The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is investigating the detention of 24 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who were held by Russia's Bureau of Immigration before being repatriated to the Philippines.
Victims of Illegal Recruiters
According to DMW Undersecretary Bernard Olalia, the OFWs were victims of illegal recruiters. The agency aims to hold all those involved in their recruitment accountable.
Olalia explained that the workers were enticed by the high wages offered to cleaners in Russia, which have increased due to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
No Recruitment Agency Involved
The official stated that no recruitment agency was involved in the workers' travel to Russia. Instead, a Filipino who had previously worked in the country acted as a recruiter. This individual had contacts with a cleaning company in Russia and persuaded the victims to join him.
After returning to the Philippines last week, 23 of the OFWs were reunited with their families. However, the alleged recruiter remains detained and will face charges related to illegal recruitment.
Presidential Intervention
The repatriation of the OFWs followed a meeting between President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
