Senators urge review of OFW protections after deaths in Kuwait

Senators Joel Villanueva and Raffy Tulfo on Monday urged government agencies to review and strengthen enforcement of bilateral agreements protecting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) following the deaths of two Filipinas in Kuwait.

Villanueva emphasized the need for stricter recruitment policies and compliance by host countries, such as Kuwait, to safeguard the welfare of OFWs.

Tulfo proposed reinstating a deployment ban on household workers to Kuwait after another migrant worker died from coal suffocation in January, urging government agencies to implement additional requirements like neuro testing.

DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac said they are reviewing their policies and considering stricter measures following the recent deaths of two OFWs, including Jenny Alvarado who allegedly died from smoke inhalation and Dafnie Nacalaban found dead after being missing for two months.

The department is studying Tulfo's proposal for stricter requirements and possible suspension of deployment to Kuwait while also investigating legal responsibilities of service providers involved in repatriating the remains of deceased workers.

Cacdac noted that the DMW is reassessing its policies on deploying OFWs to Kuwait, aiming to bolster protections for Filipino workers, particularly domestic helpers. The department is examining current guidelines and considering stricter measures like pre-departure briefings and electronic monitoring.

Both officials agreed that there should be screening for future Kuwait employers of OFWs to ensure their safety and well-being, while DFA Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega expressed cautious support with potential diplomatic repercussions in mind.