DFA Seeks Strengthening of Filipino Workers’ Protections with Chongqing Partners

(Top photo) Mr. Arnel M. Sanchez tours the facilities and one-stop shop of the Chongqing Public Security Bureau-Exit and Entry Administration. (Bottom photo) Mr. Sanchez meets with Deputy Chief Lai Hansong to discuss concerns regarding Filipinos working and residing in Chongqing.

CHONGQING 06 December 2023 – In a meeting arranged by the Philippine Consulate General in Chongqing, Special Assistant Arnel M. Sanchez of the Department of Foreign Affairs-Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs (DFA-OUMWA) discussed today matters of mutual concern with Deputy Chief Lai Hansong of the Chongqing Public Security Bureau (PSB)-Exit and Entry Administration Bureau.

During the meeting, Atty. Sanchez underlined the DFA’s mandate to ensure the protection of overseas Filipinos.  To aid the post-pandemic mapping of Filipinos in Chongqing, he sought relevant statistics on Philippine citizens working and residing in Chongqing.  Atty. Sanchez also called attention to persistent cases of Filipinos being lured to China with promises of high-paying jobs, often involving illegal employment as household service workers. 

Deputy Chief Lai expressed his appreciation for the close coordination between the Philippine Consulate General in Chongqing and the PSB, particularly in matters concerning the safe repatriation of apprehended Filipinos. He assured Atty. Sanchez that these individuals are accorded their full rights.   In this regard, Deputy Chief Lai expressed interest in interfacing with the Philippines’ Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT). 

PSB took the occasion to give Atty. Sanchez a tour of its facilities of the PSB, including a one-stop shop for foreign clients.

The PSB-Exit and Entry Administration Bureau is China’s main agency responsible for immigration, visas, and residence permits of foreigners in China. END. 

For more information, visit https://www.chongqingpcg.dfa.gov.ph.