Household workers are vulnerable to all forms of abuse, so to protect their wellbeing the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) approved better policies in the recruitment process. It also sets the new minimum wage for domestic helpers at USD 400 or more or less Php 20,000.00. The new rules will be implemented starting December 16, 2006.

Aside from domestic helpers, the new policy also covers the hiring process of caregivers and other semi-skilled female workers. The following are the additional requirements for applicants as stated by the new and stricter policy:

The minimum age requirement for household workers is 25 years old.

The applicant must obtain a National Certificate for HSWs from the Philippine Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Applicant must have a Country-Specific Language and Culture Certificate of Competence/Certificate of Attendance issued by the Overseas Worker Welfare Administration (OWWA).

Philippine Consul General Wilfredo DL. Maximo said, “Employment documents would still undergo verification with Philippine Overseas Labor Offices and authentication with the Philippine Embassies and Consulates Generals.”

Likewise, foreign employers (direct hiring or through a licensed placement agency) have to pass a prequalification by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO). Personal appearance and an interview is now required at POLO. Documentary requirements that needs to be submitted are written undertaking as approved by the POEA (forms are available at POLO),

accomplished information sheet, police clearance, a valid ID, and others.

According to Maximo, the rule will apply to all country who wishes to hire Filipino domestic helpers. Maximo said, “The CNMI Department of Labor has been earlier advised of this development and their assistance has been requested in disseminating this information.”