June 26, 2024 -The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced good news for Filipino workers aiming to be deployed to Kuwait. The Philippine government and Kuwait reached an agreement that ensures stronger protection and enhanced monitoring of Filipino workers' conditions in the Gulf nation.
This development comes after a meeting held on June 23, 2024, between Philippine and Kuwaiti officials. The agreement signifies a positive step in the relationship between the two countries, following a strain caused by restrictions on Filipino workers implemented in May 2023.
Key Points of the Agreement:
- Resumption of Deployment: Kuwait will ease restrictions on issuing entry and work visas for Filipinos. This will allow the deployment of professional, skilled, and semi-skilled workers to resume. Deployment of experienced overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the domestic sector will also be permitted.
- Stronger Protections: The DMW, upholding measures championed by the late Secretary Susan Ople, will implement a system for blacklisting and whitelisting recruitment agencies and employers involved in the deployment process.
- Ensuring Timely Payment: Salaries of Filipino workers will be electronically deposited to guarantee on-time wage payments.
- Welfare Officers for Support: Welfare officers will be designated to monitor and report on the well-being of Filipino workers throughout their employment cycle.
- Joint Committee Established: A joint technical working group will be formed by both countries to address labor concerns and other issues promptly.
DMW Secretary Expresses Gratitude
DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac expressed his appreciation for the positive outcome of the negotiations. He highlighted the strong relationship between the Philippines and Kuwait, fostered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
Continued Support for OFWs
The press release also mentioned Undersecretary Bernard P. Olalia's visit to Kuwait. During his visit, he discussed legal actions related to the fire incident in Mangaf on June 12, 2024, and the case of slain OFW Jullebee Ranara.
The DMW's commitment to the welfare of Filipino workers abroad is evident in these developments. Filipino workers aiming for deployment to Kuwait are assured of better protections and a more robust support system.