchases through a housing loan is entitled to a 15% discount on the property’s sales price.

Who are eligible to avail of a housing loan under the End-User Financing Program?

To qualify for a Pag-IBIG housing loan, a member must satisfy the following requirements:

a. Must be a member under the Pag-IBIG I for at least 24 months, as evidenced by the remittance of at least 24 monthly contributions at the time of loan application.
b. Not more than 65 years old at the date of loan application and must be insurable; provided further that he is not more than 70 years old at loan maturity;
c. Has the legal capacity to acquire and encumber real property;
d. Has passed satisfactory background/credit and employment/business checks conducted by the developer and the Pag-IBIG Fund;
e. Has no outstanding Pag-IBIG housing loan, either as a principal borrower or co-borrower;
f. Has not availed of a Pag-IBIG housing loan that was foreclosed, cancelled, bought back due to default, or subjected to dacion en pago, which shall include cases where the borrower is no longer interested to pursue the loan and surrenders the property;
g. May have an outstanding Pag-IBIG multi-purpose loan but which is updated in payments at the time of loan application. A member whose multi-purpose loan is in arrears shall be required to pay his arrears over the counter to update his account.

source : General Organization for Social Insurance

Reporting the Injury

The injured person or who may act in his behalf shall inform the employer within seven days form the date of the injury, recurrence, complication or the detection of the decease. The employer or who may act on his behalf shall inform the concerned GOSI field office of the occupation injury which the first medical aids have not been sufficient. This shall be within three days of his knowledge or report of the injury. Form No. (10/Occ.) shall be used in this case.

Injury

The injury resulted in an accident which happened to the insured person while conducting his work or as a result of such job, or an accident accrued while commuting from his home to the employer place of work. In addition to the accident which sustained while the worker goes to or from the place he eats in or prays at, or the injury that was sustained by the worker in his transportations while performing his job which the employer has assign the worker to do. The diseases which had been proven that were sustained as a result of conducting the work of the insured person shall be considered as an occupational injury, also, the diseases which are mentioned in the occupational diseases table.

Occupational Disease

A disease that may be cause by occupation and not caused of any other factors outside the insured person's work, provided that this disease is mentioned in the occupational diseases table where such diseases are listed and limited.

Period of Treatment
The duration extending from the date on which the injury occurred and the injured person was hospitalize to the date on which he is recovered, stabilized condition, determining disability or he dies. This period shall include the period of inpatient and visiting outpatient clinics.

Treatment Instructions

The instructions issued by the Medical Authority to be followed by the injured worker where GOSI may have the right to suspend some entitlements if he fails to abide by such instruction.

Date of Determining Disability

The date on which the concerned medical board determines as the end of treating the injured person and considering his condition stable or disable.

Assessing Disability Degree

It is determining the percentage of disability resulting in full incapability to work. It is a percentage assessed by the medical committees in accordance with the disability which the worker had sustained, whether it was physical, mental or psychological disability resulting from the injury. This shall be on the basis of the disability percentage table.

Re-assessing Disability Degree

The insured person will be subject to periodical medical examination during the five following years of providing the benefit where this period will be under re-assessment of disability degree whether in increase, decrease or remain as it is. Assessing the degree of the disability percentage shall be determined by the concerned medical committees according to disability percentage table.

Complication and Recurrence

It is the return of injury symptoms which were in the process of healing or aggravation. This shall be the bases on which the injured person have the right to be subjected once again for examination in order to reassess the disability degree. Complications and recurrences shall be considered an original occupational injury.

Daily Allowance for Injury

It is the cash amount payable to the insured person during the period of interruption of employment as a result of the injury. It shall amounts 100% of the wage, or decreased to 75% if he is under treatment paid by GOSI. This allowance shall continue to the date of recovery or determining disability or death.

Lump Sum Compensation for Injury

Payment which is entitled to the injured insured person for one time in case of not meeting the requirements of monthly benefit, whereas the disability percentage is 1% or more but not exceed 50%.

Total Permanent Occupational Disability

Disability that prevents the insured person totally and permanently from pursuing any work or job which provides with income, whereas such disability amounts 100%. This shall be estimated by the concerned medical committees in GOSI.

Partial Permanent Occupational Disability

Disability afflicted by the insured person resulted from an occupational injury or disease, and may lower his capability to earn his livings. This percentage may equal or exceed 50% to not more than 100% and the benefit or compensation due may be estimated to this percentage or the percentage of the total permanent disability benefit.
Non-occupational Disability The disability resulted from a disease or accident which may not has been included under the description of an occupational injury. The concern medical committees may estimate this disability whereas the injured person can not earn at least 1/3 of his previous wage because of his medical condition whereas such condition may last for a period no less than six months.

The Injured

The insured person covered under the Occupation Hazards Branch (OHB) that was exposed to an occupational accident or disease that were listed among the defined limited diseases with mentioned terms opposite each disease.

Benefit

Due monthly payment payable to the injured person for the permanent total or partial disability that the degree of such disability could reach the limit provided by the law (50% to 100%) or payable to the survivors in case of death because of the injury when implementing OHB.

Assistant of Others

The amount added to the allowance which equals 50% of its value in cases insured person is in need of assistant and help of others in regular basis to perform his daily live. The medical committees shall determine wither the insured person needs such assistant and help, provided that this shall not exceed SR. 3,500.

Pension

It is monthly payments payable to the insured person for reasons of retirement or non-occupational disability. It is also payable to the survivors in case of death when implementing Annuities Branch.

Refund Compensation

The amount payable one time to the insured person in case terms of pension entitlements are not met.

Pension Calculations

The way which the pension is determined, by multiplying one fortieth of the average monthly wage subject to contribution during the last two years of service by the number of contribution years. The pension must be not exceed (100%) of that average.

Qualifying Age for Pension

It is the age of 60 that was determined by the social insurance law for the entitlement of retirement pension so long the period of service required is available.

Discontinuing the Pension

Discontinuing pension made by GOSI for absence of payment conditions. The payment of pension will resume when such lawfully conditions are satisfied.

Suspending Pension Payments

Temporary suspension of payable pension by GOSI due to the pensioner refused to comply with the instruction issued to beneficiary, such as refusing to be re-examined to re-assessment of disability or not fulfilling required procedures for payment. This shall be reactivated when such procedures are met.

Basic Wage

It is the total income received by the mandated insured person as cash return for performing the original duties whether they were strict to a period of time, outcomes or both. The basic wage shall not include provided allowance according to the kind of job, level of hazard or place of job, paid for additional working hours or for other reasons. Also, not including annual bonuses, grants or other in kind benefits. The basic wage shall include commissions, percentage of sales and profits whether the basic wage was limited to such additions or was added to a steady wage.
Allowances provided to the insured person by the employer

This shall be cash housing allowance and in kind housing allowance. The cash housing allowance is an estimated agreed amount between the employer and the insured person. On the other hand, the in kind housing allowance which is subject to contribution deductions will be estimated with what is equivalent to the basic wage for two months.

