The DFA issued an advisory for all Filipinos traveling to Romania. They are advised to procure appropriate visas from the Romanian Embassy in Manila.

For tourism purposes, Filipinos need to apply for short-stay (tourist) visa. The Romanian Ministry of Interior and Administrative Reforms emphasizes that holders of short-stay visas cannot seek employment in Romania.

Short stay visa is based on a special procedure, via invitation, which does not permit subsequent prolongation of the right to stay in Romania. Although Romania is a member of the European Union (EU), it is not a party to the Schengen Visa Agreement.

Apparently, the news that OFWs are in demand in Australia encourages unscrupulous individuals to pretend as legitimate recruiters and victimized innocent OFWs. Because of this, the POEA issued an advisory against illegal recruiters that offer jobs for farm workers and household helpers in the said country.

The Philippine consulate in Australia informed, “There are no job openings for domestic helpers and farm workers in Australia. Any manpower agency that claims to be recruiting maids and farm workers for Australia is deceiving applicants.”

The consulate added, “Illegally-hired foreign workers in Australia are exposed to abuses, hazards, and risks. If they are caught, they are deported and blacklisted from future re-entry into Australia.”

Click here to view the latest job openings in Australia at workabroad.ph

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who aspire to work in Canada as a caregiver are advised by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to examine if the employment contracts offered by prospective Canadian employers complies with the recruitment conditions of the Philippine government.

The DOLE secretary, Marianito D. Roque reminded OFWs the need to ensure that necessary conditions are clearly stated in the contract before signing and accepting a job offer. Read more.

As posted in the DFA website, the Philippine Embassy in Korea issued a warning against agencies that serves as a medium for Filipinas who wants to go to Korea as mail order brides. Luis T. Cruz, Philippine Ambassador to South Korea, restates this warning as the government of the said country tightens its rules against interracial matchmaking agencies that refuse to comply with local laws and use deceiving advertising. Read more.

The DFA issued a reminder to all Filipino workers to be cautious of unscrupulous individuals (Filipinos and foreigners) offering jobs in China that offers attractive salary. Many Filipinos have been victimized by illegal recruiters that promised deployment in cities of China like Shanghai. The unfortunate jobseekers find themselves either poorly paid, unemployed, or imprisoned for being caught working without the required visa. Although China needs foreign workers to fill positions in the skilled, technical and professional job categories, there are no openings for domestic helpers. Read more.