South Korea may hire more migrant workers: Binay

Source: abs-cbnnews.com

Philippines – The South Korean government is looking at relaxing immigration rules in order to hire more migrant workers, especially in the hotel and restaurant industry, Vice-President Jejomar Binay said in a statement on Sunday.

Speaking before over 1,000 Filipinos at the St. Benedict’s Church in Seoul, Binay said he was informed by Korean businessmen of the plan, which is still part of South Korea’s preparations for the hosting of the Asian Games in 2013.

“Marami pong mabibigyan ng pagkakataon na makapag-hanapbuhay dito, lalo na sa nagtapos ng hotel and restaurant management,” Binay said.

Binay also assured the Filipino community that the Philippines is in continuous discussions with the South Korean government to help find solutions to problems encountered by Filipino immigrants and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

“Hindi kayo nag-iisa sa pagharap sa inyong mga suliranin. Kasama ninyo ang inyong pamahalaan dito,” Binay said. “Patuloy ang pakikipag-usap ng ating pamahalaan, sa pamamagitan ng embahada dito, sa mga kinaukulan sa Korea.”

Binay noted that a law was recently passed in South Korea that ensures the speedy processing of documents for returning workers.

Moreover, a memorandum of understaing was signed between the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) and the Korean Ministry of Gender Equality and Family. Binay said the agreement will protect Filipinos who marry Koreans.

Binay is representing President Benigno Aquino III in the 2012 Nuclear Security Summit. He also plans to attend the 63rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and South Korea.

There are more than 50,000 Filipinos living in South Korea.