MANILA, Philippines – Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said he will consult various overseas Filipino workers (OFW) organizations about the possible deployment ban in Hong Kong amid ongoing unrest there.
“I’m meeting the OFW organization today and find out kung ano ang kanilang position dun sa possible deployment ban because that is under consideration by the POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration),” Bello said in an interview on Radyo Inquirer on Tuesday.
He added that the labor department would also have to consult the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on a possible move to impose a deployment ban.
“Kasi sila ang nagdedeklara ng alert level,” he explained.
READ: Dole mulling temporary ban on deployment of PH workers to HK
Bello earlier said that the government continues to monitor and evaluate the situation in the special administrative region of China city to determine if a deployment ban is called for.
Hong Kong has been gripped by raging protests against an extradition bill that will allow the extradition of suspects to China.
Detained Filipino
Bello said the government’s labor attachés in Hong Kong reported to him that an OFW was accosted by local authorities is receiving due assistance.
The OFW was arrested by police over the weekend for allegedly participating in the protest actions.
The OFW, however, categorically denied taking part in the protest, the DFA said in a statement Monday night.
READ: Hong Kong police detains Filipino for allegedly participating in protest
READ: Arrested Filipino in Hong Kong in fine condition — DFA
“Fortunately naman he is well assisted by two lawyers. One given..nung mga OFW association at isa naman galing sa DFA,” he said.
Bello likewise echoed the reminders previously issued by the Philippine Consulate in Hong Kong and the DFA to avoid places where protests actions are being held.
READ: HK leader says city on brink as protesters unleash travel chaos
Hong Kong authorities have arrested more than 20 people for unlawful assembly and assault after confrontations between protesters and law enforcement authorities. /gsg