Bello allays workers’ fears on temporary travel ban to Taiwan

February 14, 2020

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III has allayed fears that the implementation of the temporary travel ban to Taiwan may have detrimental effects on overseas Filipino workers even as he expressed confidence that ban will be lifted soon.

Bello said he is in constant coordination with the Department of Health (DOH), and had requested the lifting of the ban on departing workers.

“For those who are affected by the travel ban in Taiwan, we ask for your patience and in a few days, there will be a review. While waiting for the lifting of the ban, we are providing financial assistance,” Bello said.

“We are seeking understanding from our OFWs because the implementation of a temporary ban by the DOH is for your own safety as well. We hope for a possible lifting of the ban in a few days,” Bello said. 

Bello said those members of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) who are affected by the ban are entitled to receive P10,000 financial assistance amid the crisis.

Bello said he is certain the result of the assessment will be positive, but in the meantime, affected OFWs were requested to wait for the next three to five days.

OWWA also offers stranded OFWs with accommodation, food, and transportation assistance. DMS