TESDA offers training for returning OFWs

Filipino workers displaced by hostilities in Lebanon need not worry about their income with the start of the training for "supermaids" in Metro Manila, according to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

TESDA director general Augusto "Buboy" Syjuco said yesterday returnees from Lebanon, mostly domestic helpers, will soon be able to earn more than what they received from their employers if they avail of the free training to be provided by TESDA.

He urged displaced OFWs residing in Metro Manila and nearby provinces to take advantage of the free training on Aug. 21 at the TESDA office, East Service Road in Taguig.

The former Iloilo congressman said 80 percent of the 34,000 Filipinos in Lebanon are domestic helpers earning a measly P10,000 a month."Some endure the cruelty and inhumane treatment of employers just to send money to their families in the Philippines. Our workers deserve better treatment than that," he said.

Syjuco noted that once a trainee completes the "supermaids" program and gets employed, he or she would be receiving $400 or P20,000 a month. 

"Doble ito sa kinikita nila sa dati nilang employer," he said, adding that the government will ensure that supermaids would be deployed to good employers, mostly in Singapore and Malaysia.Syjuco said the program includes training in first aid and CPR, evacuation from high-rises in case of a fire, pet grooming, and other skills to help workers get higher compensation.

He said those interested in joining the free training can contact Cecil Gutierrez at 818-8082, 817-2651 and 09216567521.