Background. There is an increasing number of distressed Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) due to adverse working
conditions and unresolved post-repatriation issues. The enactment of the Republic Act 11036 (Mental Health Act)
in 2018 supports the commitment of the State in promoting and protecting the mental health of every Filipino.
Methods. A systematic review of literature was conducted to generate evidence-based policy tools for the round
table discussion conducted by the UP Manila Health Policy Development Hub, engaging all major stakeholders from
all sides of the policy issue. Strengths and challenges of the current government initiatives in the phases of predeployment, deployment, repatriation, and reintegration were discussed to attain consensus policy recommendations.
Results. Increased migration led to a cascade of distressed OFWs and their subsequent need for trained mental health
professionals. In host countries, challenges in on-site services include (i) limited psychiatry practice as prescribed by
law of the host countries, (ii) reciprocity of the host country in allowing more welfare officers, and (iii) budget to
support more plantilla items of Assistance to Nationals (ATN) staff. The inter-agency collaboration and legal support
for all phases of migration should be holistic and set.
Conclusions and Recommendations. From the literature review and policy discussion, consensus recommendations
included strengthening pre-deployment preparation, curbing the trafficking of minors, improving psychiatry practice
through the Bilateral Labor Agreement, developing psychosocial counseling competencies among front line host
country personnel, enhancing telecounselling services and exploring telemedicine, among others.

Acta Medica Philippina, 2020 54 (6) pages 769-779