Pinoy workers in Kuwait ‘chicken feet’ protest get help


About 200 workers, 100 of them Filipinos, have been taking part in a so-called "chicken feet" protest in Kuwait to protest the non-payment of their wages for months, a Kuwait news site reported late Thursday.

The "chicken feet" strike is so called because the men were forced to beg for food and alms to survive – going to Khaitan or Farwaniya to ask for free chicken feet from fresh chicken shops just to survive, Kuwait Times reported.

Philippine Labor Attache to Kuwait Cesar Chavez assured the workers of assistance until the case is resolved, saying his office has spoken to the employers' representatives.

“We spoke to the company representatives. What we requested them to do is to give the salary immediately so that they can send money home. They have families to feed back home so that is the immediate need. Then, we’ll see all the legalities," he said.

He added their employers appear to be cooperating, and that they already filed a case with the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor.

"(T)hey were told to report back on 25 March. We’ll see the decision of MSAL and we’ll move from there,” he said.

But he also cited the responsibility of the recruitment agency based in Manila for the Filipinos, who are employed as foremen, electricians, pipe fitters, plumbers, air-conditioning technicians and welders.

The Kuwait Times report said the workers are paid between KD120 to KD300.

However, it also noted labor strikes are illegal and those striking can face jail time, fines or worse, deportation.

Help from community

As of this week, the workers are getting help from the Philippine embassy and the local Filipino community, which had brought them food and basic needs.

“If not because of the Kuwait Times report we will not be even acknowledged and no one will ever know about our plight here. We are thankful from the bottom of our hearts,” said Marvin, the group's spokesman.

For their part, Filipino groups sent donations within 24 hours after Kuwait Times posted a story about the workers' situation.

Bishop Jun Nones of the Evangelical Church (FLCC) said they are planning a medical mission to Wafra and Khaitan camps to address their medical needs. — Joel Locsin/LBG, GMA News

More from: http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/451605/pinoyabroad/news/pinoy-workers-in-kuwait-chicken-feet-protest-get-help 

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