The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has reassured that the work situation for Filipino workers in South Korea remains stable and unaffected by recent political developments. In a statement from Mandaluyong City, DMW Undersecretary Felicitas Bay emphasized that there are no travel restrictions between the Philippines and South Korea, and Filipino workers are continuing their jobs without any interruptions.
Bay highlighted that the situation in South Korea is described as stable and peaceful. She noted that students are attending classes as usual, and Filipino educators and workers under the Employment Permit System (EPS) have reported no issues with their work. Despite some political unrest and discussions about potential martial law, these have not impacted the safety or employment of Filipino workers in the country.
Recent arrivals of Filipino workers under the EPS have been smooth, with 51 regular workers and 68 returning workers arriving on December 2. Further deployments are planned for December 10 and December 16, with 122 and 130 regular workers respectively, along with 52 returning workers on the latter date.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated that the Philippine Embassy in South Korea, led by Ambassador Maria Theresa Dizon-De Vega, is closely monitoring the situation. The embassy remains confident in South Korea’s ability to maintain safety and order, ensuring the safety of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
The Migrant Workers Office and the Philippine Embassy in Seoul continue to be available to support and assist OFWs and other Filipinos in South Korea. For families seeking information about their loved ones, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) – DMW hotline, 1348, is accessible to help Filipino workers, including seasonal farm laborers and professionals.
Currently, there are approximately 36,186 Filipinos working in South Korea, with 25,895 of them employed under the EPS.