On Women’s Day, Migrante laments Filipina workers’ plight abroad

MANILA, Philippines — A group advocating the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) on Friday lamented the exploitation of thousands of Filipina domestic employees around the world.

On the global celebration of Women’s Day, Migrante International raised the case of Baby Jane Allas, 38, a Filipina domestic worker in Hong Kong who was reportedly sacked after being diagnosed with cervical cancer.

“Our hearts were bruised anew by the agony of a Filipino household worker in Hongkong who was terminated after being diagnosed with Stage 3 cervical cancer,” Migrante said in a statement.

A single mother of five, Allas was diagnosed with Stage 3 cervical cancer in January.

Her sufferings, according to the group, “epitomize the plight of many Filipino migrant women” who have suffered or may be currently suffering “physical illness or mental disorders due to their subjection to maltreatment and inhumane working conditions.”

The group even called out President Rodrigo Duterte for his misogynist remarks, saying such statements by the highest leader of the land “demonstrate his view and treatment of women as low caste citizens.”

“Today, Migrante International joins in solidarity with all women who have chosen the path of struggle for liberation and democracy,” the group said.

“Filipino women migrants are bravely lifting their banners high with indefatigable allegiance and faith to the masses as we wage our battles against all forms of oppression and exploitation ravaging under the US-Duterte regime,” it added. /kga