Filipinos Working in Qatar Should Never Pay Placement Fees
- Publish date: Tuesday، 03 September 2024
Filipinos Eyeing Qatar Jobs Should Not Be Charged Placement Fees
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The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has reiterated that Filipino workers looking to work in Qatar should not be subjected to placement fees. This reminder comes after reports surfaced about some recruitment agencies charging fees to hopeful overseas workers.
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Strict No-Fee Policy in Place
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac emphasized that any form of payment to agencies for their services is strictly prohibited under both Philippine and Qatari laws. Speaking at a recent forum, Cacdac said, "Regardless of what the fee is called, whether it's labeled as a processing fee or otherwise, if it's meant to pay the agency for their services, it's illegal."
He explained that both the Philippines and Qatar follow an "employer-based principle," which means that employers, not workers, should cover any recruitment costs. Recruitment agencies found violating this policy could face severe penalties, including the cancellation of their licenses.
Legal Basis and Warnings
The no-placement fee policy aligns with Article 33 of Qatar Law No. 14 of 2004, which prohibits any licensed entity from collecting recruitment fees or related expenses from workers. Qatar is categorized as a non-placement fee labor-receiving country, a stance solidified during a Joint Committee Meeting between the Philippines and Qatar in August.
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Arnell Ignacio also warned Filipino workers against recruiters who falsely claim that paying fees will speed up the hiring or deployment process. "It's clear that no fees should be collected," Ignacio stated, adding that OWWA charges only a membership fee of $25 every two years, which entitles members to a range of benefits, including repatriation, reintegration, and education services.