The proposed law on the creation of temporary shelters in host countries of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and halfway houses in the Philippines for those repatriated is an initiative that would provide a safety and security net for modern-day heroes, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said.
House Bill No. 09388, which was introduced by Rep. Marissa "Del Mar" Magsino of the OFW Party-List, seeks to expand the utilization of the Emergency Repatriation Fund (ERF) under Republic Act (RA) No. 8042, the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act, as amended.
"In the face of ongoing global conflicts, natural disasters, and other crises in different parts of the world, the Commission recognizes that these initiatives are essential in ensuring that our kababayans (countrymen) are provided with safe, humane, and dignified living conditions during their most vulnerable times," the CHR said in a statement.
The CHR cited Article XIII, Section 3 of the 1987 Constitution, which mandates the State to afford full protection to labor, both local and overseas, and to promote their welfare and well-being.
It also said that Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, on the other hand, guarantees the right to a standard of living adequate for health and well-being.
"With wars and disasters displacing countless individuals, it is important that the State remains vigilant in safeguarding the rights and welfare of Filipino migrant workers," the CHR said.
"The CHR fully supports the passage of HB 09388 and calls on our legislators to prioritise the well-being of our OFWs -- ensuring that no Filipino is left behind," it also said.