OVERSEAS Filipino Workers (OFWs) should never have to sacrifice their dignity and safety in their pursuit of a better life for their families.
This was the strong message from ACT-CIS Partylist Representative and House Deputy Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo, as he announced his plan to file a bill aimed at enhancing OFW protection when the 19th Congress resumes session in June.
“We cannot rely solely on the compliance of foreign employers with pre-deployment requirements. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and other related agencies must triple their efforts in ensuring that employment contracts are strictly followed—whatever it takes,” Tulfo said as he spoke to the Filipino Community in Paris, France for the Barrio Fiesta 2025 celebration.
The lawmaker will file a measure to strengthen the Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLOs) and streamline case handling by the DMW, OWWA, and embassies to swiftly address OFW grievances and prevent contract violations.
“Our hardworking OFWs must be able to fight for their rights, and they can only do this if they are assured that their government will fully protect them,” Tulfo added.
A staunch advocate for OFW rights, Tulfo has previously filed pro-OFW bills such as the “Free OFW Financial Education Act” and the “Overseas Filipino Workers’ Fraud Protection Act.”
“We will not stop filing necessary measures and ensuring strict enforcement until we completely eradicate the abuses against OFWs,” the solon stressed.
He concluded: “We can no longer settle for the bare minimum when it comes to the rights and welfare of OFWs. This is not just about their livelihood—it is a matter of life and death.”
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