Bello asks OFWs bound for Kuwait to understand why POEA imposed total deployment ban

January 17, 2020

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) appealed to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs)  bound for Kuwait to understand why the Philippine government had to impose a total deployment ban.

In an interview, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said: "We hope they understand our position because a total deployment ban was reached in order to prevent a repeat of what happened to Ms Villavende."

Jeanelyn Villavende was allegedly killed recently by her employer in Kuwait last December.

"We don't want that if we send our workers, they will again be exposed to dangers of brutal treatment and abuses, including sexual abuses," he said.

Bello said they are even prepared to meet with workers that were prevented from departing for Kuwait.

"If they want to see me, I'm willing to meet them and explain the position of the Department and the reason for our position," said Bello.

On Wednesday, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) issued a total deployment ban to Kuwait. DMS