Manila, Philippines – During the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers hearing, Committee Chair Raffy Tulfo assured that the approximately 600,000 Filipino seafarers will be protected, particularly in high-risk maritime zones.
Also discussed were the suppression of online illegal recruitment, and the long-standing gaps that overseas workers continue to face, particularly in employment programs.
Tulfo also addressed the situation of Filipino seafarers who were injured due to attacks in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, the agency continues to provide assistance to seafarers, including repatriation of seafarers, and support for the families of the crew members.
Among the ongoing efforts to suppress online illegal recruitment that preys on Filipinos seeking work abroad.
According to Cacdac, they are already in talks with Meta to take down online recruiter page.
Tulfo warned personnels of Philippine embassies abroad, and representatives of the Migrant Workers Office to do their job to meet the needs of OFWs.
This was prompted by reports received by the senator from OFWs regarding the treatment of embassy personnel and MWO personnel abroad.
The senate also recommended that the use of agents be banned in the recruitment of Filipinos seeking work abroad.—Alvin Pelobello, Eurotv News