Occupational Hazards Branch Contribution

Amounts paid by the employer for all Saudi and non-Saudi workers on a 2% basis of monthly wage applied to contribution. These payments shall be submitted to GOSI every month.

Insured Person

Every person covered under the social insurance scheme whether a man or a woman.

Establishment

Place where the employer conducts business or determine as a place of work. This place carries the name of the employers, the trade name of the activity and the workers perform their jobs whereas such workers are covered by the social insurance law.

Entitled Person

The remaining family member alive after the death of the insured person, pensioner or the person whose was entitled to benefit. The family member that is considered by law to be entitled to the pension includes:

• The Son: son of the insured person as long as his age does not exceed 21 years. If he is studying, the age of entitlement shall continue to the age of 26 years, there is no limit of age regarding the disabled son.
• The Daughter: the daughter of the insured person until she is married.
• The Brother: the full brother or the brother by father or by mother of the insured person which was supported by the insured person to the date of the insured person death under the same conditions of the Son.
• The Sister: the full sister or the sister by father or by mother of the insured person which was supported by the insured person to the date of the insured person death under the same conditions of the Daughter.
• The Father: the father of the insured person which was supported by the insured person to the date of the insured person death, subject to that he is considered unable to work or his age is above 60 years and is not in employment.
• Sons and Daughters of the Deceased Brother: the sons and daughters of the insured person’s son where their father has died while the insured person was alive, subject to support conditions are available to the date when the insured person died and under the same conditions of the Son and Daughter.
• The Mother: the mother of the insured person, provided that she was supported by the insured person.
• The Widow: the wife or wives of the insured person upon the death of the insured person the revocable divorced woman when the death of the insured person was before the end of such applicable period. The widow is entitled even if she is in employment under the social insurance law and she has the right to have both of entitled pension as a beneficiary from her husband’s pension and her work income or pension without any limitation.
• The Widower: the man who his insured wife died if he is unable to work until his disability recovers.
• The Grandfather and Grandmother: shall be under the same conditions for the Father and Mother.

Support

The family member shall be considered supported by the insured person or the pensioner if such member is supported by the insured person in any basic living expenses.

Marriage Grant

The grant paid to the widow, daughter, son or sister entitled to a pension or allowance in case of marriage for one time only. It shall amount 18 times of her/his share. Payment of this grant will discontinue on the following month of the entitled person marriage.

Death Grant

Grant paid by GOSI equals three months of the entitled pension/benefit for a maximum of (SR. 10,000.00) and shall be due in the event of the insured person death for reasons of an occupational injury, the death of a working insured person where such insured person has a period of service entitling the survivors for pension or in the event of the pensioner death where the pension was due for reasons of retirement or non-occupational disability.

Contribution share

Contributions which are lawfully paid by each of the employer and the insured person according to the percentage rate determined by the law whereas the employer pays the total contributions due to him and the insured persons working for him. The insured persons shares will be deducted from their wages in the periods determined by law. The contribution share in Annuities Branch is 18%, whereas 9% is paid by the employer and 9% is paid by the insured person, also the contribution share in OHB is 2% paid only by the employer.

Insurance Card

Card provided to the insured person caring the registration number for social insurance identification purposes that prove the insured person registration in the scheme.

Registration

It is the procedures done by GOSI for the implementation of the social insurance law regarding registering employers and their insured workers.

Employer

Is any natural or legal person employing one or more paid workers, regardless of wage.

Objection

Statement of the employer, insured person, pensioner or the person entitled to benefit or compensation, or any family member stating his/her un-convention of a decision made by any authority in GOSI and claiming for reconsideration. Such action shall be submitted within the determined period by law for this objection.

Contribution Number

It is the fixed registration number for the insured person in GOSI.

Insurance Entitlements

Benefits and advantages provided by the social insurance law due from GOSI to insured persons or their family members provided that entitlement conditions are to be satisfied.

Primary Medical Board

Committee assigned by GOSI to discuss medical matters in accordance with the social insurance law. Such board shall determine the disability degree, the disease caused by an occupation or the status of non-occupational disability of the insured person. This board shall consist of at least two physicians of whom one of them represents GOSI, if possible.

Appeal Medical Board

Committee formed of specialized physicians selected from high medical authority to renew Primary Medical Board decisions for appeal cases in the event of objection by the insured person of GOSI to decisions made by the later boards. The Appeal Medical Board shall consist of three physicians minimum.

Inspector

Officer elected by GOSI authorized among its staff to inspect the implementation of the social insurance law and procedures, such staff members are vested with legal powers in the limitation of conducting their duties.

source: General Organization for Social Insurance

Family members of the insured person who had died in employment by reason of an occupational injury are entitled, according to the Social Insurance Law implemented in the Kingdom that was issued under the Royal Decree No. M/33 dated 03/09/1421 H., payment of lump sum compensation for the injury sustained. In order for the General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI) to pay rightful entitlements, the following procedures are to be completed:

1. Fill-out form (31/Annuities), sent by GOSI.
2. Provide the document or deed of entitled survivors, or a certified copy of this document or deed.
3. Enclose marriage contract, for widow(s) of the deceased insured person certified by official authority.
4. Enclosed birth certificate for sons and daughters of the deceased insured person.
5. Enclosed birth certificate of brothers and sisters of the deceased insured person if they were supported by the insured person at the time of his / her death.
6. School certificates of sons and daughters of the deceased insured person which are still studying after they exceeded the age of 21 years.
7. If the insured person, prior to his / her death, was supporting his / her parents or grandparents that were unable to work, GOSI should be provided with a certified medical report from two physicians working in a government or university hospital stating the concerned person medical condition and estimating his / her age, along with explanation of the medical reasons of inability to work. In case they are above 60 years of age, no reports are needed to be enclosed.
8. Provide a document or certificate issued by a legal court, notary public or solicitor for each parent, grandparent, brother or sister if they were supported by the deceased insured person at the time of his/her death.

Knowing that, claims for allowances after the expiry of one year shall not be accepted, also claiming for the remaining benefits shall not be accepted after the expiry of five years from the date on which the entitlement to benefit arises when implementing Article 57 of the Law. The following should be taking into consideration:

1. All correspondence should be sent directly to the following address: General Organization for Social Insurance, Riyadh Region Office, Overseas Benefits Department, P. O. Box 2952, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia.
2. Mentioning GOSI's social insurance number and the file number in all correspondence sent to GOSI.
3. Information you provide in form (31/Annuties) and attached documents should be true and identical to what has been mentioned above.
4. Certifying all documents from the Saudi embassy or consulate located in the home country of the claimant.
5. Promptly sending requirements ensures speedup procedures of payment.

source : GOSI Website http://www.gosi.gov.sa

What is the status of pensions and benefits previously paid before the implementation of the new law?

