The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly reiterates its call to all Filipino nationals in Libya to return home as soon as possible.
DFA in a statement said Alert Level 4 has been raised due to the latest security developments in Libya, the increasing violence and lawlessness, the closure of major airports, the heightened security threat to Filipinos, particularly in Benghazi, where a Filipino worker was kidnapped on July 15 and was confirmed dead Saturday.
These events indicate that it is no longer safe for our OFWs to remain in Libya, DFA reiterates and asks OFWs that for their own safety to immediately contact the Philippine Embassy in Tripoli to register for repatriation.
Since the start of the crisis, DFA said it has continuously monitored the security developments in Libya while remaining sensitive to the needs of overseas Filipino workers in that country.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario headed to Libya on May 28 to personally assess the situation on the ground. The DFA subsequently raised the Alert Level to 3 (Voluntary Repatriation) on May 29 due to the political and security instability there. A Rapid Response Team, as well as an augmentation team from the DFA, were also sent shortly to Libya to assist the Philippine Embassy in Tripoli in the repatriation efforts.
The Philippine Embassy in Tripoli reached out to the Filipino community and to employers in Libya to brief them on the situation and inform them of DFA’s responses to the crisis. Embassy officers made representations with employers to promote the labor interests of OFWs and obtain employers’ cooperation to ensure their safety.
The DFA also put up 24-hour hotlines for families of OFWs in Libya. Those who have questions and concerns about the conditions of their relatives in Libya can call the hotline numbers (02) 552-7105 / (02) 834-4685. Families may also send their queries by e-mail to oumwa@dfa.gov.ph.
To register for repatriation, OFWs in Libya can directly get in touch with the Philippine Embassy in Tripoli. The Embassy's address is KM 7 Gargaresh Road, Abu Nawas, P.O. Box 12508, Tripoli. Filipinos can contact the Embassy through the telephone numbers (00218) 918-244-208 / (00218) 911061166, and the e-mail addresses tripoli.pe@gmail.com; tripoli.pe@dfa.gov.ph.(DFA)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1781405866460#sthash.sxUl9qVA.dpuf
Showing posts with label ofw news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ofw news. Show all posts
Monday, July 21, 2014
Friday, May 23, 2014
OFWs advised to take precautionary measures vs MERS-CoV
Vice President and Presidential Adviser for Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) concerns Jejomar C. Binay called Filipinos in the Middle East to take precautionary measures against the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome- Corona Virus (MERS-CoV).
“I urge our OFWs in the Middle East to follow the steps prescribed by the DOH. These are easy enough and should go a long way in preventing infection,” Binay said.
The Vice President also urged Filipinos in the region not to panic and confirm reports about the virus with Philippine officials in their area.
“The World Health Organization (WHO) has not yet declared that there is a MERS-CoV outbreak or epidemic, so there is no cause for panic. If rumors start to circulate, the best thing to do is to ask your respective embassies or consulates,” he added.
According to the WHO, the virus appears to be circulating widely throughout the Arabian Peninsula. Other countries outside the Arabian Peninsula that have reported cases of MERS include France, Germany, Greece, Italy, and the United Kingdom (Europe); Tunisia and Egypt (Africa); Malaysia and the Philippines (Asia); and in the United States of America.
The number of confirmed cases worldwide is recorded at 243, including three deaths. (OVP/WHO/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=241400664535#sthash.dZbZ3Ku1.dpuf
“I urge our OFWs in the Middle East to follow the steps prescribed by the DOH. These are easy enough and should go a long way in preventing infection,” Binay said.
The Vice President also urged Filipinos in the region not to panic and confirm reports about the virus with Philippine officials in their area.
“The World Health Organization (WHO) has not yet declared that there is a MERS-CoV outbreak or epidemic, so there is no cause for panic. If rumors start to circulate, the best thing to do is to ask your respective embassies or consulates,” he added.
According to the WHO, the virus appears to be circulating widely throughout the Arabian Peninsula. Other countries outside the Arabian Peninsula that have reported cases of MERS include France, Germany, Greece, Italy, and the United Kingdom (Europe); Tunisia and Egypt (Africa); Malaysia and the Philippines (Asia); and in the United States of America.
The number of confirmed cases worldwide is recorded at 243, including three deaths. (OVP/WHO/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=241400664535#sthash.dZbZ3Ku1.dpuf
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
72 OWWA Scholarship Still Open
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration 6 is still looking for 72 scholars under its OFW Dependents Scholarship Program (OFWDSP).
Qualified to the scholarship are incoming college freshmen of OFW parents who have a monthly salary of not more than US$400.
“We would like to give opportunity to the children of our OFWs whose salary is within the bracket to pursue their college education through this scholarship,” said Director Ron Lionel Bartolome of OWWA 6.
Successful applicants to the program are entitled to a maximum of P20,000.00 financial assistance per school year for a baccalaureate or associate degree in a state college or university.
Bartolome said 19 incoming first year college dependents of OFWs in the region also passed the examination given by the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute last year and qualified as scholars under the Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) this school year 2014 – 2015.
The new EDSP scholars will receive a maximum education assistance of P60,000.00 per school year for a four-to-five year baccalaureate course in any college or university of their choice.
Interested dependents who want to avail of the scholarship may visit the OWWA 6 Office at Robinsons Place Iloilo City or call telephone number (033) 509-1075 for more details.
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=931399621641#sthash.wLcZer4W.dpuf
Qualified to the scholarship are incoming college freshmen of OFW parents who have a monthly salary of not more than US$400.
“We would like to give opportunity to the children of our OFWs whose salary is within the bracket to pursue their college education through this scholarship,” said Director Ron Lionel Bartolome of OWWA 6.
Successful applicants to the program are entitled to a maximum of P20,000.00 financial assistance per school year for a baccalaureate or associate degree in a state college or university.
Bartolome said 19 incoming first year college dependents of OFWs in the region also passed the examination given by the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute last year and qualified as scholars under the Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) this school year 2014 – 2015.
