Kuwait Union of Domestic Labor Offices (KUDLO) Chairman Khaled Al-Dakhnan has announced the start of receiving applications for Filipino domestic workers. This follows an agreement between Kuwait and the Philippines to lift the ban on Filipinos and allow all types of entry and work visas. The union plans to visit the Philippines next month to coordinate with recruitment agencies. Al-Dakhnan also expressed hope to open recruitment from more countries to increase options for citizens.

Regarding Ethiopian workers, Al-Dakhnan noted that recruitment has not yet started as they await the lifting of the visa ban. He thanked First Deputy Premier, Minister of Defense, and Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousuf Al-Sabah for his efforts in resuming Filipino worker recruitment.

KABAYAN Partylist Representative Ron P. Salo praised the Kuwaiti Government, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and the Philippine Embassy officials for resolving the labor issue. Salo highlighted the Kuwaiti Government’s commitment to Filipino workers’ welfare and the measures in place for their protection.

During his visit, Salo toured a shelter for workers who escaped their sponsors and held a Town Hall meeting with the Filipino community in Kuwait. He discussed various issues, including the visa ban and its impact on OFWs and Filipino businesses. Salo emphasized the Philippine government’s efforts to enhance the protection and welfare of migrant workers in Kuwait.

Data from the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait shows there are currently around 245,000 Filipino workers in Kuwait, down from 268,000 before the ban, with Filipinos making up 50% of the domestic labor force.