By Marita Moaje

REVIEW. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announces Wednesday (Jan. 22, 2025) that it is conducting a thorough review of its deployment policies for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to Kuwait. This followed after the recent tragic deaths of two OFWs in the Gulf nation. (Photo courtesy of DFA)

MANILA – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is reviewing its policies on deploying overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to Kuwait after the recent deaths of two Filipino workers.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the review aims to strengthen protective measures for household workers and ensure their welfare.

“We are reviewing our deployment policies and also trying to review ‘yung kapakanan ng mga matatagal ng OFWs na nandoon sa (the welfare of those OFWs who have been staying for years in) Kuwait,” Cacdac said in a press release on Wednesday.

The tragic deaths of Jenny Alvarado, who died allegedly after inhaling smoke from a heating system in their workplace, and Dafnie Nacalaban, who was found dead after being reported missing for two months, prompted the review, Cacdac said.

The two cases are now being investigated by Kuwaiti authorities and the Philippine government.

Also, the DMW is looking at the legal responsibilities of the service provider who mishandled the repatriation of Alvarado’s remains. 

Currently, the DMW prohibits the deployment of first-time OFWs or those without previous overseas work experience to Kuwait as part of its efforts to safeguard Filipino workers from potential exploitation or danger.

Measures such as pre-departure briefings, recruiter blacklisting, and electronic monitoring are being implemented to protect workers.

Meanwhile, the department has assured support for the victims’ families.

Senator Raffy Tulfo earlier sought a total deployment ban of Filipino household workers to Kuwait, citing the need for stricter protections.

The DMW continues to explore stricter policies to prevent further tragedies and uphold the safety of Filipino workers abroad. (PNA)