2 OFWs to file sex abuse raps vs. labor personnel

MANILA, Philippines - Two more overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East are prepared to file charges of sexual harassment against Philippine labor personnel amid a brewing controversy of 'sex-for-flight' schemes victimizing migrant workers in the Middle East, a non-government organization reported on Tuesday.

Former Labor Undersecretary Susan Ople, president of the Ople Policy Center, said two OFWs are willing to come forward and file complaints against their accused abusers in the hope of ensuring that other OFWs will not suffer the same fate they did.

"One of them had already met with our lawyers while we expect the second victim to come forward anytime this week. Though they are not involved in the 'sex-for-flight' controversy, their traumatic  experiences at these shelters are important to underscore the urgent need for reforms," Ople said.

Ople is in the United States after receiving the 2013 Trafficking in Persons Hero Award from Secretary of State John Kerry in Washington DC.

She is in Dallas, Texas to meet with Sergeant Byron Fassett of the Dallas Police Department on the work of its High Risk Victims and Trafficking Team. Ople is also visiting  Mosaic Family Services, a nonprofit community-based organization that provides services to refugees and immigrants who are victims of human trafficking and domestic violence.

Ople called on OFWs to report on their condition in the embassy premises and shelters to help them with their grievances.

"This is your chance to help others. Share what you know and we will do our best to document your experiences and convert all of these into a confidential report as basis for justice and reforms," she said.

The Ople Center can be reached via 833-5337 and 833-9562 or through [email protected].