SENATOR Raffy T. Tulfo is advocating for the creation of a joint task force between the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to regularly inspect accommodation houses used by overseas and local manpower agencies.
The goal is to guarantee humane and decent living conditions for aspiring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and local domestic helpers.
This call to action follows a personal inspection by Senator Tulfo of various accommodation facilities, where he witnessed firsthand the deplorable conditions faced by many would-be OFWs and domestic workers. During a Monday, March 24, 2025, hearing of the Committee on Migrant Workers, Senator Tulfo highlighted the severity of the issue.
“The reason why I call this hearing is because a couple of weeks ago I did an inspection of the accommodation houses of some (recruitment) agencies and I saw how deplorable the condition of our would-be OFWs…so pitiful they are congested in one small room,” Senator Tulfo stated, emphasizing the urgent need for reform. His observations underscore the critical need for improved oversight and enforcement of regulations concerning worker housing.
In response to Senator Tulfo’s concerns and findings, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac pledged the DMW’s commitment to conducting regular inspections in collaboration with the BFP.
This collaborative approach aims to ensure that agencies comply with minimum standards for worker housing and that the rights and well-being of OFWs are protected.
The establishment of this task force represents a significant step towards improving the lives of aspiring OFWs and domestic workers.
Regular inspections will not only address immediate concerns about substandard living conditions but will also serve as a deterrent to agencies that fail to meet minimum standards, ultimately promoting a more ethical and humane recruitment process.
