Forty Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) from Kuwait who were allegedly maltreated by their employers returned to the Philippines through the help of OWWA.
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) brought home 40 distressed OFWs who were staying at a shelter in Kuwait. They were among the 421 distressed OFWs who were rescued from their abusive employers.
One of the distressed OFWs was beaten by her employer because she kissed her 2-year-old ward.
“Parang mamatay na po ako kasi binugbog po ako ng amo ko dahil sa paghalik ko sa alaga kong dalawang taon… lahat na po siguro, sipa, hila ng buhok, tapos inuntog po ako sa semento,” the OFW said.
Another OFW confessed that her employer threatened to take her life. “Kapag sabihan kang papatayin, ‘di ba matatakot ka,” said the OFW.
According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Undersecretary Hans Cacdac, they are already reviewing the rules for sending OFWs to another country.
“The main directive of Secretary Toots [Ople] to review our current recruitment policies kaya nirerepaso ang rules and regulations ngayon… para maging more safe and ethical ang recruitment processes,” says Cacdac.
Cacdac also mentioned that they went to Kuwait to ask the side of the recruitment agency of those maltreated OFW.
“Hinimok namin sila na tumulong kasi sa batas natin they have the primary responsibility to repatriate,” says Cacdac. ““Positive naman ang response nila. Agree sila na kailangang tumulong.” Cacdac added.
For those repatriated OFWs, they will be given an integration program and investment money to start a small business. They will also be given training to manage their business.
See details
