The city government of Baguio and Taebaek City in South Korea signed a memorandum of understanding for the employment of Filipino seasonal workers to rural agricultural areas in South Korea, soon.
The MOU signed March 4, between Baguio City Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong and Taebaek City Mayor Lee Sang Ho spells out the responsibilities and roles of both parties for the short-term work in the agricultural area of Taebaek City for 90 days or five months.
“Neither of parties nor employers shall charge seasonal workers any kinds of fees for services other than airfare and administrative expenses,” the MOU reads.
Taebaek City shall take responsibility for all procedures necessary for seasonal workers from Baguio City to obtain their visas issued by the Republic of Korea Embassy in the Philippines.
Baguio on the other hand, shall assist the workers in meeting the requirements set forth by Taebaek City as well as provide briefings on how to apply for visa before departure including the disadvantages in illegal stay, among others.
“In the event of unauthorized departure, efforts will be made to return to the country, such as requesting the family to voluntarily persuade them to return home and dispatching local government officials to support their return home,” the MOU states.
The MOU between Baguio and Taebaek is valid for two years from the date of signing and “automatically extends every year if there is no objection from both parties even after the contract period.”
Requirements and qualifications as well as the complete procedure will be published once the city council confirms the MOU. – Jessa Mardy P. Samidan
