Villar cites the need for medical workers to assist OFWs

MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Manuel Villar on Thursday urged the Senate committee on labor to inquire on the need deploy medical workers in foreign countries, where overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are concentrated, as many them fail to get proper medical attention abroad. In filing Senate Resolution No. 589, Villar said the government should deploy health attachés and doctors in Philippine diplomatic offices to protect migrant workers since many of them are in grave need of medical assistance. He cited the case of Evelyn Milo, a worker in Abu Dhabi, who allegedly from committed suicide by jumping off a building on August 10. Villar said her remains bore puzzling marks of foul play. Villar cited a provision in the Constitution which states that “the State shall afford full protection to labor, local and overseas, organized and unorganized, and promote full employment and equality of employment opportunities for all." He noted that it is the declared policy in Republic Act 8042 that the protection of the Filipino migrant workers and the promotion of their welfare, and the protection of the dignity and fundamental rights and freedom of the Filipino citizens abroad, in general, shall be the highest priority concern of the Philippine Foreign Service posts." He said the medical needs of the OFWs should be given priority instead of requiring all departing OFWs to undergo a mandatory psychiatric test, saying it is an additional burden to them in terms of costs. “Philippine diplomacy should be OFW-centered and pursuing our workers’ best interests, especially decent working conditions which enhance their well-being," Villar said. - Aie Balagtas See, GMANews.TV