The new EDSP scholars will receive a maximum education assistance of P60,000.00 per school year for a four-to-five year baccalaureate course in any college or university of their choice.
Interested dependents who want to avail of the scholarship may visit the OWWA 6 Office at Robinsons Place Iloilo City or call telephone number (033) 509-1075 for more details.
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=931399621641#sthash.wLcZer4W.dpuf
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Placement Agency Faces Suspension for Overcharging of Placement Fees
A placement agency faces suspension after an overseas Filipino worker it deployed to Hong Kong suffered several abuses at the hands of her employer.
The Department of Labor and Employment said this as its agencies reassured the OFW, Rowena Uychiat, of assistance to her and her family in the Philippines.
DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz assured Uychiat's family the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration and the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Hong Kong will help her file a complaint against NAR Training and Management Service for making Uychiat pay P45,000 in placement fee.
Baldoz also directed the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration to file a case against a certain Joy of NAR Training and Management Service for deducting P5,000 from the loan proceeds allegedly as processing fee.
On the other hand, the DOLE is also eyeing actions against Nittan Capital Finance Inc., where Uychiat contracted a P50,000 loan to pay the placement fee.
Earlier, Philippine Labor Attache to Hong Kong Manuel Roldan said the POLO has blacklisted Uychiat's employer, Yui Anna Hoi Yin.
"This means Yui Anna Hoi Yin cannot hire another worker unless police investigation shows otherwise. The POLO will not process any contract document which the employer will present as a pre-requisite to visa issuance," Roldan said.
Uychiat, a widow, has a 19-year old daughter Justine, who is taking up criminology at Bago City College. She also has a 13-year old son, Ryan
Read the continuation of the news at GMANews.tv
The Department of Labor and Employment said this as its agencies reassured the OFW, Rowena Uychiat, of assistance to her and her family in the Philippines.
DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz assured Uychiat's family the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration and the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Hong Kong will help her file a complaint against NAR Training and Management Service for making Uychiat pay P45,000 in placement fee.
Baldoz also directed the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration to file a case against a certain Joy of NAR Training and Management Service for deducting P5,000 from the loan proceeds allegedly as processing fee.
On the other hand, the DOLE is also eyeing actions against Nittan Capital Finance Inc., where Uychiat contracted a P50,000 loan to pay the placement fee.
Earlier, Philippine Labor Attache to Hong Kong Manuel Roldan said the POLO has blacklisted Uychiat's employer, Yui Anna Hoi Yin.
"This means Yui Anna Hoi Yin cannot hire another worker unless police investigation shows otherwise. The POLO will not process any contract document which the employer will present as a pre-requisite to visa issuance," Roldan said.
Uychiat, a widow, has a 19-year old daughter Justine, who is taking up criminology at Bago City College. She also has a 13-year old son, Ryan
Read the continuation of the news at GMANews.tv
Sunday, May 11, 2014
Pinoy among 162 alleged illegal aliens arrested in Malaysia
A Filipino was among the 162 alleged aliens arrested by Malaysia
immigration authorities Friday night, Malaysia's Bernama news agency
reported Saturday.
The Bernama report, posted on Malaysian news site New Straits Times, said the foreign nationals arrested in "Ops Bersepadu 6P", included 56 Myanmar nationals, 36 Bangladeshis, 30 Nepalese, 23 Indonesians, seven Indians, five Pakistanis, four Vietnamese and the Filipino.
Among those arrested 19 were women, and all the suspects' ages ranged between 12 and 60 years.
The foreign nationals allegedly either did not possess identification documents or had overstayed in Malaysia, immigration assistant director Amdan Yahaya said.
Read the rest of the story at GMANews
The Bernama report, posted on Malaysian news site New Straits Times, said the foreign nationals arrested in "Ops Bersepadu 6P", included 56 Myanmar nationals, 36 Bangladeshis, 30 Nepalese, 23 Indonesians, seven Indians, five Pakistanis, four Vietnamese and the Filipino.
Among those arrested 19 were women, and all the suspects' ages ranged between 12 and 60 years.
The foreign nationals allegedly either did not possess identification documents or had overstayed in Malaysia, immigration assistant director Amdan Yahaya said.
Read the rest of the story at GMANews
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
P10K Livelihood Assistance For Overseas Filipino Workers In WV
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Western Visayas who applied for the P10K livelihood Assistance Program of the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) can now claim their checks at the provincial offices of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in their respective areas.
Bernard Sibay, Regional OFW Integration Officer of NCRO here in Region 6 said 45 applications for the P10K livelihood Assistance Program have been approved amounting to P450,000.00 and the checks are now downloaded to the DOLE provincial offices for release.
To date, 19 beneficiaries have already claimed their checks of which five received theirs from DOLE Undersecretary Ciriaco Lagunzad during his recent visit to Iloilo City.
Based on the NRCO 6 data, OFWs from the province of Negros Occidental whose applications were approved and have to claim their checks yet are: Ramile Combite, Ressia Bentic, Richard Bautista, Mark Ermeo, Ronabe Mancia, Maritess Atido, Cherryl Anatan, Rodelyn Jane Morales, Maritess Tipon, Susie Espina and Lolita Bacharo.
In the province of Iloilo, approved applicants who also have to claim their checks are: Connie Chavez, Wilma Cataloctocan, Mary Jane Jegonia, Daisy Matrata and Rey Anthony Mosquito.
The following OFWs are also advised to visit their respective DOLE provincial offices: Mary Ann de la Cruz, Imelda Andrade, Rosy Obidos and Nancy Ramirez of Capiz; Presy Maravilla, Josephine Olegario, Mary Jean Mombay; Roberto Amboyoc and Jeffrey Samillano, of Antique; and Meljane Cabanero of Guimaras.
For OFW beneficiaries who are now in Manila or in other areas, Sibay said, they have to execute a special power of attorney that authorizes their representatives to claim their checks on their behalf.
