FILE. Family members of the three OFWs who died during a fire in Kuwait mourn over the remains of their loved ones at NAIA cargo area where they received them. Photo courtesy of DMW

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has announced significant strides in the protection and deployment of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to Kuwait following recent diplomatic negotiations.

During a press briefing on June 25, DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac confirmed that Kuwait is set to relax entry and work visa restrictions imposed since May 2023, enabling the return of professional, skilled, and semi-skilled Filipino workers.

Secretary Cacdac highlighted that the deployment will proceed once comprehensive policy guidelines are issued, emphasizing strengthened protections implemented under the late Secretary Susan "Toots" Ople. These include a Blacklist and Whitelist system for recruitment agencies and employers, electronic payment of salaries to ensure timely wages, and the appointment of welfare officers to assist OFWs throughout their migration process.

The agreement, reached on June 23, 2024, establishes a joint technical working committee between both nations to address labor-related issues promptly. Secretary Cacdac expressed gratitude for Kuwait's cooperation, emphasizing the positive bilateral relations cultivated since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal's meeting in October 2023.

In addition to facilitating OFW deployments, DMW Undersecretary Bernard P. Olalia and Philippine Ambassador to Kuwait H.E. Jose Cabrera III, along with Kuwaiti officials, discussed legal actions for victims of recent incidents, including a fire in Mangaf and the murder of OFW Jullebee Ranara.

The agreement marks a significant step forward in enhancing protections and opportunities for OFWs in Kuwait, reflecting ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and safeguard Filipino workers abroad.