The insured person or entitled family members receiving, as of the date of implementing this law, due benefits or pensions shall be treated in accordance with the social insurance law as follows:

1. If any pension or benefit received by the insured person is less than SR. 1,500, such amount shall be raised to this limit.
2. If such amount of pension or benefit divided after the death or the insured person between survivors was less than SR. 1,500, such amount shall be raised to this limit and shares will be recalculated in accordance to the new amount.
3. If any share of a family member is less than SR. 300, such amount shall be raised to this limit, provided that the total shares of survivors do not exceed the limit of SR. 1,500, per month or the average wage that pension or benefit calculations were base on, whichever is the higher.

Implementing the previous paragraphs shall be on the first day of the following months of putting the new law into force.

Are there any specified dates for submitting claims for payments of social insurance entitlements?

Claims for transportation, lodging allowances and deceased's family grant shall not be accepted after the expiry of one year, and claims for remaining benefits shall not be accepted after the expiry of five years from the date on which the entitlement to benefits arises, unless there is an excuse accepted to GOSI.

Is the employer committed to pay compensation to the injured insured person who suffered from an occupational injury, or to pay the survivors for such injury?

Basically, GOSI is obligated to pay the lawful benefits to the insured person or family members and the employer is not committed to pay unless the injury occurred intentionally by the employer, due to an obvious mistake, not complying to rules and regulations regarding healthy and safe working environment.
In case this is proven correct, the insured person or entitled survivors may return to the employer for any claims or rights given by Islamic Sari'ah or other applicable rules implied in Saudi Arabia. GOSI will pay in any case all the amounts of benefits and pensions due by law.

What are the amounts payable to survivors of the insured person?

GOSI pays to survivors of the insured person a grant of three months to a maximum of SR. 10,000 in any of the following cases:

1. In case of death of the insured person while performing his job and has the qualifying period of service for pension.
2. In case of death of the insured person because of an occupational injury, or in case of death of a person who was entitled a benefit for reasons of total or partial permanent disability.
3. In case of death of retired pensioner or a pensioner for non-occupational disability.

Are there certain provisions regarding benefit payment under OHB for non-Saudi?

For non-Saudi injured person, it has been decided by law to replace the right of benefit payment with a lump sum compensation payment. There will be no right to apply for another payment after that. This shall be done according to the following rules:

1. 1. In case the injury resulted in 100% total disability to the insured person, such person shall be entitled to a lump sum compensation amounting 84 months of the benefit amount to a maximum of SR. 330,000. For example, the wage of that insured person is SR. 4,000 and received a disability percentage of 100%, the compensation shall amount: 4,000 x 84 = SR. 336,000. Whereas this amount has exceeded the maximum limit provided by law, this amount shall be reduced to SR. 330,000.
2. If disability degree is (50% - 99%), partial disability, the lump sum compensation shall amount 66 months of the benefit amount to a maximum of SR. 165,000. For example, the insured person’s wage is SR. 2,000, and has a disability degree of 55%, the compensation shall amount: 2,000 x 55 x 60 = SR. 66,000.
3. In case of the insured person died while performing his job because of an occupational injury, his survivors shall receive lump sum compensation equals 84 months and will be divided equally.

Note that lump sum compensation payment ends all right for the insured person or survivors due from GOSI, taking into consideration that such payment shall not exceed, in this case, the sum of SR. 330,000.

It has been mentioned many times the words “benefit” and “pension”, what is the deference between them?

The pension is the amount which is paid monthly under Annuities Branch, while the benefit is paid monthly under OHB. Pension and benefit can be added together.

What happens in the event of discontinuing one of the survivors share?

In case of suspending a share of one family member for any reason – such as death, reaching the maximum limit for entitlement for boys, marriage of girls – this share shall be divided to the remaining survivors, provided that the total shares do not exceed the average wage which calculation basis of the benefit were built upon or the amount of SR. 1,500 for each share.

When does the injured insured person’s family members are entitled to payment of their benefits in case the injured person died, and what are their shares?

In case of the death of the injured person who was entitled to a partial or total disability benefit, or in the event of the insured person death while working as a result of an occupational injury, the survivors are entitled to the following:

• Full benefit, in case the survivors are three persons or more and shall be divided equally.
• 75% of the benefit, in case the survivors are two persons and shall be divided equally.
• 50% of the benefit, in case there was only one survivor.

Provided that the share of any survivor shall not be less than SR. 300 and the total shares do not exceed the average wage which the basis of calculation of the benefit was built upon, or SR. 1,500 per month, whichever is higher. If the total exceeds this amount, each share of survivors shall be deducted equally to any of the said two limits.

What happens if the injured person that was entitled an allowance or benefit before he had suffered a new injury?

Determining the status of the insured person who was entitled to a benefit for a partial disability that had suffered a new injury as follows:

1. In case the person who was entitled to a benefit for a partial disability had suffered a new injury resulting in a degree of disability, the injured person shall be entitled to a new benefit calculated an the basis of the total injuries sustained by this person, i.e. total percentage of the disabilities, provided that the total does not exceed 100% of disability. The benefit shall be calculated on the basis of the average wage of the first injury or the previous average wages of the month prior the second injury, whichever is higher.
2. In case the injured person received lump sum compensation and had suffered from another injury resulting in a disability degree, whereas the total percentage became 50% or more, the injured person shall be entitled to a benefit according to what has been mentioned previously, with deducting the previous compensation amount on a 36 regular basis. Collecting such deductions shall stop in case of discontinuing benefit payment or death of the injured person.
3. Degree of disability resulting from different injuries shall be added together even without such addition the injured person may not be entitled to pension, whenever this may increase the amount of lump sum compensation.

What does the injured Saudi and non-Saudi insured person entitled to if the degree of disability was less than 50%?

If the disability degree for an injury is less than 50%, the insured person is entitled to a lump sum compensation equals 60 times the monthly benefit for partial disability, whereas the age of this insured person did not exceed 40 years at the date when the injury occurred.

