Question & AnswerQ&A (PROCLAMATION NO. 539)
The FCWAP is a program that allows Filipino construction workers who have completed the Construction Technical Intern Training Program (CTITP) to be employed in designated construction activities in Japan for a specified period.
A Foreign Construction Worker is a worker who has completed the CTITP and is engaged in Designated Construction Activities in Japan under a labor contract with an Accepting Construction Company.
The SO is responsible for selecting appropriate FCW candidates, processing legal documentation in the Philippines, informing workers about the program, monitoring the deployed workers in coordination with DSOs, and assisting in resolving problems such as accidents or worker runaways.
DSOs inspect and ensure that ACCs properly implement designated construction activities, coordinate with SOs, monitor working conditions, provide consultation support to FCWs, and cooperate with POLO Tokyo in resolving welfare and labor issues.
FCWs must stay alone in Japan without bringing family, not engage in income activities outside their authorized work, must keep their passport and residence card at all times, and must return home after completing their designated construction activities.
FCWs should be paid salaries equal to or higher than those paid to Japanese workers with similar skill levels, reflecting their experience gained from the technical intern training.
No, collection of fees or deposits from FCWs or their families for placement, selection, or deployment under FCWAP is strictly prohibited. All such charges must be borne by the DSOs or Sending Organizations as applicable.
FCWs must be covered by workers' accident compensation insurance, health insurance, employees pension insurance, and unemployment insurance, with costs shared equally by the employers and workers.
They must have POLO accreditation, submit various supporting documents such as Special Power of Attorney or Recruitment Agreements, job orders, business licenses, MLIT certifications, supervision plans, and master employment contracts.
The registration is valid for up to four years unless revoked earlier due to expiration of business license, mutual agreement to pre-terminate, falsification of documents, or legal disciplinary actions.