Manila Bulletin
Senate to look into gov't treatment of OFWs during pandemic
Senator Joel Villanueva urges the government to intensify reintegration programs for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) returning to the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Villanueva emphasized the need for skills training through TESDA and other interventions to enhance OFW employability or encourage entrepreneurship.
He also called on the Department of Labor and Employment to improve coordination with various industries to identify labor demands and facilitate employment matching.
The senator stressed that aligning with labor market needs is a crucial step in reducing unemployment.
Villanueva also appealed for greater empathy towards OFWs, suggesting that the current treatment of returning workers does not align with the recognition they receive as "bagong bayani" (new heroes).
He stated that avoidable deaths due to hunger or depression among OFWs could be prevented with more compassion and urgent action from the government.
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Senator Risa Hontiveros filed Senate Resolution No. 445, calling for a legislative inquiry into the government's plans and programs for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Senator Bong Go is urging for the immediate passage of a bill that would create a Department of Overseas Filipino Workers (DOFW) to better address the needs of OFWs affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. has filed Senate Resolution 448, calling for a Senate inquiry into the government's repatriation process for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Malacañang expressed sadness over the death of a Filipino cruise ship worker who allegedly committed suicide while waiting for repatriation.
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