DMW warns OFWs vs moonlighting in host countries

MANILA, Philippines, August 30 ------ After the arrest of six overseas Filipino workers at a dental clinic in Hong Kong, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has warned OFWs against moonlighting or engaging in side jobs outside their work contracts.

DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac advised OFWs not to engage in unauthorized work and to strictly adhere to the laws of their host countries. “Let this serve as a serious warning – stay within the bounds of your employment contracts and visa conditions. Let us not engage in moonlighting. If your visa says you are employed for a specific job, stick to it. Anything outside that is a violation and could lead to arrest, detention or even deportation,” Cacdac said in a statement.

He stressed that host countries have the sovereign right to enforce immigration and labor laws that cover not only Filipinos. “These are not acts of discrimination. These are legal enforcement measures that apply to all foreign nationals. As guests in other countries, we are expected to respect and comply with their laws,” Cacdac said. He advised the OFWs to stay on track and not get distracted by quick money schemes or emotional attachments that lead to illegal work, which could “lead to imprisonment or deportation.” “It is not worth it,” he said.

According to Cacdac, the DMW “understands the emotional and financial pressures that many OFWs face.” The six OFWs apprehended in HongKong are in detention and waiting for legal proceedings. “We are closely coordinating with the Philippine consulate and our Migrant Workers Office in Hong Kong to ensure that the legal and welfare needs of the detained Filipinos are fully addressed,” Cacdac said.

Source: philstar.com