The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has recently signed a bilateral agreement with several countries to promote safe and legal migration of Filipino workers abroad. This agreement aims to protect the rights and welfare of Filipino migrant workers and establish a partnership between the government and the host countries.
One of the key provisions of this agreement is the protection of Filipino workers from illegal recruitment and human trafficking. Host countries are required to strictly implement their own laws against these illegal activities and collaborate with the Philippine government to prevent their occurrence. This will help to ensure that Filipino workers are not exploited or subject to abusive practices while working abroad.
The bilateral agreement also covers the issue of labor standards and working conditions. Host countries are required to provide Filipino workers with the same rights and benefits that are given to their own citizens. This includes fair wages, benefits, and working conditions, as well as access to social security and other benefits. In return, Filipino workers are expected to comply with the laws and regulations of the host country.
The POEA will be responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with the bilateral agreement. This includes conducting inspections of recruitment agencies and employers to ensure that they are complying with the terms of the agreement. The agency will also provide assistance to Filipino workers who encounter problems or difficulties while working abroad.
Overall, the POEA`s bilateral agreement is a significant step towards promoting safe and legal migration for Filipino workers. It will help to protect their rights and welfare while working abroad, and establish a framework for cooperation between the Philippine government and host countries. By working together, we can ensure that Filipino migrant workers are treated fairly and with dignity, and that their contributions to the global workforce are recognized and respected.