2 abused OFWs return from Jordan

MANILA, Philippines - Two overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were abused by their employers in Jordan have come home, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) reported yesterday.

OWWA chief Carmelita Dimzon said Lorena Saligumba, 27; and Diana Lalaine Castillo arrived yesterday afternoon at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

The maltreatment Castillo suffered at the hands of her employer forced her to jump from the third floor, Dimzon said. Castillo underwent knee surgery and was treated for abdominal injuries.

The OWWA chief said the Philippine Overseas Labor Office convinced hospital authorities to release Castillo even if her bills reached $13,000.

Saligumba also tried to escape from her employer’s house and sustained an ankle injury after jumping from the third floor window. “She complained of harassment, lack of food and being overworked,” Dimzon said.

The two workers are both active OWWA members and are entitled to disability benefits, she said.

The Philippine government is working on forging a bilateral agreement to provide better protection for Filipino household workers employed in Jordan.