Leave Malaysia, illegal OFWs urged

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz advised undocumented overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Malaysia to seek assistance from the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (Polo) and voluntarily leave the country in light of the crackdown on undocumented foreign nationals.

“This should not cause panic among OFWs in that country, especially if they possess complete and authentic immigration documents,” Baldoz said.

“Our Polo in Malaysia is ready to assist OFWs who may not only have documentation problems but also problems arising from their work,” she added.

She reminded the OFWs to always carry their work permits or passports with a valid visa with them in the event they would have to undergo spot immigration inspections.

Citing reports from the Philippine Embassy, Baldoz said Malaysian authorities had indicated that those who leave voluntarily would not be prosecuted but would only have to pay fines for overstaying.

Those arrested will undergo deportation proceedings and will be detained for the time being.—Tina G. Santos