Example: (age 39 – disability degree 32%), for this case, if the average wage is SR. 1,000, the lump sum compensation shall be:
32 x 1000 x 60 = SR. 19,200

If the age was more than 40 years, the compensation shall be decreased to the number of monthly benefit equivalent to the number of years which are above 40. If we assume in the previous example that the age of the insured person is 47 years, the compensation shall be decreased 7 times the monthly benefit:

32 x 1000 x 53 = SR. 16,900

Provided that the compensation shall not be less than 36 times the monthly benefit and does not exceed the amount SR. 165,000. For the interest of the insured person, the fraction of any year shall be considered as a whole year if such fraction year has completed six months or more. Fewer fractions shall be discarded.

What can disabled injured person receive when the assistant of other is needed to perform daily affairs?

If the concerned medical committee decided that there is a need for the injured person to be assisted by other to do his daily affairs, such injured person shall has the right to have the assistance of others benefit by 50% of that allowance to a maximum of SR. 3,500 per month.

What is the meaning of the average wage where the benefit is calculated on its basis, and what is considered if the injured person did not has the required period of service with the employer which the injury occurred while working there?

Average wage which the benefit is calculated upon means the total wages applied to contribution paid in the last three previous months at the time when the injury had occurred. If the injured person did not work at all or had worked for part time for the employer which the injury occurred while working there, the average wage will be calculated by taking one third of the total wages that could have been contributed if the injured person would have worked on the same conditions for the last employer for a period of three months taken into consideration when calculating the benefit.

When does the right for daily allowance payments end?

1. The injured person’s right for payment of daily allowances end in the following cases:

• In the event of the injured person has gain the ability to work and completely recovered from the injury. This shall be determined by a decision from the treatment body or the concerned medical committee.
• When the concerned medical committee decided to end the medical treatment for the injury person after discharge from the hospital and his condition became stable with a result of permanent disability sustained by that person, whether it is partial or total disability.
• In case of the insured person death.

2. The right to be entitled to daily allowance does not end in case the work relationship had been terminated or suspended for any reasons.

When does payment of daily allowance for an injured person may be suspended?

It is permitted by law to suspend the allowance when the injured insured person refuses to comply with the medical instructions which is required for such cases or has refused to be presented to a medical examination. This shall be made by a decision of the director of the concerned field office and must be on the bases of a medical report from the treatment party or GOSI physician.

Is it allowed to combine daily allowance with wage along with benefit?

The law does not allow the injured person to combine the daily allowance with the wage. In case it has been found that the injured person had worked for a wage, whatever it amounts during such period the injured person was paid the allowance, GOSI shall has the right to redeem what the injured person has gain unlawfully.
However, it is allowed to combine daily allowance with due benefit from a previous injury sustained by the injured insured person.

What is the cash value that is received by the injured person during the period of temporary inability to work?

• In case the injured person is temporary disable from work caused by an occupational injury reported during applicable time frames, the injured person is entitled to a daily allowance for each day including weekends and official holidays in such period of disability to work. GOSI shall pay this sum which amounts 100% of the wage applied to contribution  and may be reduced to 75% for all the period of hospitalizing the injured person as an inpatient in any medical center or hospital.
• Determining temporary disability is made by a medical report issued from a specialized medical body, provided that the person who shall be assigned for an allowance will be presented for a medical examination by a committee or physician whenever the concerned medical committee in GOSI asks for.

What are the benefits entitled to the insured person who was injured?

There are two kinds of benefits:

1. Benefits in kind: include medical care for deferment cases that may be needed in an injury.
2. Cash compensation: includes the following entitlement:

• Daily allowances for temporary disability to work when the injured person has become disabled temporarily as a result of the injury.
• Monthly benefits and lump sum compensation for total or partial permanent disability resulting from an injury.
• Monthly benefits for the family members of the deceased insured person.
• Grant to the family of the deceased insured person or the family of the insured person who was entitled to a benefit in case of his death.

What is the definition of the occupational injury in the law?

In Article 27 of the law, the occupational injury is defined as:

1. Any accident suffered by the insured person during performance or by reason of work shall be considered an employment injury.
2. They shall also be considered an employment injury any accident suffered by the insured person on his way from his dwelling to his workplace and back, or on his way from his workplace to the place where he usually takes his meal or gives his prayer and back.
3. The same shall also apply to accidents suffered by the insured person during movements he makes for the purpose of doing an assignment required by the employer.
4. The diseases established to be caused by work shall be considered as employment injury.

What is the contribution portion in OHB by law?

It is mentioned in Article 18 of the law that OHB percentage of contribution is 2% of the applicable wage paid by the employer only.

To who does Annuities Branch is compulsory applied?

Annuities Branch is compulsory applied to Saudi workers whom are working under Labor and Workers Law and working in state and Simi-state bodies on wage provisionally.

To who does OHB is applied by law?

OHB is compulsory applied to all Saudi and non-Saudi workers.

Who are the family members that are entitled by law for payment?

Article (2/8) of the law specified the family members and qualifying conditions for entitlement in the following cases:

1. "Widow of the deceased insured person" is the wife of the deceased insured person at the time of his death.
2. "Widower of the deceased female insured person" is the one whose insured wife died and is suffering an earning incapacity for as long as he is incapacitated . He is deemed to be legally incapacitated if, upon the death of his wife, he was over sixty years of age and unemployed.
3. "Sons" are the sons of the deceased insured person who are under twenty one years of age until they complete such age, which age limit is extendible to twenty six if they are pursuing their studies in an educational or vocational institution, and no age limit is set as long as they are suffering an earning incapacity by reason of chronic disease or infirmity
4. "Daughters" are the daughters of the deceased insured person until they marry.
5. "Grandsons and grand-daughters" are those whose father (the son of the insured person) died during the lifetime of the insured person, subject to the same conditions prescribed in respect of the sons and daughters, provided that they have been supported by the insured person until the date of his death.
6. "Father" is the father of the deceased insured person who was supported by the insured person until he died, provided that he is suffering a loss of earning capacity, and he shall be deemed to be legally incapacitated to earn if he was over sixty and not working at the time of the death of his son.
7. "Mother" is the mother of the deceased insured person who was supported by the insured person until the date of his death.
8. "Grandfather" and “Grandmother” is the grandfather and grandmother of the deceased insured person who were supported by the insured person until the date of his death, subject to the same conditions applicable to the father and mother.
9. "Brothers and sisters" are the brothers and sisters of the insured person subject to the same conditions provided for in respect of the sons and daughters so long as they were supported by the insured person until the time of his death.

What is the meaning of the word “insured person” mentioned in the Law?

The insured person is any person covered under the social insurance law, whether a man or a woman. He/she may be registered voluntarily or compulsory.