Under the P10K Livelihood Assistance Program, OFW returnees who are distressed, displaced, undocumented including their immediate families and dependents can avail of the assistance for them to start or enhance their existing livelihood undertakings and eventually become self sufficient.
Sibay said if beneficiaries manage their businesses well they could also avail additional development support from the P2 Billion Reintegration Program, a special loan program launched by President Benigno Aquino and implemented by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in partnership with Development Bank of the Philippines and the Land Bank of the Philippines. (JSC/LAF-PIA6)
See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=931399279737#sthash.9QZ2RyqK.dpuf
Bernard Sibay, Regional OFW Integration Officer of NCRO here in Region 6 said 45 applications for the P10K livelihood Assistance Program have been approved amounting to P450,000.00 and the checks are now downloaded to the DOLE provincial offices for release.
To date, 19 beneficiaries have already claimed their checks of which five received theirs from DOLE Undersecretary Ciriaco Lagunzad during his recent visit to Iloilo City.
Based on the NRCO 6 data, OFWs from the province of Negros Occidental whose applications were approved and have to claim their checks yet are: Ramile Combite, Ressia Bentic, Richard Bautista, Mark Ermeo, Ronabe Mancia, Maritess Atido, Cherryl Anatan, Rodelyn Jane Morales, Maritess Tipon, Susie Espina and Lolita Bacharo.
In the province of Iloilo, approved applicants who also have to claim their checks are: Connie Chavez, Wilma Cataloctocan, Mary Jane Jegonia, Daisy Matrata and Rey Anthony Mosquito.
The following OFWs are also advised to visit their respective DOLE provincial offices: Mary Ann de la Cruz, Imelda Andrade, Rosy Obidos and Nancy Ramirez of Capiz; Presy Maravilla, Josephine Olegario, Mary Jean Mombay; Roberto Amboyoc and Jeffrey Samillano, of Antique; and Meljane Cabanero of Guimaras.
For OFW beneficiaries who are now in Manila or in other areas, Sibay said, they have to execute a special power of attorney that authorizes their representatives to claim their checks on their behalf.
Under the P10K Livelihood Assistance Program, OFW returnees who are distressed, displaced, undocumented including their immediate families and dependents can avail of the assistance for them to start or enhance their existing livelihood undertakings and eventually become self sufficient.
Sibay said if beneficiaries manage their businesses well they could also avail additional development support from the P2 Billion Reintegration Program, a special loan program launched by President Benigno Aquino and implemented by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in partnership with Development Bank of the Philippines and the Land Bank of the Philippines. (JSC/LAF-PIA6)
See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=931399279737#sthash.9QZ2RyqK.dpuf
Saturday, May 3, 2014
DOH cites OFW for heeding MERS-CoV alert
The Department of Health-6 said the OFW from Jeddah Saudi Arabia who sought consultation here after feeling feverish is a model for others in heeding the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus (MERS-CoV) alert.
Dr. Glen Alonsabe, DOH regional epidemiologist, said that the OFW, a female nurse, went to the Iloilo Doctors’ Hospital and later was placed on quarantine in government facility at the Western Visayas Medical Center for swab tests to be confirmed by the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, in two or three days.
Alonsabe said in a radio interview that the nurse was recently declared negative of the virus, as confirmed in the results of the swab test.
“The feverish feeling may be due to changes in the weather,” Alonsabe opined.
Earlier, Alonsabe appealed to the public to stop MERS-CoV scare through circulation of unverified text messages which followed news of the OFW’s seeking consultation.
He warned that rumors could harm a person’s reputation, so the DOH is working to verify all information, and is open to queries.
“So far, there is no confirmed positive case of MERS-CoV in Western Visayas, but this should not leave us complacent,” Alonsave said.
He added that all Ilonggo passengers of Etihad Airlines flight EY 0424 that arrived in the country on April 15, were negative for the virus.
MERS-CoV is a communicable disease which may be passed on to another through close contact with a person tested positive.
Other than fever, the symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, and runny nose after two weeks of exposure.
DOH still recommends personal hygiene, hand washing and covering of mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. (ESS/PIA-Iloilo)
See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=911399008443#sthash.vO0gck4c.dpuf
Dr. Glen Alonsabe, DOH regional epidemiologist, said that the OFW, a female nurse, went to the Iloilo Doctors’ Hospital and later was placed on quarantine in government facility at the Western Visayas Medical Center for swab tests to be confirmed by the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, in two or three days.
Alonsabe said in a radio interview that the nurse was recently declared negative of the virus, as confirmed in the results of the swab test.
“The feverish feeling may be due to changes in the weather,” Alonsabe opined.
Earlier, Alonsabe appealed to the public to stop MERS-CoV scare through circulation of unverified text messages which followed news of the OFW’s seeking consultation.
He warned that rumors could harm a person’s reputation, so the DOH is working to verify all information, and is open to queries.
“So far, there is no confirmed positive case of MERS-CoV in Western Visayas, but this should not leave us complacent,” Alonsave said.
He added that all Ilonggo passengers of Etihad Airlines flight EY 0424 that arrived in the country on April 15, were negative for the virus.
MERS-CoV is a communicable disease which may be passed on to another through close contact with a person tested positive.
Other than fever, the symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, and runny nose after two weeks of exposure.
DOH still recommends personal hygiene, hand washing and covering of mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. (ESS/PIA-Iloilo)
See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=911399008443#sthash.vO0gck4c.dpuf
Former OFW beheads own mother in Iloilo
A former overseas Filipino worker beheaded his own mother while suffering a nervous breakdown in Iloilo province, a radio report said Thursday.
The incident occurred in Barangay Bonbon in Lambunao town in Iloilo, Bombo Radyo reported.
Barangay chairman Rolando Araceli was quoted in the report as saying the suspect, whose name his relatives withheld, attacked his mother Erlinda Liderato, 65.
He described the suspect as kind and obedient before the breakdown, adding the suspect even worked abroad.
