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Friday, February 7, 2025

DMW eyes ban on OFWs to Kuwait

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said the agency is contemplating a ban on the deployment of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to Kuwait following the recent deaths of two Filipinas, Dafnie Nacalaban and Jenny Alvarado, in the Middle Eastern country.

DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac mentioned that the possibility of a deployment ban in Kuwait is being considered, saying: “At this stage, what I can say is that the President is informed about the situation and the cases.”

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Currently, the Philippines already prohibits first-time domestic workers from being deployed to Kuwait.

Cacdac also noted that the DMW is considering imposing stricter rules and requirements for the deployment of Filipino migrant workers to the country. “If our review suggests that suspending deployment will be helpful, then we will take that action. We must prioritize the safety of our kababayan while also protecting their employment opportunities,” he added.

Cacdac also said the DMW is digging deeper into the death of Alvarado, following reports that she and two others succumbed to coal smoke inhalation in their employer’s vacation home.

“We want to dig deeper into the matter to determine if there was foul play,” Cacdac said Saturday. “We are looking into whether the employer provided adequate guidance and ensured safety in their vacation home.”

Alvarado reportedly died on Jan. 2 due to fumes from a coal stove used overnight in a poorly ventilated room. Two other domestic workers, a Nepalese and a Sri Lankan, also perished in the incident. The workers were in the home as part of a New Year’s retreat by their employer.

Cacdac confirmed that Alvarado’s remains were repatriated on Jan. 18 and are now under examination by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

The DMW is also exploring potential legal action against the employer for negligence.

Additionally, Cacdac addressed a mishap involving an earlier misidentification of remains repatriated on Jan. 15. He said the department is reviewing the liability of the service provider responsible for shipping the wrong cadaver.

“Our legal team in Kuwait is evaluating the case to ensure accountability and possible compensation for the family,” Cacdac said.

Cacdac dismissed concerns that the incident would affect the performance of other Filipino workers abroad. While foul play remains a possibility, Cacdac emphasized reliance on legal and scientific findings. The NBI is expected to provide updates during a Senate hearing on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the DMW  continues to assist Alvarado’s family as they seek justice and closure.

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