DOLE reports normal situation in South Korea, advises OFWs to stay alert

Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz on Tuesday urged OFWs in South Korea to remain calm and alert after North Korea declared a state of war against South Korea.

"The Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Seoul, which is constantly monitoring the conditions in the region, reports a calm and normal situation in South Korea. There is no reason to panic since the POLO is closely coordinating with the Filipino community in the region and is prepared for any possible events," Baldoz said.

In her report to the Secretary, Labor Attache' to Korea Felicitas Q. Bay said that the Philippine Embassy released an advisory last March 7 for the Filipino community to stay vigilant and maintain its observance of Alert Level 1 or heightened awareness.

It also constantly updates the Filipino community of the security situation in the country through its website, electronic mail blast, community gathering and Filcom Leaders' Forum.

Aside from these, POLO constantly reminded OFWs, especially those who recently arrived in Korea, to always monitor the situation and to keep a handy emergency kit and money for any eventuality.

Baldoz also called on the families of OFWs deployed in South Korea to also remain calm, as the security and safety of OFWs is the topmost priority, as ordered by no less than President Benigno S. Aquino III.

"Amidst the reports of a normal situation in South Korea, our POLO in the region work closely with the Embassy under one-country-team approach and would never let its guards down. It will continuously and constantly monitor the developments in the region and will always be prepared to ensure that our OFWs will stay safe and away from danger," Baldoz said.

As of 28 February 2013, there are 42,057 Filipinos in Korea. (PNA)