Thru the initiative of Ugat Foundation and CBCP, seamen now have a new way to cope with loneliness and pressure that comes with their profession. The program makes it possible for seamen to receive an expert advice from a trained volunteer counselor via mobile messaging. Seamen can send a text message or call mobile number 0915-9389715.

Many Filipino educators are trying their luck overseas since there are lots of job offer for teachers overseas, particularly in US. One of the many factors why most Filipino teachers are entice to work overseas are the attractive compensation package and benefits.

Added to that is the fact that teachers here are overworked but underpaid. A public school teacher only gets Php 9,939 to Php 16,792 a month. This is very different from salary offers for Filipino teachers in Maryland which is USD 3,623 or Php 181, 170 per month.

A report from DOLE confirmed that POEA has approved a resolution for the implementation of an incentive program that will provide assistance to victims and witnesses of illegal recruitment through the payment of docket fees and other court or legal fees.

G. B. Resolution No. 05 provides that victims and witnesses availing of the program shall be given priority for overseas employment. It also mandates POEA to provide free legal assistance to victims of illegal recruitment and other related cases which are administrative or criminal in nature.