(26 Apr 2021) - The Philippine Consulate General in Istanbul arranged and facilitated a virtual dialogue between Filipino community members and officials of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) on 25 April 2021.

The POLO delegation was spearheaded by Atty. Alejandro Padaen, who is based in Beirut but also covers Turkey. The OWWA delegation, meanwhile was led by Ms. Mary Catherine Pastor who is also stationed in Lebanon. Atty. Padaen gave a detailed introduction on his office and what services it extends to OFWs. Ms. Pastor, on the other hand, gave a short presentation on OWWA membership as well as its benefits and privileges.

There were more than 40 participants in the online meeting which afforded Filipinos working in Turkey the chance to ask questions concerning their employment contracts. They also sought advice from the speakers on how to deal with the respective working terms and conditions. It was emphasized during the dialogue that it is important for OFWs to follow proper procedures set by POEA in the processing of their work contracts as well as Overseas Employment Certificates.

The online dialogue is part of Istanbul PCG's efforts to keep Filipinos working in the areas under its jurisdiction abreast with the latest policies and developments that are relevant and useful to their status as OFWs in Turkey.