Reported Cases by Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) and DOLE Mobile Reintegration Team
- Skilled workers affected by economic slowdown in Korea released early by employers.
- Workers obtain Labor Market Opinions (LMOs) from Canadian employers and visa approvals from Canadian Embassy in Korea.
- Purpose is to transition directly to employment contracts in new countries without returning home.
Risks of Irregular Migration Through Unregistered Employment Transfers
- Workers bypass formal Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) registration.
- Resulting in ineligibility for government welfare benefits provided to regular OFWs.
- Potential legal and protection issues due to absence of official documentation and affiliation.
Encouragement for OFW Registration to Safeguard Worker Protection and Benefits
- Workers advised to register as OFWs despite changing countries onsite.
- Registration enables access to government protection and welfare services.
Methods of Registration for Continuing Employment Abroad
- Voluntary registration with Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
- Notice to POLO, Embassy, or Consulate at original worksite indicating intent to transfer employment abroad.
- Notice to the POLO, Embassy, or Consulate at new jobsite informing arrival and employment details.
Role of POLOs in Protecting OFWs During Global Economic Challenges
- POLO Korea and other offices tasked with disseminating information on registration and migration protocols.
- Goal to protect employment opportunities and welfare of OFWs amid global financial crisis.
- Emphasis on proactive guidance for workers engaging in cross-country employment transitions.
Administrative Endorsement
- Advisory adopted on April 15, 2009, under the authority of Administrator Jennifer Jardin-Manalili.
- Reflects government policy aimed at regulating OFW employment transitions and ensuring worker welfare.