PASAY CITY— The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has announced a series of strengthened measures and new bilateral agreements aimed at enhancing the protection of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). These initiatives, revealed during the Post-State of the Nation Address (SONA) discussions, focus on improving the conditions of OFWs in key host countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DMW has been proactive in refining bilateral relations since the President's first SONA, emphasizing the administration's commitment to safeguarding OFWs. Recent discussions with Saudi Arabia, which hosts the largest number of OFWs, have led to significant policy enhancements, including the revision of standard contracts to offer better protection for domestic workers.
The department's data indicates that a substantial proportion of the 1.96 million OFWs reported in 2022 were based in Saudi Arabia (23.0%) and the UAE (13.7%). In response, the DMW has implemented measures such as live-out arrangements for domestic workers to ensure their safety and well-being while employed abroad.
Further initiatives include the integration of comprehensive insurance coverage, addressing health and wage protection, and the introduction of a system to whitelist and blacklist recruitment agencies to maintain high recruitment standards.
The DMW has also engaged in diplomatic efforts with other Middle Eastern countries such as the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar to extend these protections. A recent joint committee meeting with the UAE is set to pave the way for even stronger safeguards for OFWs in these regions.
In addition to Middle Eastern engagements, the DMW is exploring new bilateral partnerships with Central and Eastern European nations, with discussions ongoing with Austria and following high-level visits to Germany, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.
The plight of Filipino seafarers has also been addressed, with the adoption of a UN resolution to protect seafarers highlighted in President Marcos' third SONA. Following the designation of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden as war-like zones, the DMW has taken measures to monitor and ensure the safety of Filipino seafarers navigating these waters.
These comprehensive efforts underscore the Philippines' commitment to the welfare of its overseas workers, ensuring that they are supported and protected regardless of their global location.