35 abused OFWs repatriated from Kuwait

Thirty-five distressed Filipino workers, including those who experienced physical abuse from their employers, are set to arrive in the Philippines on Wednesday from Kuwait, according to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
"The repatriates experienced various labor and welfare-related issues with their employers that include non-payment of salaries, mistreatment/maltreatment, long working hours, among others," the OWWA said in a statement.
The repatriates all worked as household service workers (HSWs) in Kuwait.
The government is considering a temporary suspension on the deployment of Filipino household helpers to Kuwait due to reports of abuses against OFWs, particularly female HSWs, there.
Last month, Filipina domestic helper Jakatia Pawa was executed for killing her employer's 22-year-old daughter in 2007. She had maintained her innocence until her execution.
Also last month, Filipina household service worker Amy Capulong Santiago died in a hospital where she was brought after reportedly being abused by her employer.
Meanwhile, the OWWA said all necessary assistance will be extended to the 35 new repatriates.
"Aside from airport assistance accorded to the distressed workers including facilitating  the release of travel documents from the Bureau of Customs and Bureau of Immigration, OFWs who have no place to stay in Metro Manila will be temporarily accommodated at the OWWA Halfway Home," it said.
It added that those having financial problems will be given transportation fares and  will be accompanied to the bus terminals  onward to their respective provinces.
"Those who have legal issues and concerns with their agencies  such as non-payment of salaries will be offered legal advise through  the Single-Entry Approach  (SEnA) Program," OWWA said. —KBK, GMA News

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