KABAYAN Partylist Rep. Ron P. Salo, the Chairperson of the Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, expresses unwavering confidence in the caliber of the Philippine delegation to address the labor concerns with Kuwait.
“I am fully convinced that the delegation will diligently pursue the best interests of Filipino workers and swiftly address the labor issues with Kuwait,” Salo said.
Along with his firm confidence on their capacity, Salo urges the Philippine delegation to prioritize the adoption of proactive measures that will safeguard the welfare and rights of OFWs. He highlights the importance of adopting the following measures in the bilateral agreement:
Placing Passports in the Philippine Embassy/POLO Office to prevent its safekeeping by the employer: Rep. Salo emphasizes the need for a secure and centralized repository for passports, ensuring that the documents are safely kept in the Philippine Embassy or the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO). Instead, the OFWs will just be carrying copies of their passports. This measure will provide an added layer of protection for OFWs and prevent unauthorized access to their personal identification documents.
Establishing a Hotline for Immediate Assistance: Salo underscores the urgency of implementing a dedicated hotline that enables OFWs to reach out for immediate assistance in times of distress. This hotline, accessible through calls or text messages, will serve as a lifeline for OFWs, ensuring that their concerns are promptly addressed and their safety is protected.
Implementation of Quarterly Proof of Life Verification: Salo strongly advocates for the establishment of a mandatory quarterly proof of life verification process. Under this measure, employers of household workers shall be required to bring the workers to the office of the foreign recruitment agencies as evidence of their health and well-being. This regular verification will provide assurance that the workers are in good condition and are not subjected to any form of abuse or exploitation.
“We must be proactive in protecting our Kabayans who toil and sacrifice abroad to provide for their families and contribute to our nation’s progress,” Salo said. “By implementing these measures, we send a clear message that the Philippines is committed in safeguarding the welfare of our OFWs and ensuring their rights are upheld,” Salo added.
