34 Pinoy workers who went on strike in Madagascar arrive home

MANILA, Philippines - Thirty-four Filipino workers of a construction company in Madagascar who went on strike over contract violations arrived in the country the other day.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said yesterday the 34 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) were part of those employed by the Kentz Engineers and Constructors in the Ambatovy Mining site in Tamatave, Madagascar who went on strike weeks ago over delayed payment of salaries, non-payment of overtime pay and unsuitable and overcrowded accommodations, among others.

Although strikes have ceased, the lack of available flights during the holiday rush previously caused some difficulty in securing flights for the OFWs.

The Philippine Embassy in Nairobi has called the attention of the Kentz Engineers and Constructors to the complaints of the OFWs. The Embassy urged the latter to address them promptly and to give priority to the repatriation of the OFWs awaiting repatriation.

The Kentz Engineers and Constructors assured the Embassy that the company is doing its utmost to address the concerns and will repatriate the workers who wish to go back to the Philippines.

The Embassy is coordinating with the representatives of the workers and the Philippine Society of Madagascar to facilitate assistance to the remaining workers and to ensure that their rights are respected.

The DFA coordinated with the OFWs’ placement agencies in Manila for appropriate assistance.