THE Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) warned on Friday, March 22, aspiring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) against illegal recruiters offering supposed jobs in Poland.
In a statement, the POEA said the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (Polo) in Milan, Italy, which has jurisdiction over Poland, has reported several OFWs being victimized of illegal recruitment activities.
“While it is true that several employers from various industries are interested in hiring Filipinos, there are also several challenges encountered by OFWs already in Poland,” said the POEA.
It related how Polo Milan has reported that some Filipinos deployed in the road transport industry, particularly trailer truck drivers, complaining of poor labor conditions and human trafficking activities.
Also, the POEA disclosed that some OFWs deployed as factory workers have complained of exorbitant placement fees and unauthorized deductions made by their recruitment agencies and employers.
The government agency, then, reminded aspiring OFWs to deal with licensed recruitment agencies only.
“Filipinos seeking jobs in Poland must only transact with licensed recruitment agencies with job orders approved by the administration,” it said.
The POEA similarly enjoins all applicants to report any suspected illegal recruitment activities to the POEA Anti-Illegal Recruitment Branch at 722-11-92 or at POEA Hotline numbers 722-11-44 or 722- 11-55. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)