Deployment ban of Filipino workers to Ukraine in place — Bello

A total deployment ban has been implemented for Filipinos who plan to work in Ukraine, according to a report on "Saksi" on Friday.

The temporary deployment ban includes "direct hires."

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) said the forced repatriation of Pinoys in Ukraine is ongoing.

Russia invaded Ukraine more than two weeks ago and shelling continues to this day.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) raised Alert Level 4 in Ukraine on March 7 due to the deteriorating security situation that threatens the safety of Filipinos there.

"Walang makakapunta kahit direct hire except kung manggagaling sa ibang lugar 'yan. Halimbawa, nasa Hong Kong na ay tutuloy ka dun wala nang magagawa," said Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III.

(No one will be able to go [to Ukraine] to work, even direct hires, except if coming from another place. For instance, if someone goes to Ukraine from Hong Kong, we cannot do anything about it.) —BAP/KG, GMA News