1. The compulsory insured person is any worker has had contractual relationship with one employer or more for carrying out a work primarily within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in consideration of a wage, regardless of the nature, form or duration of such relationship or of the amount or kind of the paid wage, performing such job must be mainly inside the Kingdom. Only the Saudi worker may perform such duties outside the Kingdom for an employer that has a main office inside the Kingdom. The latter worker is subject to Annuities Branch Coverage only.
2. Voluntary insured person are Saudis permitted by law to have the right to benefit from Annuities Branch, such as free lancers, self employed persons, person corporation with others in a commercial, industrial or agricultural activities, or in services fields or craftsmen. Also, Saudi workers who work abroad without any work relation with an employer who has a main office inside the Kingdom or persons who their contributions in Annuities Branch had stopped and wishes to continue registration.

source : GOSI website www.gosi.gov.sa

How to Avoid Illegal Recruitment

1. Do not apply at recruitment agencies not licensed by POEA.
   
2. Do not deal with licensed agencies without job orders.
   
3. Do not deal with any person who is not an authorized representative of a licensed agency.
   
4. Do not transact business outside the registered address of the agency. If recruitment is conducted in the province, check if the agency has a provincial recruitment authority
   
5. Do not pay more than the allowed placement fee. It should be equivalent to one month salary, exclusive of documentation and processing costs. 
   
6. 6.Do not pay any placement fee unless you have a valid employment contract and an official receipt. 
   
7. 7.Do not be enticed by ads or brochures requiring you to reply to a Post Office (P.O.) Box, and to enclose payment for processing of papers.
8. Do not deal with training centers and travel agencies, which promise overseas employment. 
   
9. 9.Do not accept a tourist visa. 
   
10. Do not deal with fixers.

What are the penalties for illegal recruitment?

(a) Any person found guilty of illegal recruitment shall suffer the penalty of imprisonment of not less than six (6) years and one (1) day but not more than twelve (12) years and a fine not less than two hundred thousand pesos (P200,000.00) nor more than five hundred thousand pesos (P500,000.00).

(b) The penalty of life imprisonment and a fine of not less than five hundred thousand pesos (P500,000.00) nor more than one million pesos (P1,000,000.00) shall be imposed if illegal recruitment constitutes economic sabotage as defined herein.

Provided, however, that the maximum penalty shall be imposed if the person illegally recruited is less than eighteen (18) years of age or committed by a non-licensee or non-holder of authority.

How to identify an illegal recruiter?

Kilalanin ang illegal recruiter!

Ang illegal recruiter ay:

• agad naniningil ng placement fee o anumang kaukulang bayad nang walang resibo

• nangangako ng madaliang pag-alis patungo sa ibang bansa

• nagre-require agad ng medical examination o training kahit wala pang malinaw na employer o kontrata

• nakikipag-transaksiyon sa mga aplikante sa mga pampublikong lugar tulad ng restaurant, mall, atbpa. at hindi sa opisina ng lisensyadong ahensiya

• bahay-bahay kung mag-recruit ng mga aplikante

• hndi nagbibigay ng sapat na impormasyon tungkol sa ina-aplayang trabaho

• nagsasabi na may kausap na direct employer at ang mga aplikante ay di na kailangang dumaan sa POEA

• nangangako ng mabilis na pag-alis ng aplikante gamit ang tourist o visit visa

• walang maipakitang employment contract o working visa

• nagpapakilala na empleyado ng isang lisensyadong recruitment agency ngunit walang maipakitang ID

• nagpapakilala na konektado sa isang travel agency o training center

• nanghihikayat sa mga aplikante na mangalap ng iba pang aplikante upang mapabilis ang pagpapaalis

• walang maibigay na sapat at tamang impormasyon tungkol sa sarili tulad ng buong pangalan o address

• nangangako na ang mga dokumento ay ipapasok sa POEA para mai-process (lalo na sa kaso ng EPS-Korea)

• hihikayatin ka dahil nakapag-paalis na ng isa o higit pa gamit ay tourist visa

To ensure smooth Customs clearance, please read these guidelines throughly.

All persons and baggage are subject to a search at any time. (Sections 2210 & 2212, Customs Law)

General Provisions

All articles, when imported from any foreign country into the Philippines, shall be subject to duty and tax upon each importation, even though previously exported from the Philippines, except as otherwise specifically provided in the Customs Code or in other laws. (Section 100, TCCP)

Prohibited and Regulated Articles

The unlawful importation of prohibited articles (i.e. marijuana, cocaine or any other narcotics or synthetic drugs, firearms and explosives and parts thereof, gun replicas, obscene or immoral articles, adulterated or misbranded articles of food or drugs, gambling outfits and paraphernalia, used clothing and rags - R.A. 4653, elephant / ivory tusk products) or those which violate the Intellectual Property Rights Code, R.A. 8293 (i.e., DVDs, VCDs, other imitation products) and regulated items (i.e., transceivers, controlled chemicals / substances / precursors) regardless of quantity constitute a violation of Philippine Customs Laws and may subject you to criminal procesuctions and / or fines and penalties.

Agriculture and Quarantine Regulations

Agriculture quarantine restricts the entry of animals, fish and plant produts or their by-products (such as meat, eggs, birds, fruits, etc.).  Transport of endangered species and their by-products is also restricted / prohibited by CITES / DENR regulations.  Likewise, export of such products / by-products must be referred to quarantine officers to ensure compliance with Philippine regulations and requirements of country of destination.  Failure to obtain prior import and / or export permit from the Philippine Department of Agriculture together with corresponding health sanitary or phytosanitary certificate from country of origin and to declare the same may result to seizure, fines and / or penalties.

Regulated Articles That Require Import Permit / Clearances:

Articles that need import / export permits and / or clearances and government agencies that issue them:

Currency Regulations

It is illegal for any incoming or outgoing passenger to bring in or out Philippine Pesos in excess of P10,000.00 without prior authoirty from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.  Any violation of this rule may lead to its seizure and civil penalties and / or criminal prosecution. (BSP Circular 98-1995)

The transportation of foreign currency or monetary instruments is legal.  However, the carrying of foreign currency in excess of US$10,000.00 or its equivalent in other foreign currencies must be declared to a Customs Officer or the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.  VIolation of this rule may lead to seizure and sanctions, fines and / or penalties.

Accompanied Baggage Intended as Donation

Relief, charitable and / or humanitarian organizations intending to donate for free distribution or extend free medical, dental or any other services to the less privileged must coordinate with the Philippine Department of Social Welfare and Development, through the Philippine embassies and / or consulates abroad, for purposes of clearance, prior to actual departure.  Donations must be covered by a Deed of Donation and Deed of Acceptance, approved by the Department of Finance.

Non-Resident Foreigners

Passengers who inted to bring back to their place of residence abroad any dutiable article must inform the inspecting Customs Officer of said intention.  In this case, the passenger may be required to accomplish a re-exportation commitment form duly secured by a cash bond deposit equal to the ascertained duty and tax on the article, refundable upon departure of the passenger with the article, for which a corresponding Official Receipt will be issued.

