In a statement, Human Rights Commissioner and focal person of Migrant Workers’ Act Gwendolyn Pimentel-Gana urged the Philippine government to limit the deployment of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to countries that agreed to protect the rights of OFWs.
Commissioner Gana reminded that one of the main provisions of the law is the need for improved monitoring of OFW deployments. This includes making sure that the foreign countries where OFWs will be sent are implementing labor and social laws that protect the rights not only of local workers but also that of migrant workers.
“The law is very clear. For it to be properly implemented, we need stronger and sustainable partnerships between and among government and the private sector, as well as civil society and OFW groups to ensure that migrant workers’ rights are being monitored,” Gana stated.
Gana also stated that the death of Joanna Demafelis is a manifestation of the risks OFWs are confronted with. She also recognized that victims of abuse abroad should always be remembered.
“Joanna’s tragic death on the hands of her cruel employers underscore the need to ensure that every aggrieved OFW has access to justice in the country where he or she works,” Commissioner Gana said, adding that “We must always remember Joanna and other victims like her so that our resolve to undertake reforms remains strong and unwavering.”
Moreover, Gana noted the need for OFWs who may be suffering emotionally or mentally to undergo psychosocial and medical treatments.
“These women may be suffering from mental and emotional anguish that is not easily detected with the naked eye. They need counseling and in some cases, medical treatment,” Gana said.
CHR has expressed its support toward the government’s actions to promote stronger protection for OFWs following the death of Joanna Demafelis whose body was found inside a freezer of an apartment in the Gulf state.
