VICE President Jejomar Binay on Monday said he is deeply concerned by a report of domestic workers, including Filipinos, being put on display at malls in Singapore.
"The Philippine embassy should investigate the report and if needed, make the proper representations with Singaporean authorities," Binay, the Presidential Adviser on Overseas Filipino Workers' Concerns, said.
He said if the report is true, the act of "displaying" domestic workers in malls to be scrutinized by prospective employers violates human rights and international laws upholding the rights of migrant workers.
"I am deeply concerned by these reports. If this is true, then the domestic workers are being subjected to an indignity that should not be allowed and is in fact, a violation of an international convention protecting the rights of migrant workers," he said.
The Vice President also expressed confidence that Singapore will act on the matter once it is brought to their attention.
"I am confident that such acts will not be tolerated by Singapore. Singapore is a friend of the Philippines and Filipinos," he said.
A report by news outlet Al Jazeera depicted the plight of the domestic workers in "maid agencies" in the city-state, where the workers are allegedly made to sit beneath signs and posters that testify to their qualities, or advertise promo rates and discounts.
According to the report, the workers are also made to simulate real-life housework, like taking care of the elderly or children. (Jun Sarmiento/Sunnex)