Exemptions / Duty-Free Concessions

Adult Passengers:

• Two (2) reams of cigarette or two (2) tins of tobacco
• Two (2) bottles of liquor or wine not exceeding one (1) liter per bottle.

Balikbayan and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are entitled to a Ten Thousand (10,000,00) Peso duty exemption on their USED personal and household effects.  Any excess thereof is subject to an ad valorem duty (Executive Order 206).  In addition, OFWs are entitled to duty and tax-free privileges on their USED appliances limited to one of every kind provided the total value does not exceed PHP10,000.00.  Any excess is subject to duty and tax.

The amount of duty to be paid shall be determined by the Customs Officer. Please have all your receipts and / or supporting documents ready for presentation to the Customs Officer.

Philippine Duty-Free Shopping

All passengers arriving from abroad can enjoy a one-time duty-free shopping privilege within the prescribed number of days from the date of arrival, upon presentation of a valid passport, flight ticket and boarding pass.  Philippine duty-free shops are retail establishments licensed by the government to sell duty and tax-free merchandise to cater to travelers and balikbayans.  Frequent travelers can enjoy up to US$10,000.00 worth of duty-free shopping privileges in a given calendar year.

However, duty-free shopping is subject to certain conditions and limitations.  Purchases must be made in US dollars or its equivalent in Philippine Peso and other acceptable foreign currencies.  This privilege is not transferable (except for kabuhayan shopping).  Balikbayan privileges can only be availed of once a year.  Minors are not allowed to buy cigarettes, liquors, wines, electronics, and home appliances.  Tourists buying home appliances and electronics are subject to duties and taxes.

Balikbayan Categories

1. Filipino citizen who has been continuously out of the Philippines for a period of at least one (1) year from the date of last departure;
2. A Filipino overseas worker (OFW); or
3. Former FIlipino with foreign passport and members of his family (i.e. spouse and children) who are traveling with him.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Your Customs Declaration

All arriving passengers are required to accomplish a Customs Declaration from (BC Form 117) given on board the carrying aircraft.  If traveling as one family, one declaration is sufficient.

Arrivaing passengers are required to declare all articles purchased or acquired abroad, indicating the quantity and its total acquisition price.  If unsure of what to declare, please consult any Customs Officer on duty.

WARNING:  DEATH TO DRUG TRAFFICKERS UNDER PHILIPPINE LAW (R.A. 7659)

For more information, please contact:

• The Commissioner of Customs,South Harbor, Port Area, Manila 1018 Philippines, (632) 527-4573 - Fax (632) 527-9453
• NAIA District Collector of Customs, (632) 879-6003 - Telefax (632) 819-5088
• Deputy Collector for Passenger Service, Telefax (632) 831-6262
• Chief, Arrival Operations Division, Telefax (632) 879-5185
• Click here for the Bureau of Customs Philippines website or e-mail them at arrivalcustoms@hotmail.com

WORKING VISA

• Visa application form
• Valid passport at least two years.
• Two pictures (4x6 cm. with white background)
• A certified & notarized copy of the university degree/diploma & transcript of record certified by the CHED, (Commission on Higher Education), DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) and Consulate of Saudi Embassy or PRC License for all professional work.
• NBI Clearance
• Medical Certificate sealed by a hospital accredited by Saudi Embassy.
• Training Certificate for the skilled workers
• OMA Certificate for all Muslim workers
• Valid Driving License for all Drivers
• Original Copy of visa authority & a copy visa
• If the applicant has previously worked in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia a release letter.
• Payments are made to be cash through Equitable PCI Bank in Paseo de Roxas Branch, which cost P850.00 for every working visa stamped.

BUSINESS VISA

• Visa application form
• Valid passport at least 6 months.
• Two pictures (4x6 cm. with white background)
• An original covering letter from a registered company indicating the name of Saudi Arabian company, the nature of applicants visit & length of stay . The letter must bear the company’s stamp or seal.
• An application from the sponsor in the Kingdom on the applicant’s behalf to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or an Original invitation from the company in Saudi Arabia. This letter must be signed & sealed by the company & stamped by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce.
• Payments are made to be cash through Equitable PCI Bank in Paseo de Roxas Branch, which cost of P3, 500.00 for every Business visit visa stamped.

TRANSIT VISA

• A visa application form and valid passport
• Two pictures (4x6 cm. with white background)
• A confirmed ticket reserved in and out of Saudi Arabia for at most 48 hours.
• A valid visa for the next destination.
• Transit visa gratis.

UMRAH VISA

• Submit an Umrah visa application form accompanied by a recent standard colored passport size photograph.
• Passport must be valid for a minimum period of six months.
• Medical Certificate. Children age three months to twelve years old, parents should consult their primary care doctors.
• A round trip ticket to and from Saudi Arabia with confirmed reservation must also accompany the application.
• A married couple applying for Umrah visas but who have different last names or whose children bear last name from that of their father, should attach copies of their marriage certificate and copy of their children’s birth certificate.
• Umrah visas are granted gratis.

• For those recently embraced Islam and have not previously performed Umrah or Hajj, a Certificate of Conversion to Islam is required.

HAJJ VISA

• Passport Passport or legal travel documents valid for at least 6 months and acceptable both for entry to Saudi Arabia and entry to nest destination. Passport of legal travel documents must have minimum of two blank pages.
• Photos Two recent passport photographs with white background.
• Visa application form for Hajj visas signed & stamped by the travel agency. Original or legible photocopies of the visa application forms are acceptable.
• Airline ticket Each applicant must be in possession of a non-refundable roundtrip ticket with confirmed reservations.
• Medical Certificate Children from the age of 3 months to 2 years and above must take a dose of the A/C vaccine.
• Mahram all ladies are required to travel for Hajj with a Mahram. Proof of Mahram must be submitted.  Ladies over the age of 45 can travel without Mahram with an organized group.  She must, however, submit no objection letter from her husband, son or brother, authorizing her travel for Hajj with the named group.  Such letter should be notarized with the notary public.  The Mahram should write his complete information on the application of wife and children, or any other relative whom he is traveling with.  Marriage and birth certificates issued outside of the Philippines should be translated and notarized from a certified translations office.  Male under the legal age will not be granted a Hajj visa if not accompanied by their family.
• Hajj visa is granted gratis.

