Pimentel lauds UAE’s efforts in improving labor conditions

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III JOSEPH B. VIDAL/SENATE SMU

MANILA, Philippines — Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III praised on Tuesday the United Arab Emirates’ government for improving the working conditions for foreign laborers.

Pimentel, in a statement, said it is “encouraging to witness positive developments,” indicating tangible progress in the welfare of foreign workers in the UAE.

“The efforts undertaken by the UAE government, alongside the close cooperation with our very hardworking labor attachés, demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the protection and rights of all workers,” Pimentel said.

READ: PH aims to finish free trade talks with UAE in two years

READ: PH, UAE continue free trade discussions

In the same statement, Pimentel welcomed UAE’s recent directive mandating the inclusion of all private sector employees and domestic workers in the compulsory health insurance scheme.

Proactive stance

“This action demonstrates a proactive stance toward enhancing the welfare of workers and emphasizes the UAE’s dedication to fair employment standards,” Pimentel said.

Citing data, the senator emphasized that UAE is home to one of the largest populations of overseas Filipinos in the Middle East.

Based on data, the UAE is the second home to one of the largest populations of overseas Filipinos in the Middle East, Pimentel noted.

“We commend the UAE government for its proactive approach in addressing the needs of foreign workers and reaffirming its commitment to humanitarian principles,” Pimentel said. ANA MAE MALATE, INQUIRER.NET TRAINEE