Manila, Philippines — Filipino domestic workers abroad are assured of stronger protection and improved opportunities following the signing of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Advisory on enhanced reform programs anchored on international labor standards for fair and ethical recruitment.
The move aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to uplift the dignity and well-being of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Through the formal adoption of these reforms, the DMW aims to further safeguard the rights, welfare, and dignity of Filipino domestic workers.
“There are eight components for these domestic worker reforms, which reinforce our commitment to decent work, ethical recruitment, and strengthened welfare mechanisms for Filipino domestic workers deployed abroad,” said Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac.
Key Reforms for Domestic Workers
The reform package includes the following measures:
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Increased Minimum Wage — Monthly wage raised from USD 400 to at least USD 500, recognizing domestic work as work of equal value deserving fair compensation.
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Free Medical Benefits — Annual check-ups and hospitalization/treatment for domestic workers, initially on a voluntary and no-cost basis.
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Mandatory “Know Your Employer” (KYE) Protocol — Transparency and informed consent ensured through video conferencing before contract finalization.
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“Kumusta Kabayan?” Digital Welfare Monitoring System — Direct digital welfare checks on OFWs’ working conditions.
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Reskilling and Career Mobility Programs — Opportunities for continuous upskilling and employability enhancement.
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Stricter Standards for Recruitment Agency Accommodation Facilities.
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Whitelisting Policy — Recognition of recruitment agencies with proven compliance and ethical practices.
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Rights-Based Assistance — Expanded legal and other forms of aid under the DMW AKSYON Fund.
Implementation and Transition Period
Cacdac emphasized that the new wage standard will be integrated into all employment contracts processed by the DMW. Migrant Workers Offices (MWOs) are directed to coordinate with host governments and foreign recruitment agencies to ensure its full implementation.
To allow adjustment, the DMW set a 60-day transition period for the first four reforms. “We will allow ourselves a transition period of 60 days after the issuance of the advisory, which I will sign today,” Cacdac said. The advisory will cover all recruitment agencies and employers, whether hiring newly deployed workers or renewing contracts of returning OFWs.
Consultation and Legacy
The advisory was issued after thorough consultation with concerned stakeholders to ensure greater protection for domestic workers, especially those in vulnerable job categories.
The signing also coincided with the second death anniversary of the late Secretary Susan “Toots” V. Ople, a staunch advocate of the rights and welfare of Filipino domestic workers.
With these reforms, the DMW underscores its mission to advance the welfare of OFWs while upholding fair, ethical, and rights-based labor practices worldwide.
