Migrante calls for increased aid for OFWs affected by travel ban

Migrante International is urging the Philippine government to provide increased support and compensation for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) affected by travel bans implemented due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

The group stated that the P10,000 assistance offered by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is insufficient for OFWs who have lost income and employment opportunities.

A group of OFWs employed in Hong Kong, organized as #StrandedPH, has appealed to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to ask the Philippine government to revoke the travel ban and allow them to return to their jobs.

Joms Ortega, a representative of #StrandedPH, stated that many lives have been affected and they are willing to sign any waiver as long as the government allows their travel.

Some Filipino domestic workers in Hong Kong have already lost their jobs and experienced a 'no work, no pay' situation due to their inability to return.

The advocacy group also expects the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to engage with foreign authorities to help facilitate visa extensions for affected Filipino migrant workers and students.

Migrante International chapters are actively providing assistance to distressed OFWs and migrants impacted by the travel ban and flight cancellations.