Manila: A staff member of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Bahrain is set to face an investigation after being recalled by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac. This action follows a viral video showing the staff member engaging in a disrespectful argument with overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
According to Philippines News Agency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has expressed dissatisfaction with the behavior of the MWO staff member and has instructed Secretary Cacdac to conduct an investigation and take necessary actions. In a statement on Radyo Pilipinas, Cacdac apologized to the OFW community in Bahrain, labeling the staff member's conduct as unacceptable.
Cacdac stated, "We recalled him as of yesterday. The decision is final. He will return to face an investigation." He further apologized to OFWs worldwide, emphasizing that such behavior is not representative of the Department of Migrant Workers or the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
The incident in question occurred during the distribution of financial assistance to OFWs at the embassy compound in Bahrain. The event was halted as the gathering grew larger and started resembling a public assembly. Cacdac noted that the MWO staff member responded with harsh language instead of calming and reassuring communication.
To avoid future incidents, Cacdac has ordered that financial assistance to OFWs in Bahrain be distributed via digital payments. He also reassured the community that the department has adequate funds, contrary to the staff member's claims.
Cacdac clarified that a proposed PHP7 billion contingency fund is intended for large-scale repatriation scenarios. Meanwhile, efforts to assist OFWs impacted by Middle East tensions continue. A group of 29 OFWs from Israel and the UAE was set to arrive later Tuesday evening, with another group of 16 expected on Wednesday. Additional groups from Kuwait and Qatar are also anticipated, totaling nearly 100 individuals.
Cacdac also addressed the situation of OFWs stranded in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, due to temporary travel restrictions, pledging continued assistance.
