DFA tells OFWs to have Saudi contracts checked

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has advised Filipinos planning to work in Saudi Arabia to make sure the Philippine government has checked their contracts with their employers as this would prevail when it comes to their working conditions.

Saudi Arabia’s Labor Relation Initiative will take effect in March 2021 and is expected to do away with restrictions under the kafala or sponsorship system that had prevented foreign workers from changing jobs or leaving the country without their employer’s consent.

The restrictions had led to situations where overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) were maltreated. —Leila B. Salaverria