Title
Code of Discipline for Overseas Filipino Workers
Law
Poea Memorandum Circular No. 4 S. 1983
Decision Date
Feb 18, 1992
The Code of Discipline mandates that Filipino contract workers abroad adhere to their employment contracts, respect local laws and customs, and uphold their responsibilities to family, fellow workers, and the Philippines, with violations subject to disciplinary actions.
A

Duty to Family

  • Provide ample financial and moral support to family.
  • Maintain regular communication to ensure familial presence despite physical distance.

Duty to Fellow Contract Workers

  • Assist and cooperate with fellow Filipino workers at the same worksite.
  • Avoid undermining colleagues for personal gain or rank.
  • Do not withhold information that could unfairly disadvantage other workers.

Duty to the Country

  • Uphold the ideals of the Republic of the Philippines and be ready to defend them.
  • Follow rules and regulations set by government entities to promote national interests.
  • Act as Ambassador of Goodwill, maintaining a positive Filipino image abroad.

Duty to Agency and Employer

  • Provide truthful information regarding qualifications and experiences.
  • Understand and comply with employment contract conditions.
  • Maintain productivity and adhere to company rules and regulations.

Duty to Host Country

  • Learn and respect host country’s customs, traditions, and laws.
  • Obey the legal requirements and norms of the host nation.

Grounds for Disciplinary Action

  • Breach of the Code of Discipline or commission of specific offenses:
    • Commission of felony under Philippine or host country laws.
    • Drug addiction, possession, or trafficking.
    • Desertion or abandonment.
    • Gambling where prohibited.
    • Drunkenness where prohibited.
    • Mutiny or inciting illegal strikes.
    • Smuggling or violating customs laws.
    • Creating trouble at workplace or onboard vessel.
    • Embezzlement of company funds or peers’ entrusted property.
    • Theft, robbery, prostitution.
    • Vandalism or destruction of property.
    • Gunrunning or possession of deadly weapons.

Filing Complaints for Breach of Discipline

  • Complaints must be filed with the Adjudication Department.
  • Must be supported by substantial proof of breach.

Disciplinary Actions by Administration

  • Administration may initiate disciplinary measures on its own upon breach.

Penalties Imposable

  • Stern warning.
  • Payment or refund of repatriation costs.
  • Confiscation of performance bond.
  • Suspension or permanent disqualification from overseas employment.
  • Penalties do not preclude civil or criminal liabilities in courts.

Effectivity

  • The Code of Discipline took effect starting March 16, 1983.

Analyze Cases Smarter, Faster
Jur helps you analyze cases smarter to comprehend faster, building context before diving into full texts. AI-powered analysis, always verify critical details.