24/01/2025
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24/01/2025
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MANILA, Jan 24: The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has clarified that no decision has been made regarding a possible deployment ban to Kuwait following recent deaths of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). The clarification was made by Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega during an interview with ANC, a news channel in the Philippines.
Undersecretary De Vega stated that discussions on the matter are ongoing and emphasized the need for a long-term strategy to ensure the safety and welfare of Filipino workers in Kuwait, regardless of whether a deployment ban is eventually imposed.
“The safety and protection of our workers should not rely solely on temporary measures. We need comprehensive and lasting solutions,” De Vega stressed during the interview.
The DFA, in coordination with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), is reviewing existing bilateral agreements and policies with Kuwait to reinforce protections for OFWs, particularly domestic workers who are often the most vulnerable to abuse.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, in a separate statement, confirmed that the DMW is reassessing deployment policies to address safety concerns. “We are considering stricter measures, possible restrictions on deployments, and improved safety protocols to better protect our workers,” Cacdac said.
This clarification comes amid mounting public concern and calls for stronger measures to tackle recurring issues faced by Filipino workers in Kuwait. Advocacy groups and families of OFWs have urged the government to adopt stricter safeguards against abuse and maltreatment.
The DFA assured the public that any decisions on the deployment of workers to Kuwait will be carefully deliberated, with the primary goal of ensuring the safety and welfare of OFWs.
