By Marita Moaje
MANILA – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is set to host a one-day forum together with the International Labor Organization (ILO) that focuses on strengthening the protection of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) against abuse, harassment, and violence.
In a news release Tuesday, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the forum will be held during the two-day mission visit to the Philippines by ILO Assistant Director-General for Governance, Rights and Dialogue Manuel Tomie on Feb. 26 to 27.
The forum will focus on the ILO Domestic Workers Convention 189 and the Violence and Harassment Convention 190.
Cacdac said the forum would help assess the DMW’s compliance with the convention while reinforcing the department’s commitment to a rights-based approach to protecting OFWs and their families.
He said the ILO Conventions are landmark instruments that promote the protection of the dignity and safety of all workers, particularly domestic workers who are vulnerable to abuse.
“These conventions are relevant for our OFWs, who may face various forms of violence and harassment in their workplaces abroad, such as physical, psychological, sexual, or economic harm,” Cacdac explained.
The Philippines has ratified 39 ILO Conventions, including Conventions 189 and 190, both of which remain in force.
Government agencies and key stakeholders will participate in the forum to review how these conventions are being implemented worldwide.
It would also highlight best practices, including the Philippines’ approach to upholding labor rights. (PNA)
