In a move to provide strengthened protection and enhanced opportunities for Filipino domestic workers, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has signed a new advisory on a comprehensive reform program anchored to international labor standards. The advisory formalizes the DMW’s commitment to upholding the rights, dignity, and welfare of Filipino migrant workers.
The initiative aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. to ensure the well-being of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and follows extensive consultations with various stakeholders.
“These eight components for domestic workers reforms reinforce our commitment to decent work, ethical recruitment, and strengthened welfare mechanisms for Filipino domestic workers deployed abroad,” said Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac.
The new reforms, which were issued to coincide with the second death anniversary of the late Migrant Workers Secretary Susan “Toots” V. Ople, a staunch advocate for domestic workers, include the following key provisions:
- Increased Minimum Monthly Wage: A new minimum wage floor of at least $500 (USD), up from the previous $400, to ensure fair compensation and recognize domestic work as work of equal value.
- Annual Medical Check-ups: Initial voluntary, free-of-charge medical check-ups and hospitalization/treatment for domestic workers.
- Mandatory “Know Your Employer” (KYE) Protocol: A requirement for a video conference between domestic workers and their prospective employers before contract finalization to ensure transparency and informed consent.
- “Kumusta Kabayan?” Digital Welfare Monitoring System: A direct digital platform for welfare checks on the conditions of OFWs.
- Reskilling, Upskilling, and Career Mobility Program: Continuous training to enhance the employability and opportunities for domestic workers.
- Stricter Standards for Recruitment Agencies: Stronger regulations for accommodation facilities.
- Whitelisting Policy for Recruitment Agencies: A new policy to identify and promote agencies with a proven track record of ethical practices and compliance.
- Legal and Other Forms of Assistance: Continuous, rights-based support through the DMW AKSYON Fund.
Secretary Cacdac stated that the new wage standard will be integrated into all employment contracts processed by the DMW. Migrant Workers Offices (MWOs) are also directed to work with host governments and foreign recruitment agencies to ensure the new standard is discussed and implemented.
A 60-day transition period will be provided for the implementation of the first four reforms, which will apply to all recruitment agencies and employers with newly hired or returning domestic workers.