Liderato's body was found outside her house, with the severed head placed on top of it.
An initial investigation showed that before Liderato's remains were found, the suspect hacked her on the shoulder but she managed to get out of the house to call for help.
When the suspect's sister arrived later, she saw blood on the suspect's short pants and called local barangay officials for help.
The suspect was confined in his hut and authorities are making arrangements to bring him to a mental hospital.
source: GMA News
The incident occurred in Barangay Bonbon in Lambunao town in Iloilo, Bombo Radyo reported.
Barangay chairman Rolando Araceli was quoted in the report as saying the suspect, whose name his relatives withheld, attacked his mother Erlinda Liderato, 65.
He described the suspect as kind and obedient before the breakdown, adding the suspect even worked abroad.
Liderato's body was found outside her house, with the severed head placed on top of it.
An initial investigation showed that before Liderato's remains were found, the suspect hacked her on the shoulder but she managed to get out of the house to call for help.
When the suspect's sister arrived later, she saw blood on the suspect's short pants and called local barangay officials for help.
The suspect was confined in his hut and authorities are making arrangements to bring him to a mental hospital.
source: GMA News
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
DOLE Chief Orders Full Support to OFWs
Labor Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz has asked all regional directors of umbrella agency, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), to give full support to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), both active and inactive.
In her statement during the launching of the regional programs and projects last week, Secretary Baldoz said, “OWWA regional offices should have a profile of all active and inactive members for livelihood assistance and cash for work and it should be available if the members need it.”
Baldoz said there are funds that are intended for OFW support both from the national government and the employers’ contribution that go to the OWWA Trust fund.
Aside from the OWWA trust fund, the national government is also setting aside P50 million for our OFWs under the National Reintegration Fund. This is for the victims of maltreatment abroad who have come home and decided to work here permanently.
“They should be given alternative employment and livelihood here,” the secretary emphasized.
Baldoz added that the program also includes scholarships for the children of OFWs. She, however, said that active OFWs can also avail themselves of work-related insurance.
“Active and inactive OFWs can avail of all our programs except that only active members can avail of insurance since insurance is connected with their being active workers,” she explained.
Baldoz has also asked OWWA-9 Regional Director Hassan Gabra Jumdain to submit a separate report if there are OWWA members that are victims of the September 2013 MNLF-Misuari Group attack in the city.
“I want a separate report if there are members who are victims of the recent crisis in Zamboanga City and what are the assistance extended to them,” she stressed. (FPG/MVC/PIA9-ZBST)
In her statement during the launching of the regional programs and projects last week, Secretary Baldoz said, “OWWA regional offices should have a profile of all active and inactive members for livelihood assistance and cash for work and it should be available if the members need it.”
Baldoz said there are funds that are intended for OFW support both from the national government and the employers’ contribution that go to the OWWA Trust fund.
Aside from the OWWA trust fund, the national government is also setting aside P50 million for our OFWs under the National Reintegration Fund. This is for the victims of maltreatment abroad who have come home and decided to work here permanently.
“They should be given alternative employment and livelihood here,” the secretary emphasized.
Baldoz added that the program also includes scholarships for the children of OFWs. She, however, said that active OFWs can also avail themselves of work-related insurance.
“Active and inactive OFWs can avail of all our programs except that only active members can avail of insurance since insurance is connected with their being active workers,” she explained.
Baldoz has also asked OWWA-9 Regional Director Hassan Gabra Jumdain to submit a separate report if there are OWWA members that are victims of the September 2013 MNLF-Misuari Group attack in the city.
“I want a separate report if there are members who are victims of the recent crisis in Zamboanga City and what are the assistance extended to them,” she stressed. (FPG/MVC/PIA9-ZBST)
Friday, December 13, 2013
OWWA Identifies 6 of 7 Filipinos Killed In The Yemen Attack
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) yesterday
identified six of the seven overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were
killed in the recent terrorists attack in Yemen.
OWWA Administrator Carmelita Dimzon identified the six slain OFWs as Dr. Ruben Valenzuela, Hezel Pueblos, Edward Anthony de Guzman, Marivic Corilla Bandenas, Marian David and Aurora Gormate Yumul.
The victims’ families were already informed of the benefits accorded to them being documented workers in Yemen.
Dimzon also said that the families were also told that they are already working out on the repatriation of the victims’ remains but could not give further details on the exact date of the arrival because of the tight December booking.
Dimzon, however, did give any comment on the seventh female nurse victim who was also killed in the attack.
Dimzon said they are still coordinating with Yemen authorities to give them pertinent documents so that they could also inform the family of the victim.
The OWWA administrator added the agency has no record with them on the seventh victim neither with the Philippine Overseas Employment and Administration (POEA).
According to Dimzon, she admitted that out of 1,500 OFWs in Yemen, only 900 of them were documented and members of the agency. She said that together with the other agencies, they have already sent a team in Yemen to meet the OFWs who wanted a voluntary repatriation.
OWWA Administrator Carmelita Dimzon identified the six slain OFWs as Dr. Ruben Valenzuela, Hezel Pueblos, Edward Anthony de Guzman, Marivic Corilla Bandenas, Marian David and Aurora Gormate Yumul.
The victims’ families were already informed of the benefits accorded to them being documented workers in Yemen.
Dimzon also said that the families were also told that they are already working out on the repatriation of the victims’ remains but could not give further details on the exact date of the arrival because of the tight December booking.
Dimzon, however, did give any comment on the seventh female nurse victim who was also killed in the attack.
Dimzon said they are still coordinating with Yemen authorities to give them pertinent documents so that they could also inform the family of the victim.
The OWWA administrator added the agency has no record with them on the seventh victim neither with the Philippine Overseas Employment and Administration (POEA).
According to Dimzon, she admitted that out of 1,500 OFWs in Yemen, only 900 of them were documented and members of the agency. She said that together with the other agencies, they have already sent a team in Yemen to meet the OFWs who wanted a voluntary repatriation.
DOLE to OFWs: Observe, learn, and comply with KSA law
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) advises overseas Filipino workers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to strictly observe, and follow the KSA law.
“Observe, comply, and honor the laws in your country of destination,” Labor & Employment chief Rosalinda Baldoz, in a statement said.
The labor chief made the statement after receiving a letter from the Assistant Secretary Petronila P. Garcia of the Department of Foreign Affairs informing the DOLE of a recent issuance from Ministry of Interior of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) entitled “Rules Governing Law-Breaching Foreign Workers”.
According to the said issuance, the Ministry of Interior, represented by its law enforcement agencies, shall undertake the pursuit, apprehension, penalizing, and deportation of foreign workers who work for their own account, or illegal labor; those who abscond from work; overstayers, including holders of Hajj, Umrah, tourism, medical treatment, transit, or visit (of all types) visas; and infiltrators arrested outside the border area. It will also pursue anyone who employs offending foreign wokers; allows his workers to work for their own account; provides cover, harbors, or transports the same or aids them by any means, as well as recruiters who do not report overstaying recruits.
An offending foreign worker shall be deported at the expense of the employer, unless the worker absconds from work and is reported immediately. Foreign workers entering the Kingdom under Hajj or Umrah visa, visit visa of all types, or other types of visa, or absconded from work, shall be deported at the expense of the person employing him.
If he is working on his own account, he shall be deported at his own expense, or at the expense of the state, if he cannot afford a ticket.
Otherwise, he shall be deported at the expense of the company, establishment, or person sponsoring his visit, the carrier, or the person providing him with cover. Any deported foreigner shall be prohibited from entering the Kingdom, in accordance with the periods and procedures specified in regulations to be issued, pursuant to a decision by the Minister of the Interior.
Hajj and Umrah companies and establishment shall notify the competent authorities of any visitor who overstays his Hajj or Umrah visa.
The same should be done by a person sponsoring a visitor who prolongs his stay in the Kingdom.
Otherwise, said sponsor shall be deemed to be committing an instance of cover up. Companies, private establishments, and individuals should ensure that the foreign workers they hire obtain and renew their iqama, or the residence, and work permits in due time.
They should not employ workers of third parties, nor allow their workers to work for third parties, without following established statutory rules or work for their account. Within five days, they should notify the competent authorities of workers absconding from work.
Violators of this rule will be deprived of the right to obtain work or visit visa for a period not exceeding five years.
Government agencies should also ensure that all foreigners working for them or in fields falling within their jurisdictions have valid iqama and work permits or are employed under officially approved contracts.
“It pays to be obedient. You will never go wrong if you are following the rules and regulations of any country you are in,” Baldoz said.
“If you have nothing to worry about, you can do you work properly and you will be able to realize what you came there for,” Baldoz added.
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=231386828480#sthash.5B0b6KiA.dpuf
“Observe, comply, and honor the laws in your country of destination,” Labor & Employment chief Rosalinda Baldoz, in a statement said.
The labor chief made the statement after receiving a letter from the Assistant Secretary Petronila P. Garcia of the Department of Foreign Affairs informing the DOLE of a recent issuance from Ministry of Interior of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) entitled “Rules Governing Law-Breaching Foreign Workers”.
According to the said issuance, the Ministry of Interior, represented by its law enforcement agencies, shall undertake the pursuit, apprehension, penalizing, and deportation of foreign workers who work for their own account, or illegal labor; those who abscond from work; overstayers, including holders of Hajj, Umrah, tourism, medical treatment, transit, or visit (of all types) visas; and infiltrators arrested outside the border area. It will also pursue anyone who employs offending foreign wokers; allows his workers to work for their own account; provides cover, harbors, or transports the same or aids them by any means, as well as recruiters who do not report overstaying recruits.
An offending foreign worker shall be deported at the expense of the employer, unless the worker absconds from work and is reported immediately. Foreign workers entering the Kingdom under Hajj or Umrah visa, visit visa of all types, or other types of visa, or absconded from work, shall be deported at the expense of the person employing him.
If he is working on his own account, he shall be deported at his own expense, or at the expense of the state, if he cannot afford a ticket.
Otherwise, he shall be deported at the expense of the company, establishment, or person sponsoring his visit, the carrier, or the person providing him with cover. Any deported foreigner shall be prohibited from entering the Kingdom, in accordance with the periods and procedures specified in regulations to be issued, pursuant to a decision by the Minister of the Interior.
Hajj and Umrah companies and establishment shall notify the competent authorities of any visitor who overstays his Hajj or Umrah visa.
The same should be done by a person sponsoring a visitor who prolongs his stay in the Kingdom.
Otherwise, said sponsor shall be deemed to be committing an instance of cover up. Companies, private establishments, and individuals should ensure that the foreign workers they hire obtain and renew their iqama, or the residence, and work permits in due time.
They should not employ workers of third parties, nor allow their workers to work for third parties, without following established statutory rules or work for their account. Within five days, they should notify the competent authorities of workers absconding from work.
Violators of this rule will be deprived of the right to obtain work or visit visa for a period not exceeding five years.
Government agencies should also ensure that all foreigners working for them or in fields falling within their jurisdictions have valid iqama and work permits or are employed under officially approved contracts.
“It pays to be obedient. You will never go wrong if you are following the rules and regulations of any country you are in,” Baldoz said.
“If you have nothing to worry about, you can do you work properly and you will be able to realize what you came there for,” Baldoz added.
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=231386828480#sthash.5B0b6KiA.dpuf
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
VP Binay fears January execution of Joselito Zapanta if blood money is not paid
Joselito Zapanta, the overseas Filipino workers (OFW) on death row in
Saudi Arabia, may be executed in January if his family will not be able
to raise the blood money needed to save him.
This was according to Vice President Jejomar Binay, who renewed his appeal to Filipinos to contribute to the amount raised by the Philippine government, which currently stands at SR520,831 (P6,133,722).
“I would like to take this opportunity to appeal to our kababayans as the victim’s family is now becoming insistent,” said Binay, the presidential adviser on OFW concerns, in a statement Tuesday.
“We fear that the execution may happen in January if the blood money is not paid,” he added.
Zapanta was sentenced to death in 2009 for killing his Sudanese landlord allegedly out of self-defense. He was given reprieve several times in the past, once in November of last year, and another in March of this year.
Read the rest of the story at GMANews.tv
This was according to Vice President Jejomar Binay, who renewed his appeal to Filipinos to contribute to the amount raised by the Philippine government, which currently stands at SR520,831 (P6,133,722).
“I would like to take this opportunity to appeal to our kababayans as the victim’s family is now becoming insistent,” said Binay, the presidential adviser on OFW concerns, in a statement Tuesday.
“We fear that the execution may happen in January if the blood money is not paid,” he added.
Zapanta was sentenced to death in 2009 for killing his Sudanese landlord allegedly out of self-defense. He was given reprieve several times in the past, once in November of last year, and another in March of this year.
Read the rest of the story at GMANews.tv
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Advisory: Philippine Embassy in Riyadh Closed On 7 to 11 August
In its advisory from their website, Philippine Embassy in Riyadh will be closed on 7 to 11 August 2013 in observance of the Eid El-Fitr Holidays.
Regular working hours at the Embassy will resume on 12 August 2013 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
During the Holidays, Filipinos may contact the following numbers in case of emergencies:
For Labor-related issues – 0545917834
For other concerns 01-482-3559 / 482-3615.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Alert level 2 up in Egypt -- DFA
The Department of Foreign Affairs has raised the crisis alert level in
Egypt from 1 to level 2 as peace and order continues to deteriorate
in this middle eastern country.
In a press briefing today, DFA Assistant Secretary Raul Hernandez strongly advises Filipinos in Egypt to avoid protest areas, restrict their movements and prepare for possible evacuation should the political situation further deteriorate there.
He also said that processing of Filipinos seeking work in Egypt has been put on hold until further notice.
The public is also advised to postpone non-essential trips to Egypt.
"The embassy is ready 24/7 to respond to request for assistance," Hernandez said.(PIA Central/DFA)
source: PIA
In a press briefing today, DFA Assistant Secretary Raul Hernandez strongly advises Filipinos in Egypt to avoid protest areas, restrict their movements and prepare for possible evacuation should the political situation further deteriorate there.
He also said that processing of Filipinos seeking work in Egypt has been put on hold until further notice.
The public is also advised to postpone non-essential trips to Egypt.
"The embassy is ready 24/7 to respond to request for assistance," Hernandez said.(PIA Central/DFA)
source: PIA
Saturday, April 27, 2013
OFW Dies in Jeddah Consulate
An Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) who has been seeking assistance for
repatriation from the Philippine government since 2011 after he was
diagnosed with ulcer died Wednesday last week inside the consulate in
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesperson Raul Hernandez said repatriation is now being arranged for the Filipino who was identified by migrant rights watchdog Migrante as Danilo Grefadilyo of Sorsogon. Hernandez said the OFW was last seen resting alone in one of the benches of the consulate on April 3, long before undocumented Filipinos began camping out near the consulate.
Grefadilyo, who appeared sick and weak, told consulate officials that he has not eaten for several days due to digestion problems and that “the food he eats was being rejected by his stomach, said Hernandez. (Roy C. Mabasa)
source: TEMPO
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesperson Raul Hernandez said repatriation is now being arranged for the Filipino who was identified by migrant rights watchdog Migrante as Danilo Grefadilyo of Sorsogon. Hernandez said the OFW was last seen resting alone in one of the benches of the consulate on April 3, long before undocumented Filipinos began camping out near the consulate.
Grefadilyo, who appeared sick and weak, told consulate officials that he has not eaten for several days due to digestion problems and that “the food he eats was being rejected by his stomach, said Hernandez. (Roy C. Mabasa)
source: TEMPO
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Baldoz warns OFWs against fake receipts
The fake receipts were issued by some employees of manning agencies who reported the case to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, OWWA said.
Baldoz also instructed OWWA chief Carmelita Dimzon to publish notices and issue advisory to recruitment and manning agencies to put internal control mechanisms to prevent the illegal practice.
“The public should be well-advised on the matter for the safety of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Benefits may be compromised if the OFWs’ names are not registered as OWWA members. OWWA members are assured of the social and protection programs and services offered by the Agency,” Baldoz said.
For her part, Dimzon said OWWA is now coordinating with the National Bureau of Investigation to help investigate all possible sources of fake documents and bring to court those responsible.
source: Philstar
Friday, April 19, 2013
OFWs are ambassadors of the Philippines
“Remember that you are our ambassadors as well, so your actions also reflect on our country,” Binay reminded OFWs as he repeated his call on Philippine Embassy officials in Saudi Arabia to speed up the processing of papers of undocumented workers who needed to be sent back home and to runaways who needed shelter and legal assistance.
Reports say there are about 80 OFWs camping outside of the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah.
Binay, who is also the Presidential Adviser on OFW concerns, made the appeal as the KSA government implements the April 6 three-month reprieve issued by King Abdullah for foreign workers who have problems with their papers.
The reprieve delays the arrests of foreign workers as well as gives them the opportunity to correct their documents.
Working under employers who are not original sponsors is a violation of immigration laws in the Kingdom.
“For workers affected by the Saudization policy, they need to be able to legally transfer from their original sponsors to their current employers. Workers who have long run away from their original sponsors and no longer have valid residency permits or passports meanwhile are in a different category altogether. Theirs is an immigration problem and no longer a labor one,” the Vice President said.
Saudi Arabia, one of the favorite destinations of Filipino workers, is now observing Nizaqat: a government drive to provide more jobs to Saudi nationals.
There is no amnesty for foreigners illegally staying in Saudi Arabia.
source: Lyndon Plantilla/PIA Central Newsdesk
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Illegal Filipinos Numbers Up In Oman
Muscat:
There has been a 100-per cent increase in the number of Filipino
migrant workers who don't have any valid residency or work permits in
Oman, according to a newly released data.
The data, known as the 'Stock Estimate of Filipinos Overseas', presented by the Commission on Overseas Filipinos (CFO), showed that in 2011, there were some 6,400 undocumented Filipino workers in the Sultanate, whereas in 2010, the number was 3,000.
According to the Ministry of Manpower (MoM), some 12,000 expatriate workers are absconding in Oman, mainly in the fishing areas in the governorate of Al Wusta. "This is a pressing problem across all the governorates in the country. I request government departments, private-sector enterprises, and citizens to cooperate with the MoM to resolve this problem," a senior official of the MoM said.
Expressing shock over the rising figures, Chairperson of Filipino Community Social Club Janete Daang said it is very surprising that the number is so high even though the Philippines Embassy is doing a lot to reduce the number of undocumented Filipinos. "A large number of them enter illegally from other countries, which makes matters worse for us," she told Times of Oman.
Recently, the Philippines Embassy in Muscat closed an employment loophole, which enabled undocumented Filipino nationals to enter the Sultanate without the formal permission of the mission after fleeing from their sponsors in neighbouring countries.
Ernesto C. Bihis, Labour Attaché of the Philippines Embassy in Muscat, noted that all Filipino nationals working in Oman traditionally required a "no objection certificate" to be issued by their embassy in Muscat as part of the visa-application procedure.
"This is mandatory if they are hired from the Philippines," he remarked.
Earlier, migrants entering the country across the border had not been subjected to such procedures, creating a situation where the embassy was not able to properly vouch for them or for the employer.
"We know the embassy officials have managed to change the rule after continuous dialogue with Omani authorities since undocumented workers are more likely to end up with onerous contracts and to encounter immigration or labour cases," Janete Daang added.
Non-payment of salaries.
The most common reasons for their decision to run away from their employers in neighbouring countries are the non-payment of salaries and sometimes physical abuse by their employers. "From just 1,500 in the year 2000, the number of Filipinos without valid residence or work permits is steadily growing in Oman," noted the CFO report.
The Stock Estimate of Filipinos Overseas also showed that in 2011, there were only 140 permanent migrants (immigrants, dual citizens, or legal permanent residents) in the Sultanate, whose stay did not depend on work contracts.
The number of temporary migrants, including Filipinos who are employed overseas but are expected to return, stood at 43,318 in 2011. Students, trainees, entrepreneurs, and businessmen are also considered to be part of this category.
In 2011, there were 10.46 million overseas Filipinos — five per cent of international migrants worldwide — spread across 217 countries.
To avoid being tricked, the Department of Foreign Affairs has advised all job hunters to check the official list of labour-market opportunities on the Consulate General's website.
The CFO was established in 1980 to promote the interests of Filipino immigrants and permanent residents in other countries and to preserve and strengthen overseas Filipino communities all over the world .
The data covered 214 countries in 2009, 217 in 2010, and 227 in 2011, wherein the CFO noted there were 10.46 million overseas Filipinos, up from 8.6 million in 2009 and 9.5 million in 2010.
Part of the estimate was taken from the remittance records of overseas Filipinos and the departure/arrival documents filled out by immigrants at all airports and seaports in the Philippines.
source: Times of Oman
The data, known as the 'Stock Estimate of Filipinos Overseas', presented by the Commission on Overseas Filipinos (CFO), showed that in 2011, there were some 6,400 undocumented Filipino workers in the Sultanate, whereas in 2010, the number was 3,000.
According to the Ministry of Manpower (MoM), some 12,000 expatriate workers are absconding in Oman, mainly in the fishing areas in the governorate of Al Wusta. "This is a pressing problem across all the governorates in the country. I request government departments, private-sector enterprises, and citizens to cooperate with the MoM to resolve this problem," a senior official of the MoM said.
Expressing shock over the rising figures, Chairperson of Filipino Community Social Club Janete Daang said it is very surprising that the number is so high even though the Philippines Embassy is doing a lot to reduce the number of undocumented Filipinos. "A large number of them enter illegally from other countries, which makes matters worse for us," she told Times of Oman.
Recently, the Philippines Embassy in Muscat closed an employment loophole, which enabled undocumented Filipino nationals to enter the Sultanate without the formal permission of the mission after fleeing from their sponsors in neighbouring countries.
Ernesto C. Bihis, Labour Attaché of the Philippines Embassy in Muscat, noted that all Filipino nationals working in Oman traditionally required a "no objection certificate" to be issued by their embassy in Muscat as part of the visa-application procedure.
"This is mandatory if they are hired from the Philippines," he remarked.
Earlier, migrants entering the country across the border had not been subjected to such procedures, creating a situation where the embassy was not able to properly vouch for them or for the employer.
"We know the embassy officials have managed to change the rule after continuous dialogue with Omani authorities since undocumented workers are more likely to end up with onerous contracts and to encounter immigration or labour cases," Janete Daang added.
Non-payment of salaries.
The most common reasons for their decision to run away from their employers in neighbouring countries are the non-payment of salaries and sometimes physical abuse by their employers. "From just 1,500 in the year 2000, the number of Filipinos without valid residence or work permits is steadily growing in Oman," noted the CFO report.
The Stock Estimate of Filipinos Overseas also showed that in 2011, there were only 140 permanent migrants (immigrants, dual citizens, or legal permanent residents) in the Sultanate, whose stay did not depend on work contracts.
The number of temporary migrants, including Filipinos who are employed overseas but are expected to return, stood at 43,318 in 2011. Students, trainees, entrepreneurs, and businessmen are also considered to be part of this category.
In 2011, there were 10.46 million overseas Filipinos — five per cent of international migrants worldwide — spread across 217 countries.
To avoid being tricked, the Department of Foreign Affairs has advised all job hunters to check the official list of labour-market opportunities on the Consulate General's website.
