Philippine and Czech Republic flags | INQUIRER.net stock photo
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to oversee a deal with the Czech Republic to protect the rights of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the European country, according to a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) official on Friday.
Marcos will travel to Germany and the Czech Republic from March 11 to 15, where he is expected to speak to political and business leaders.
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“In the Czech Republic, we will sign a joint communique on the establishment of a labor consultations mechanism which aims to enhance cooperation between the Philippines and the Czech Republic for the safe and orderly migration of Filipino workers, as well as for the provision of the higher protection of their rights and welfare,” said DFA -Office of European Affairs Maria Elena Algabra in a Palace briefing.
According to Algabre, there are around 7,000 Filipinos in the Czech Republic.
However, the Czech Republic is also eyeing to increase the number of OFWs in their country.
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“Starting January 2024, the quota is 5,000. And the Czech, they have announced that this will be increased beginning May to 10,000 for the Filipinos only,” said Algabre.
During Marcos’ stay in Germany and the Czech Republic, Marcos is set to meet the Filipino community.
First Lady Liza Marcos, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual, and Agriculture Secretary Jose Tiu Laurel will join him on the trip.