• Know and obey the laws, rules and culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.
• Know the rules of your employer, respect them and always observe and uphold the terms of your employment contract.
• Prepare the original documents you would need, make many copies and have them authenticated by the DFA and the Saudi Embassy in Manila.
• Report your arrival to the Consulate. Memorize the telephone number and address of the Consulate.
• When in doubt as to any matter, ask a representative of the Consulate.
• For any grievance or complaint against your employer, a fellow Filipino or any other person or entity, approach and consult the Consulate. Escaping from your employer is a violation.
• The authorities of Saudi Arabia are the upholders of the law of the Kingdom. For any criminal and civil violation, approach and report to the authorities.
• The Consulate could only extend assistance to Filipinos within the legal guidelines of Saudi laws and regulations.
• Be mindful of and protect your health.
• Always remember that you are the representative of the Philippines and what you do or say reflects on the Philippines and the Filipino people.

Immigration formalities upon arrival

•    For male first-time visitors/workers arriving in saudi arabia, they should be met by their sponsors upon arrival to comply with immigration formalities.
•    For female visitors, they should at all times be met by their sponsors upon arrival to comply with immigration formalities.

1. Know and obey the laws, rules and culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse
2. Know the rules of your employer, respect them and always observe and uphold the terms of your employment contract.
3. Prepare the original documents you would need, make many copies and have them authenticated by the DFA and the Saudi Embassy in Manila
4. Report your arrival to the Consulate. Memorize the telephone number and address of the Consulate.
5. When in doubt as to any matter, ask a representative of the Consulate.
6. For any grievance or complaint against your employer, a fellow Filipino or any other person or entity, approach and consult the Consulate. Escaping from your employer is a violation.
7. The authorities of Saudi Arabia are the upholders of the law of the Kingdom. For any criminal and civil violation, approach and report to the authorities.
8. The Consulate could only extend assistance to Filipinos within the legal guidelines of Saudi laws and regulations.
9. Be mindful ofand protect your health.
10. Always remember that you are the representative of the Philippines and what you do or say reflects on the Philippines and the Filipino people.

In case of emergencies, contact the ATN Hotline at 0555-219-613

The OWWA is a membership institution. As such, its programs, projects and services are geared towards safeguarding and promoting the welfare and interests of its members.

For a US$25.00 membership contribution, an OWWA member is entitled to various benefits and services. Membership in OWWA may be obtained in two ways:

1. By enrollment upon processing of contract at the POEA; and
2. By voluntary registration of a would-be member at job sites overseas.

Proof of Membership

The names of all OWWA members are maintained by the OWWA and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) in a database which is updated regularly. Members are issued an Official Receipt upon payment of contribution. They shall likewise be issued an OWWA e-Card.

Effectivity of Membership

OWWA membership, either through the compulsory or voluntary coverages, shall be effective upon payment of membership contribution, until expiration of the employment contract.

In case of voluntary members who register on-site, membership shall not exceed two (2) years.

Renewal of Membership

Membership shall be renewed upon payment of contribution on contract renewal / issuance of new contract. In the case of voluntary membership, coverage shall be renewed upon payment of contribution.

OWWA delivers health care, disability and death benefits, scholarships and financial assistance for education and training, workers assistance and on-site services, and social services and family welfare assistance subject to the qualification requirements and availability of OWWA funds.

All benefits and services are over and above the provisions of the employment contract, offer of employers, or the laws of the receiving country.

For a US$25 membership contribution, an OWWA member and/or his family is entitled to the following benefits and services:

I. MEDICAL / HEALTH CARE, DISABILITY AND DEATH BENEFITS

1.1 Health Program for OFWs (HEALTHPRO). Subsidized medical and hospitalization services for OFWs in response to the medical assistance needs of distressed OFWs, whether local or abroad.

1.2 OFW Medical Rehabilitation Program. A special health package to extend sustainable medical rehabilitation services for returning OFWs who are either suffering from any form of mental disorder/illness or physical disability.

1.3 Disability and Dismemberment Benefit. A member is entitled to disability/dismemberment benefit of up to Php 50,000.

1.4 Total Disability Benefit. A member is entitled to Php 100,000.00 in case of total permanent disability.

1.5 Death Benefit. A member is entitled to a benefit of Php 100,000.00 for the duration of his employment contract for death due to natural cause, and Php 200,000.00 for death due to accident.

1.6 Burial Benefit. A burial benefit of Php 20,000.00 shall be provided as a rider in case of the member’s death.

II. EDUCATION AND TRAINING BENEFITS

1. Pre-Departure Education Program (PDEP). The PDEP is a mandatory training for all departing migrant workers. A component of the PDOS is the Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP) where classes on language training, culture familiarization and stress management for the OFWs are held to prepare them for their new life overseas. The components of the PDEP are:

Comprehensive Pre-Departure Education Program (CPDEP) for household service workers, where classes on language training, culture familiarization and stress management for the OFWs are held to prepare them for their new life overseas.

Country-specific Pre-departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) for OFWs bound for Canada and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Participants are presented with a comprehensive module with sessions on contract familiarization, profile of the country of destination, stages of the OFW’s life, health and safety, airport procedures and government programs.

2. Skills-for-Employment Scholarship Program. The SESP is a technical or vocational training scholarship to qualified OFWs and their beneficiaries. The SESP covers short-term (up to two years) vocational or technician’s course for OFWs and their dependents. A maximum of Php 14,500.00 per course shall be provided to qualified OFWs or their beneficiary.

3. Education for Development Scholarship Program. One hundred fifty (150) college scholarships are awarded to dependents of OFWs to pursue four- to five-year baccalaureate courses. A maximum of Php 60,000.00 per year shall be provided to qualified beneficiaries of OFWs.

4. OFW Dependents Scholarship Program (OFW DSP). OWWA provides financial assistance of Php 20,000.00 per year to poor but deserving dependents of OFWs with a monthly salary of not more than US$400.00/month. Qualifiers enroll in a four- to five-year baccalaureate or associate course leading are entitled to a baccalaureate or associate degree in a state college or university.

5. Seafarers’ Comprehensive Education and Training Programs. Resulting from the maritime industry’s high demand for seafarers and the enhancement of competency for officer positions, OWWA undertakes stop-gap measures to ensure considerable supply of seafarers in the mid-management level and secure the place of our sea-based OFWs in the industry.

5.1 Seafarers’ Upgrading Program. The program intends to provide training assistance to seafarers for upgrading and updating of knowledge and skills through sponsorships. Up to Php 7,500.00 in scholarship grants are available per seafarer.

5.2 Mariners’ Dugtong-Aral. “Dugtong,” which means “bridging” in Filipino, is OWWA’s response to the government’s Bridging Program. The MDA is a scholarship grant given to qualified graduates of BS Mechanical Engineering (BSME) and BS Electrical Engineering (BSEE) who wish to graduate as BS Marine Engineering (BS MarE) and board ocean-going vessels as qualified Marine Officers through referrals made by manning agencies after hurdling the licensure examination.

