Filipino workers in Qatar line up to see Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte during his trip to the Middle East in 2017. (Photo courtesy of the Presidential Communications Office)
A Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines official has backed a move by President Rodrigo Duterte to ban the sending of Filipino migrant workers to Kuwait.
Bishop Ruperto Santos of Balanga, chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People, said a ban would protect workers from abuse.
Aside from stopping workers going to Kuwait, the prelate also demanded the government investigate abuses committed in other countries.
"We appeal that our government investigate and lodge diplomatic protests about deaths and sexual abuses," said the bishop.
He said it is the duty of the government to protect its people, especially migrant workers who contribute to the country's economy.
"They should be defended against abuses and unjust labor practices," the prelate said.
Last week, Duterte said he planned to impose a total ban on the sending of workers to Kuwait because of reports of sexual abuse and several workers being driven to suicide.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs said there are about 250,000 Filipinos working in Kuwait, most as domestic helpers.