By Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News

2 minutes read. Updated 2:00PM GMT Sat, June 9, 2024

The Philippine Ambassador to South Korea, Ma. Theresa Dizon-De Vega, has issued an urgent warning to Filipinos aspiring to work in South Korea: beware of unverified recruiters.

Government-to-Government Hiring Only

Dizon-De Vega stressed that South Korean employers hire foreign workers exclusively through a government-to-government arrangement. This process ensures transparency and protects jobseekers from exploitation. Filipinos seeking employment in South Korea should coordinate directly with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to avoid falling victim to illegal recruitment schemes, particularly those proliferating online.

Reports of Recruitment Scams

The Philippine government has received numerous reports of Filipinos being scammed by fraudulent recruiters. “If an agency or company approaches you claiming they can secure you a job in a small or medium enterprise in Korea, this is a red flag,” Dizon-De Vega warned.

Employment Permit System (EPS)

Most Filipinos working in South Korea are employed under the Employment Permit System (EPS). This system strictly prohibits private agencies from participating in labor migration. Filipinos typically work in sectors such as manufacturing, information and communications technology, engineering, and English teaching. Additionally, there are seasonal agricultural positions available for 5 to 6 months.

Embassy Assistance for Victims

The Philippine embassy is actively helping undocumented Filipinos and those victimized by illegal recruiters to regularize their status. “We encourage our fellow Filipinos to process their documents, and we will assist them within the guidelines and laws of the host country,” Dizon-De Vega assured.

No Immigration Pathway

The ambassador also clarified that there is currently no pathway for foreigners to immigrate to South Korea.

For more information on safe job applications and the EPS, visit the Department of Migrant Workers website.

Key Points:

  • Verify recruiters through the Department of Migrant Workers.
  • Avoid private agencies claiming to secure jobs in South Korea.
  • Most Filipinos in South Korea work under the EPS in sectors like manufacturing and ICT.
  • The Philippine embassy assists victims of illegal recruitment.