Atok, Benguet β March 19, 2026 | The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Atok, successfully conducted a three-day Training on Meat Processing for OFWs from March 17β19, 2026 at the MDRRM Building, Sayangan, Paoay. The program gathered OFW returnees and family members of active OFWs, equipping them with practical skills in meat processing and livelihood development, alongside community organization and support initiatives.
The training gathered OFW returnees and family members of active OFWs, equipping them with practical skills in meat processing and livelihood development.
Day 1 opened with an orientation on the Doβs and Donβts during training, setting the tone for discipline and active participation.
On Day 2, participants engaged in hands-on tocino making (pork and chicken). A lecture on Tulong Puso, delivered by OWWA Staff Mr. Jomark Longey and Ms. Io Enore Bartolome, emphasized the importance of community organization among OFWs β returnees, active workers, and their families. Administrative Officer Mr. Ronan Islao, representing the Mayorβs Office, reaffirmed LGU Atokβs continuous support for OWWA programs, citing yearly appropriations through the Migrants Desk Officer Designate. He encouraged participants to apply their training in business ventures and even represent the LGU in provincial cooking contests.
Day 3 featured practical sessions on ham/spam and embutido making and proper product packaging. The trainers encouraged the participants to create an organization for Atok OFWs, which was organized on the spot and named βSemek ti Umili OFWs Association,” hence the election of officers, followed by their oath-taking. Awarding of Certificates of Participation to trainees and Certificates of Appreciation and giving of simple tokens to trainers followed after the oath-taking. Municipal Mayor Franklin Smith expressed his gratitude to OWWA Staff and the trainers for their unwavering support in bringing programs and services closer to Atokβs OFWs.
The main trainor was Ms. Nenita Sambajon, an OFW returnee who previously joined OWWA trainings and successfully built her meat processing business with an initial capital of only β±3,000.00. Starting with friends as her first customers, her products grew in demand through word-of-mouth. She was assisted by Ms. Grace Burcao, one of her earliest supporters who helped advertise her products.
The training highlighted not only technical skills but also the strong collaboration between OWWA and LGU Atok in supporting OFWs and their families, fostering livelihood opportunities, and strengthening community ties.
The training on meat processing for OFWs in Atok not only imparted valuable technical skills but also strengthened solidarity among OFWs and their families. With the establishment of the βSemek ti Umili OFWs Association,β the program leaves behind a lasting legacy of empowerment, unity, and opportunity. This milestone reflects the shared commitment of OWWA and LGU Atok to bring livelihood programs closer to the people, ensuring that returning and active OFWs continue to thrive and contribute to the progress of the municipality.