Protection for Bikolano OFWs in Hongkong Sought

LEGAZPI CITY, Aug. 27 -- The Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) Family Circles Confederation, Inc. in Bikol has sought the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) here to take the necessary steps to protect OFWs based in Hong Kong from possible harassment and maltreatment as an offshoot of the tragic hostage-taking incident in front of Quirino grandstand last Monday.

Elsie Atienza, president of Bicol OFW Family Circle Confederation, Inc., said that organizations and the families of OFWs in Hong Kong have expressed fears because of possible retaliation of some Chinese nationals following the bloody hostage drama.

"Actually some families of our OFWs based in Hong Kong and in mainland China are worried after the incident, that is why we are now coordinating with the OWWA to ensure the safety of our OFWs," Atienza said.

She also urged OWWA regional office in Bikol to put up a free overseas telephone line so that families of OFWs can easily communicate with their families and loved ones.

OWWA Bicol regional director Jocelyn Hapal, on the other hand, said that there are still unconfirmed reports that Bikolano OFWs based in Hong Kong are allegedly bearing the brunt as a consequence of the hostage incident. (PNA)