BAHRAIN: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has ordered the recall of a Migrant Workers Office (MWO) staff member in Bahrain after a viral video showed the employee speaking disrespectfully to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) seeking assistance, Philippine News Agency reported.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac confirmed the decision on Monday through a social media statement, saying the behavior captured in the video was unacceptable.
“I have issued the order recalling that MWO Bahrain employee being highly disrespectful to OFWs in a viral video,” Cacdac said.
The clip circulated widely online and showed several OFWs visiting the office to inquire about cash assistance. In the video, the staff member told them that the distribution of aid had already ended and that there were no remaining funds available.
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OFWs Say They Traveled Long Distances
Some OFWs in the video expressed frustration, saying they had traveled from far areas just to request assistance. They also questioned why the office had not announced earlier that the aid distribution had already finished.
The employee was heard telling the group that they would no longer be entertained and could file complaints if they wished.
“Tapos na po ha, hindi na kayo mae-entertain. Tapos na po ang ayuda,” the employee said in the recording, adding that they could report the incident to authorities if they wanted.
The remarks sparked criticism online, with many viewers calling for accountability and better treatment of migrant workers seeking help from government offices abroad.
DMW Explains Cash Aid Amounts
Following the controversy, DMW Undersecretary Dominique Rubia Tutay clarified the purpose and amount of financial assistance provided to OFWs.
Some workers had complained that they received only 20 Bahraini dinars, which is equivalent to about PHP3,100.
Rubia Tutay explained that emergency assistance ranging from USD20 to USD50 is meant to help with immediate needs such as food, clothing, and medicine.
She added that OFWs who are returning home to the Philippines may receive additional support. Around USD200 may be provided to workers who are already at the airport and preparing to return to the country.
Financial assistance can also be given upon arrival in Manila to help workers restart after returning from overseas.
Government Agencies Continue Support Programs
The DMW said assistance for distressed OFWs is part of a broader whole of government approach.
Agencies involved in providing support include the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and the Department of Labor and Employment.
Cacdac assured migrant workers that government offices remain committed to respectful service.
“I assure our dear OFWs that we shall continue to serve with humility, respect, and hard work,” he said.
For OFWs abroad, the case highlights the importance of reporting service issues to the DMW so they can be addressed quickly. The recall order signals that the agency is taking complaints seriously and monitoring the conduct of personnel assigned to assist Filipino workers overseas.