Stop Sending Maids Abroad If Unsure About Their Safety

By Alon Calinao Dy: Many Filipinos are seeking greener pastures abroad as there is a wide gap between the rich and poor in the Philippines. Poverty is due to corrupt government system that is spread like a contagious disease. Some issues are due to inequality and lack of firmness on the part of the government in tackling these problems. 

Each year, there are many abuses reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) around the globe, and most of these complaints come from Filipino housemaids either they are sexually abused or have experienced mistreatment by their employers.

However, there are OFWs who work as housemaids achieve employment success by having a good place to work with supportive employers, escaping the danger of sexual exploitation and mistreatment. But let's admit the fact that not all attain the greater glories in life.

Since there is not enough work for Filipinos in the country, I truly understand their situations because I had been an OFW. I understand that thousands of Filipinos prefer to go overseas to find greener pastures so that they can support their growing families with overseas remittances. We can't blame for their continued sacrifices, but only to support them.

As what I've said, I am concerned about the wide income gap between rich and poor in the Philippines. This is one of the reasons why they work abroad.

Yet, I encourage those overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to think about their safety first before money or anything else. Ensure that if their employers are abusive, report them to the appropriate authorities who can help them and take immediate actions about their cases.

After all, an abusive employer can be sued and should not be tolerated.