Labor attaché affirms strong Kuwait, Philippines’ relations

Recent agreement boosts ties

KUWAIT CITY, June 23: Labor Attaché at the Embassy of Philippines in Kuwait Rustico Dela Fuente reaffirmed the strong bilateral relations between Kuwait and the Philippines, reports Al-Jarida daily.

He stressed the step taken by the Kuwaiti side to provide necessary protection to Filipino workers in the country subsequent to the recent agreement has boosted ties between the two countries.

He said his country has requested Kuwait’s assurance on allowing Filipino workers to spend a holiday on weekends and to perform social and recreational activities as witnessed in neighboring states. He stated the agreement produced positive results based on mutual cooperation.

According to Kuwaiti government’s statistics, the population of Filipino workers in Kuwait is around 160,000 and receiving the minimum monthly salary of $400 equivalent to KD120, the source noted.

He pointed out that Kuwaiti families are generous to the point that some of them may decide to increase the salaries of their workers in appreciation for satisfactory services rendered.

As regards the fate of the five diplomats held in Kuwait over the accusation of assisting maids to flee the homes of sponsors, he said the issue is over and the concerned diplomats are now in Manila.

He hopes the two countries will resume diplomatic representation soon.