5.3 Incentive Program for Top 200 Maritime Cadets (Cadetship Program). OWWA shall grant a Php 30,000.00 financial incentive to the top 200 cadets of BS Marine Transportation and BS Marine Engineering who passed the Maritime School Assessment Program (MSAP) as part of the education for development scholarship program of OWWA for prospective OWWA members.

5.4 Maritime Educational Development Loan Program (MEDLOP) For Prospective Marine Officers and Engineers with Guaranteed International Onboard Employment (Study Now, Pay Later Scheme). MEDLOP is an interest-free financial assistance to defray costs of tertiary education of prospective Marine Officers and Engineers. The manning agency will be the applicant and sponsor for the MEDLOP and shall select the student to whom it shall extend the loan.

6. OWWA-Microsoft Tulay. “Tulay,” meaning “bridge” in Filipino, is a pioneering project between the OWWA and Microsoft Corporation that brings information and communication technology training to OFWs, to broaden their career opportunities, and facilitate long-distance communication between them and their families. It offers free information and communication technology (ICT) skills training, access to technology and communication via the Internet. At present, there are Community Technology Learning Centers (CTLC) in every OWWA regional welfare office in the Philippines and in some key overseas OWWA posts.

7. Tuloy-Aral Project. The Tuloy-Aral (“continuation of education”) or TAP is an educational assistance project which aids the less fortunate children of former OFWs to enable them to continue their elementary and high school education in the Philippines by providing a US$100 financial support per year to the child-beneficiary. Donors may be OFWs, OFW organizations, and other interested individuals or groups.

8. Tuloy-Kolehiyo. Extended coverage of the established TAP is the Tuloy Kolehiyo (“continuation of college education”) to include the tertiary education leading to either an associate or baccalaureate degree. The beneficiaries are entitled to either semestral stipend or actual costs of tuition and miscellaneous fees, offered by participating educational institutions, but not to exceed the maximum amount Php 15,000 per school year.

III. WORKERS ASSISTANCE AND ON-SITE SERVICES

The OWWA sustains and maintains assistance to members in all its regional and overseas offices. On behalf of the OFW, the OWWA may provide appropriate representation with employers, agents, and host government authorities. Services include:

1. Locating OFW’S whereabouts, providing information and guidance, counseling and conciliation services, medical and legal assistance, community organization, workplace and hospital visitation, outreach missions, etc.

2. Repatriation Program which includes negotiation with employers and agents, repatriation of distressed workers, human remains and belongings, airport assistance, OWWA Halfway House accommodation, and coordination with families through the OWWA Regional Welfare Offices (RWO).

IV. SOCIAL SERVICES AND FAMILY WELFARE ASSISTANCE

1. Reintegration Program. The program is implemented by OWWA through the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) and OWWA’s Regional Welfare Offices and Overseas Posts for the member-OFW’s economic and social reintegration. Member-OFWs and their families are beneficiaries of the reintegration program and can participate in through business counseling, community organizing, financial literacy seminars, capability-building, networking with support institutions, and other social preparation programs activities. Livelihood loans are available to members subject to the policies formulated by the Board.

2. OWWA-NLDC LDPO PROJECT

The OWWA had tied up has an existing tie-up with the National Livelihood Development Corporation (NLDC) to come up with implement the Livelihood Development Program for OFWs (LDPO) to provide OFW families access to capital for their entrepreneurial activities.

3. 24/7 OWWA OPERATIONS CENTER

The OWWA maintains a 24/7 Operations Center designed to quickly respond to OFW and public inquiries on OWWA programs and services. Manned by OWWA personnel who work in shifts, the Operations Center provides information and advice as well as facilitative services to OFWs in distress overseas; follow-up requests for assistance; global developments on worker migration; and coordination with OWWA regional welfare offices on OFW concerns.

Philippine Consulate General

Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

PhilHealth: Payments of Premiums,

Update on Services and Benefits

13 December 2009, Jeddah – In response to a request of DFA’s Office of Personnel and Administrative Services (OPAS), which conveyed to it the yearning of OFWs to be informed on how they could pay their PhilHealth premiums, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, which administers the PhilHealth program, recently, outlined the following procedures:

• OFWs may pay their premium or renew their membership with PhilHealth at POEA or at any PhilHealth Offices nationwide, personally or through their relative/representative in the Philippines. The relative/representative must make sure that he has any one of the following documents as proof that the member is an OFW: (a) working visa/re-entry permit; or (b) valid Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC); or valid job contract/certificate of employment; or (d) any proof of being an OFW.

OFWs shall pay PHP900.00 annual premium.

• For those who are not yet registered members of PhilHealth, they have to fill up the so-called member Data Record form or M1b form and attach a copy of their birth certificates or any two (2) valid ID cards for identification, then pay the premium required in accordance with the two (2) paragraphs preceding.

For more information and update on current PhilHealth benefits and services, interested parties may visit the Corporation’s website at http://www.PhilHealth.gov.ph.

Membership and premiums

1. In lieu of the MDR, is there a substitute document that my family back in the Philippines could use if someone gets sick?

In case the MDR is not available or not yet updated and someone among your qualified dependents got sick, you can submit the following:

• E-receipt as proof of applicable premium payment
• Clear copy of the following:
  • Spouse - marriage contract/certificate
  • Children - birth certificate
  • Parents - birth certificate of member and patient

2. Can I use my PhilHealth benefits immediately after I have paid my contribution?

Yes. Eligibility for OFWs takes effect on the first day of the period paid for as stated in your Member Data Record (MDR) or the E-receipt.

3. Why do I have to renew my PhilHealth membership every time I leave the country and work as an OFW?

It's not really renewal of membership but an updating of your premiums that shall be equivalent to the length (in years) of your fresh contract.

4. I am currently abroad and my coverage is about to expire. How do I continue paying for my PhilHealth especially that there are no payment centers available here?

You may ask your relatives in the Philippines to pay your premiums for you to avoid any lapses or delays.

5. What do I need to submit to have my reimbursement cheque named after my wife in the Philippines?

We shall be needing a letter from you authorizing PhilHealth to issue the cheque under the name of your legal spouse together with clear copies of your and your wife's two valid IDs and marriage contract. You may also consider issuing your wife a Special Power of Attorney (SPA) to make it more convenient.

6. I am already an immigrant here in the US. Can I still continue my membership with PhilHealth?

You can still continue paying for your PhilHealth coverage as an Individually Paying Member and not as an Overseas Worker Member.

7. How about those granted dual citizenship? Can they continue with their PhilHealth membership?

Those with dual citizenship still have the option to continue paying for their PhilHealth coverage also as Individually Paying Members.