The MWO Lebanon office, also known as the Migrant Workers Office, is a Philippine government office of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) that is dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights of overseas Filipino workers in Lebanon. It was established in 2018 as part of the Philippine government’s efforts to provide better services and support for Filipino migrant workers.
The MWO, previously known as the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), underwent a rebranding after the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers in the Philippines. This exciting change aims to better cater to the needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in foreign countries, including Lebanon. The rebranding showcases the Philippine government’s unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive support to its citizens working abroad.
The MWO Lebanon office has a team of dedicated staff who work together to assist migrant workers in various aspects, such as legal assistance, welfare support, and repatriation. They also serve as a liaison between the Philippine government and the host country’s government, ensuring that the rights and welfare of Filipino workers are protected.
Aside from providing assistance to migrant workers, the MWO Lebanon office also conducts information campaigns and training programs to educate Filipino workers about their rights and responsibilities while working abroad. This includes seminars on financial management, cultural sensitivity, and legal awareness.
Filipinos in Lebanon
As of October 2023, there are an estimated 17,500 Filipino migrant workers in Lebanon as per Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) data. While tensions have been high due to war in the neighboring countries, Filipinos still continue to seek employment in Lebanon due to opportunities for better salaries and job prospects.
Filipino migrant workers in Lebanon are mostly employed as household service workers, working long hours and often under difficult conditions. They face various challenges such as language barriers, culture shock, and discrimination. The MWO Lebanon office plays a crucial role in providing support and assistance to these workers.
Note: The Philippine Embassy, in light of the current situation, has strongly advised Filipinos residing in Lebanon to carefully consider leaving the country and take advantage of the government’s repatriation programme. It is recommended to do so while the airport in Beirut remains operational, ensuring a safe and timely return to the Philippines.
The MWO Lebanon office plays a vital role in addressing many OFW issues and protecting the rights of Filipinos.
Services Offered by MWO Lebanon Office
The MWO Lebanon office offers a range of services to assist Filipino migrant workers in various aspects, including:
Legal Assistance
The MWO Lebanon office provides legal assistance and advice to Filipino workers who are encountering legal issues or concerns in Lebanon. This covers a range of situations, from labour disputes to contract violations.
Welfare Support
The office actively supports the welfare of workers who may be dealing with difficulties such as abuse, harassment, or non-payment of salaries. It collaborates closely with the Philippine Embassy and local authorities to resolve these issues.
Repatriation
In instances of emergency or crisis, the MWO Lebanon office aids in the repatriation process for Filipino workers, coordinating with the Philippine Embassy and other government agencies to ensure a safe return to the Philippines.
Information Campaigns and Training Programs
The office regularly holds information campaigns and training programs covering a variety of topics, including financial management, cultural sensitivity, and legal awareness. These programs are designed to educate Filipino workers about their rights and responsibilities abroad.
Overseas Employment Certificate
The MWO Lebanon office issues Overseas Employment Certificates (OEC) to Filipino workers returning home for a holiday. This document is critical as it serves as proof of their OFW status and is required by the Philippine government for re-entry processing.
Contract Verification Service
The office provides a contract verification service, ensuring the validity and authenticity of employment contracts for Filipino workers to prevent illegal recruitment and contract violations.
OWWA Membership
The MWO Lebanon office helps Filipino workers register for membership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). This organization offers a variety of benefits and services to OFWs, including social and financial assistance.
Dispute Assistance
In the event of disputes between employers and workers, the MWO Lebanon office plays the role of a mediator. The office also assists in filing complaints and seeking legal recourse for workers subjected to mistreatment or abuse.
Role of MWO Lebanon
The MWO Lebanon office plays a crucial role in protecting and promoting the rights of overseas Filipino workers in the country. Their responsibilities include providing legal assistance, welfare support, and repatriation services for workers. They also conduct information campaigns and training programs to educate workers about their rights and responsibilities while working abroad.
Their presence has greatly improved the support and services available for Pinoys, making their experience of working abroad safer and more secure. That is why Filipinos are advised to seek assistance from the MWO office if they encounter any issues while working
Video: Happy Migrant Workers Day by MWO Lebanon
Here’s a video created by the MWO Lebanon office in celebration of the annual Migrant Workers Day.
Summary
The establishment of the MWO Lebanon office has greatly improved the support and services available for Filipino migrant workers in Lebanon. With their presence, Filipino workers can now receive direct assistance and guidance from the Philippine government, making their experience of working abroad safer and more secure.
Contact Information
MWO Lebanon Office
Address: 2nd Floor W. Building, Mar Geries St., Hadath, Baabda, Lebanon
Telephone Number: +961 71 418 657, +961 05 953 523
Email: mwo_lebanon@dmw.gov.ph, pololebanon@yahoo.com
Website: https://pololebanon.weebly.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pololebanon/
OWWA Beirut Contact No: +961 05 953 524
Email: lebanon@owwa.gov.ph
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/owolebanon
Google Map Location
Please check the map guide location of the MWO office in Beirut, Lebanon below: