DOLE scales down OFW deployment to HK, Macau, South Korea due to COVID-19

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is scaling down the deployment of newly hired Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to Hong Kong, Macau, and South Korea due to COVID-19 concerns.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III stated that the government is observing the situation before proceeding with new deployments.

While travel bans to Hong Kong and Macau for new hires and returning workers have been lifted, South Korea has implemented travel restrictions for most travelers.

However, permanent residents, students, and OFWs are still permitted to travel to South Korea if they acknowledge the associated risks in writing.

Bello expressed happiness that OFWs are excluded from the travel ban to South Korea, noting that no Filipino has been infected there despite a significant number of cases.

A 29-year-old Filipina domestic helper in Hong Kong has tested positive for COVID-19 and is in isolation, while another Filipino remains in quarantine.

The Philippine Consulate in Hong Kong is closely monitoring the condition of Filipino nationals and providing necessary assistance.