HK seeks PHL's input on policy involving OFWs

The Hong Kong government has sought the Philippine government's input regarding its labor policy affecting migrant workers, according to Consul General Bernardita L. Catalla.
Catalla paid a courtesy call on Hong Kong Secretary for Labour and Welfare Stephen Sui Wai-keung last March 15 during which she expressed her appreciation for the close coordination and open relationship between the Philippine Consulate General and the Hong Kong Labour and Welfare Bureau.
In particular, Catalla highlighted the Technical Working Group between the Consulate and the HK Labour and Immigration Departments, which has allowed the Philippine government to input into the policy-making processes of the Hong Kong government and provided a venue to exchange information on issues involving Filipino workers in Hong Kong.
Sui, for his part, ensured Catalla that his bureau is continuously working on initiatives for foreign domestic workers in Hong Kong, including Filipino domestic workers, who he said are vital in allowing mothers and family caregivers to enter the workforce.
He also fully agreed that close relations between their offices allowed policies and regulations which improved the working conditions of Filipino workers in Hong Kong.
Sui and Catalla also discussed issues affecting OFWs in Hong Kong, including exorbitant placement fees collected by recruitment agencies, live-out arrangements and fixed work hours, and the 14-day rule for terminated Filipino domestic workers.
Both offices agreed to form a stronger partnership and continue to work closely together on labor-related matters. —Rie Takumi/KBK, GMA News
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