A lawmaker has recently urged the Senate to pass a bill that aims to enhance legal assistance for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). The House of Representatives has already approved House Bill 9305, which seeks to amend Section 26 of Republic Act (RA) 8042, also known as the “Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995.”
The proposed measure aims to establish a larger legal assistance fund under the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to support OFWs in need of legal aid. The bill recognizes the importance of providing comprehensive legal support to migrant Filipinos, wherever they may be, by amending existing laws that currently limit the assistance provided by the DFA and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
Camarines Sur 2nd District Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte, one of the lead authors of the bill, emphasizes the significance of ensuring that Filipino migrants have access to adequate legal assistance whenever they require it. He asserts that Congress can contribute to this cause by enacting new legislation that expands the scope of support available to OFWs, enabling them to protect their rights and address any legal issues they may encounter abroad.
In addition to amending RA 8042, the bill also proposes changes to Section 14 of RA 11641, also known as the “Department of Migrant Workers Act of 2021.” These amendments aim to broaden the range of legal services accessible to OFWs.
The bill outlines various expenses that can be covered by the legal fund of the DFA and DMW. These expenses include fees for hiring foreign lawyers to represent OFWs facing charges, costs associated with filing labor and/or criminal cases against abusive employers or other individuals overseas, bail bonds to secure temporary releases, and other litigation expenses.
Importantly, the bill seeks to exempt the hiring of foreign legal counsels and the release of funds for case-related expenses from the restrictions imposed by RA 9184, also known as the “Government Procurement Act.” This exemption is crucial as it enables expedited and efficient access to legal resources for OFWs, ensuring that their legal needs are met promptly and effectively.
Enhancing legal assistance for OFWs is a vital step towards safeguarding their rights and well-being while working abroad. By expanding the range of support available, the bill aims to address the unique legal challenges that OFWs may face and provide them with the necessary resources to navigate legal complexities in foreign jurisdictions.
The proposed legislation also recognizes that the hiring of foreign legal counsels and other related expenses should not be hindered by bureaucratic procurement processes. This exemption from the Government Procurement Act streamlines the provision of legal aid, enabling swift action and ensuring that OFWs receive the necessary legal representation without unnecessary delays.
In conclusion, the bill to broaden legal assistance for overseas Filipino workers is a significant legislative initiative that aims to protect and empower Filipino migrants around the world. By expanding the legal aid fund, amending existing laws, and exempting relevant expenses from procurement restrictions, the bill seeks to provide OFWs with comprehensive support when they need it the most. It is imperative for the Senate to pass this bill and contribute to the welfare of our hardworking overseas Filipino workers.
Source: The Manila Times
