Manila, Philippines — A Philippine lawmaker emphasized the need for more robust protections in the bilateral labor agreements (BLAs) with other nations to safeguard overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). This call for action coincides with Kuwait lifting its year-long ban on issuing entry and worker visas for OFWs.
According to Philippines News Agency, the existing agreements should be enforced with decisive measures to prevent any abuses against OFWs abroad. She highlighted the necessity for stringent consequences in these agreements to deter potential misconduct by foreign employers. The statement was made following the recent lifting of the Kuwaiti ban which had been in place since May 2023 due to a severe incident involving the murder of an OFW.
The lawmaker also pointed out that the resumed deployment should come with enhanced policies for worker protection. She credited the collaborative efforts of the Kuwaiti government, the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and local embassy staff for their role in re-establishing work opportunities for Filipinos in Kuwait.
Magsino called for BLAs to explicitly include terms for social security, equal treatment, repatriation, and detailed protocols for handling criminal offenses against OFWs. Such measures are seen as crucial for providing legal recourse and securing justice for OFWs and their families.
Furthermore, in response to the policy changes, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac announced a brief adjustment period to update relevant regulations and resume the deployment of newly hired and skilled workers to Kuwait. A joint technical working committee between the Philippines and Kuwait will also be established to address ongoing labor issues and enhance bilateral cooperation on labor matters.