THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) yesterday told overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) waiting to be deployed to report any concerns and issues regarding the accommodation facilities of their recruitment agencies.
In a social media post, the DMW said OFWs staying in the accommodation facilities of their recruiters should raise concerns over possible issues with their living conditions.
“DMW Rules and Regulations Governing the Recruitment and Employment of Landbased Overseas Filipino Workers states that all accommodation facilities provided by the Philippine recruitment agency shall provide OFWs with adequate provisions, such as food, drinking water, beds, blankets, toilet facilities, and other amenities to ensure decent and human living conditions, free of charge,” said the DMW.
“The DMW encourages overseas job seekers to immediately report concerns on these kinds of situations,” it added.
It said reporting may be done via the DMW – Migrant Workers Protection Bureau Facebook page: www.facebook.com/dmwairtip.
An accommodation facility refers to houses/housing provided to OFWs by a recruitment agency.
The department issued the call after receiving reports of OFWs waiting for their deployment regarding their accommodation’s house rules, specifically the prohibition of leaving the premises to buy food, forcing them to purchase meals from the accommodation’s canteen.
Additionally, it noted grievances regarding verbal abuse and blacklisting threats, high costs associated with cashing out through G-cash and phone charging, overcrowded rooms, lack of proper bedding, and inadequate water provision for bathing.
The DMW called on recruitment agencies to adhere to provisions stated under the DMW Rules and Regulations Governing the Recruitment and Employment of Landbased Overseas Filipino Workers.
“The agency management must address the issues raised by the applicants, ensure improvement in living conditions, fair treatment, and employ appropriate remedies,” said the DMW.
