To prevent abuse and exploitation of those who want to become overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), senatorial aspirant Ben Tulfo proposed the creation of Regional Help Desks nationwide.
“The help desk is where our countrymen who want to become OFWs can ask questions. There is one set up in every barangay and the local government should also be aware of it. It is better for them to be registered before leaving so that they can be guided,” he said.
Tulfo, in a recent gathering in Tarlac City attended by an estimated 4,500 families of OFWs and returning OFWs, said this was the answer to the problem of illegal recruitment and human trafficking by unscrupulous agencies and recruiters.
He said the help desk was a “proactive approach” for OFWs.
“First, they will recruit, exploit those who want to go abroad under the guise of training you. They will make you live in their house like sardines. You will not be paid but you will be made to work. That is a form of exploitation,” Tulfo said.
“Second, they will make you sign a contract right away without you knowing what you are signing. That is why the help desk is very important to help you before you sign,” the senatorial candidate added.