The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has pushed for stronger safeguards for Filipino migrant fisher workers, considered among the most vulnerable workers in the sea-based sector.
In a news release on Wednesday, the DMW said it sought closer cooperation with ASEAN countries on fair and ethical recruitment in a meeting with partners on Tuesday at its Central Office.
The meeting covered the ASEAN Declaration on Fair, Ethical, and Sustainable Recruitment and measures to protect migrant workers deployed to ASEAN countries.
Assistant Secretary Levinson Alcantara noted that the DMW prioritizes migrant fisher workers because of their vulnerability to abuse and exploitation.
“The Department of Migrant Workers has always considered the migrant fishermen the most vulnerable workers in the sea-based sector, and this is already a priority for us,” Alcantara said.
He said cooperation with neighboring countries could strengthen protections for Filipino workers.
“Having partners not just within the Philippines but also in the ASEAN neighborhood is an opportunity for us. So, we are grateful for your reaching out to us,” he said.
Assistant Secretary Jerome Alcantara also discussed measures to promote, protect, and fulfill the human rights of migrant fisher workers.
The DMW also discussed the need for clear rules on the licensing and monitoring of recruitment agencies and brokers involved in deploying migrant workers.
The department said responsible recruitment and stronger monitoring mechanisms could help prevent illegal recruitment, abuse, exploitation, and other labor violations involving overseas Filipino workers.
Daniel Awigra, co-founder of Better Engagement Between East and Southeast Asia (BEBESEA), joined the meeting and shared perspectives on human rights advocacy and migrant worker protection.
The discussions also covered the sharing of practices among ASEAN Member States to promote more consistent standards in the recruitment and deployment of migrant workers.
The DMW said stronger regional cooperation would help ensure that Filipino migrant fisher workers are recruited through fair and responsible processes and receive protection for their rights, welfare, safety and dignity throughout their migration and employment. (PNA)