The CFO was established in 1980 to promote the interests of Filipino immigrants and permanent residents in other countries and to preserve and strengthen overseas Filipino communities all over the world .
The data covered 214 countries in 2009, 217 in 2010, and 227 in 2011, wherein the CFO noted there were 10.46 million overseas Filipinos, up from 8.6 million in 2009 and 9.5 million in 2010.
Part of the estimate was taken from the remittance records of overseas Filipinos and the departure/arrival documents filled out by immigrants at all airports and seaports in the Philippines.
source: Times of Oman
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Former OFW Wins State Lottery
A former overseas Filipino worker (OFW) said
he was happy to win half of the 36.7 million pesos (Dh3.29 million)
from a government-run lottery because it could help his cancer-stricken
son, a local paper said.
The OFW, whose name was not released, was bankrupt and had lost all his savings since his son had started treatment for stage 4 cancer, said Malinao.
The OFW’s other younger son, a second-year college student, was also forced to drop out of school, said Malinao.
The OFW was relieved that his win could help him redeem the mortgage papers of his house which was recently foreclosed by the bank, according to PCSO General Manager Jose Ferdinand Rojas.
But above all, the OFW’s main concern, is the recovery of his bedridden son, said Rojas, adding this was the reason why the OFW was “not crying for joy” despite winning the PCSO’s top lottery this week.
The 60-year-old winner of the
March 17 lottery (lotto) draw of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes
Office (PCSO) was crying when he got his money, PCSO assistant budget
and accounting manager Paloma Malinao told the Philippine Star.
The OFW, whose name was not released, was bankrupt and had lost all his savings since his son had started treatment for stage 4 cancer, said Malinao.
The OFW’s other younger son, a second-year college student, was also forced to drop out of school, said Malinao.
The OFW was relieved that his win could help him redeem the mortgage papers of his house which was recently foreclosed by the bank, according to PCSO General Manager Jose Ferdinand Rojas.
But above all, the OFW’s main concern, is the recovery of his bedridden son, said Rojas, adding this was the reason why the OFW was “not crying for joy” despite winning the PCSO’s top lottery this week.
Friday, March 15, 2013
OFW Zapanta given 3-month reprieve — VP Binay
Vice President Jejomar Binay yesterday announced that Joselito Zapanta,
the overseas Filipino worker (OFW) scheduled for execution in Saudi
Arabia, has been given a three-month reprieve by the Saudi government.
At a press conference at the Coconut Palace, Binay, the presidential adviser for OFW Concerns, said Saudi King Abdullah has given an order to defer the execution of all qizas or death penalty cases in the Arab country, including that of Zapanta.
He said this was confirmed by Adbulaziz Abdulrahman Al Gaeit, the Assistant of the Undersecretary for Public Rights of the Emir’s Office, who met with the Philippine Embassy officials in Riyadh.
Binay said Zapanta’s reprieve begins the day after the deadline set by the victim’s relatives for the payment of the blood money.
However, the Vice President clarified that the reprieve did not mean that the deadline set for Zapanta’s family to pay the blood money has also been extended. “There is still no decision from the victim’s family on this matter. But this is to be given attention by our embassy in Riyadh,” he said. Binay again thanked King Abdullah “for yet another humanitarian gesture.”
“His benevolence has given our kababayan a three month lease on life, and his family additional time to raise the blood money,” he said. “We also wish to thank the Emir’s Office for their efforts in facilitating the amicable settlement and forgiveness, as well as the extension of the deadlines, allowing the maximum period for the settlement of the amount,” Binay added.
He also pointed to the work being done by the Philppine Ambassador to Saudi, Ambassador Tago and the entire officials and officers of in our Embassy, and the DFA headed by Secretary Albert del Rosario, in their efforts to help our countrymen abroad.”” he further said.
The Vice President also revealed that President Aquino and Zapanta’s mother, Maymona, both wrote King Abdullan on March 9 to ask for his help.
Binay said Zapanta and his mother were able to talk on March 10, when the latter, accompanied by Philippine Embassy officials, visited her son in jail.
The Vice President reiterated his appeal for help to come up with the full amount needed to secure Zapanta’s freedom.
source: Tribune
At a press conference at the Coconut Palace, Binay, the presidential adviser for OFW Concerns, said Saudi King Abdullah has given an order to defer the execution of all qizas or death penalty cases in the Arab country, including that of Zapanta.
He said this was confirmed by Adbulaziz Abdulrahman Al Gaeit, the Assistant of the Undersecretary for Public Rights of the Emir’s Office, who met with the Philippine Embassy officials in Riyadh.
Binay said Zapanta’s reprieve begins the day after the deadline set by the victim’s relatives for the payment of the blood money.
However, the Vice President clarified that the reprieve did not mean that the deadline set for Zapanta’s family to pay the blood money has also been extended. “There is still no decision from the victim’s family on this matter. But this is to be given attention by our embassy in Riyadh,” he said. Binay again thanked King Abdullah “for yet another humanitarian gesture.”
“His benevolence has given our kababayan a three month lease on life, and his family additional time to raise the blood money,” he said. “We also wish to thank the Emir’s Office for their efforts in facilitating the amicable settlement and forgiveness, as well as the extension of the deadlines, allowing the maximum period for the settlement of the amount,” Binay added.
He also pointed to the work being done by the Philppine Ambassador to Saudi, Ambassador Tago and the entire officials and officers of in our Embassy, and the DFA headed by Secretary Albert del Rosario, in their efforts to help our countrymen abroad.”” he further said.
The Vice President also revealed that President Aquino and Zapanta’s mother, Maymona, both wrote King Abdullan on March 9 to ask for his help.
Binay said Zapanta and his mother were able to talk on March 10, when the latter, accompanied by Philippine Embassy officials, visited her son in jail.
The Vice President reiterated his appeal for help to come up with the full amount needed to secure Zapanta’s freedom.
source: Tribune
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