OWWA and LoveYourself Inc. Offer Free Mental Health and HIV Testing Services for OFWs and Seafarers
Manila, Philippines – The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), in collaboration with advocacy group LoveYourself Inc., has launched free mental health services and HIV testing specifically for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), particularly seafarers. This initiative aims to address the growing health needs of Filipino workers both at sea and abroad.
According to OWWA, OFWs can visit the OWWA Seafarer’s Hub in Ermita, Manila, for mental health counseling, which is available daily, or go to the LoveYourself clinic in Pasig City, which offers HIV testing every Monday and Tuesday.
🤝 Strengthened Partnership for Health Support
The collaboration was formalized through a memorandum of agreement signed on Tuesday by OWWA Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan and LoveYourself Inc. founder Ronivin Pagtakhan. The signing ceremony was also attended by Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, who serves as an ambassador for both organizations.
As part of the partnership, the “Embrace Virtual Hub” was launched — a digital platform offering online access to services such as HIV prevention, STI treatment, and mental health support, among others.
📈 Rise in HIV Cases Among OFWs
Pagtakhan highlighted a concerning trend: a significant increase in HIV cases among OFWs, rising from 103 to 500 cases recently. This underscores the urgent need for better access to preventive care and testing services for Filipinos working overseas.
Administrator Caunan emphasized that mental health and sexual health are often difficult topics for OFWs and seafarers to openly discuss due to stigma. She stressed that these free services are designed to help bridge the gap and provide the support they need without judgment.
🚨 HIV Declared a Growing Public Health Concern
According to 2024 data, over 215,000 individuals in the Philippines are currently living with HIV. In response, the Department of Health (DOH) has called for HIV to be declared a national public health emergency, urging both the government and private sectors to intensify prevention and treatment efforts.
📍 How to Access the Services:
-
Mental Health Counseling:
🏥 OWWA Seafarer’s Hub, Ermita, Manila
🕒 Open Daily -
Free HIV Testing:
🏥 LoveYourself Clinic, Pasig City
🕒 Available Every Monday and Tuesday
This joint initiative aims not only to offer crucial health services but also to break the stigma surrounding mental and sexual health among OFWs and seafarers. As Wurtzbach noted during the launch, “No one should suffer in silence. Everyone deserves access to care and support.”
