The Philippines and South Korea have formalized a legal pathway for Filipino seasonal farm workers through a newly signed Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC). This major policy shift aims to regulate deployment under the Seasonal Workers Program (SWP) and ensure stronger protection for migrant laborers.
Government Collaboration Behind the Agreement
The JMC was signed by multiple Philippine agencies, the DMW, DILG, DOJ, DA, BI, and LGU representatives, alongside the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. The partnership sets clear standards for recruitment and deployment, replacing the old local government–to–local government system.
Visa Options and Earnings
Under the SWP, Filipino workers may now apply for either a 3-month short-term employment visa or a 5-month seasonal visa, extendable by another 3 months. The program offers an average net monthly income of approximately ₱60,000, making it a highly sought-after overseas opportunity.
DMW Takes Full Control of Recruitment
A central change in the JMC places full responsibility for screening, recruitment, and deployment on the DMW. Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized that applicants must apply directly to the department — not to LGUs — to protect workers from illegal recruiters promising high salaries.
Problems Under the Old System
Previously, the SWP relied on sister-city partnerships between Philippine and Korean LGUs. While it provided manpower for Korean agriculture and fisheries, it also resulted in 150 complaints from 3,353 deployed workers, including cases of physical abuse, medical emergencies, illegal deductions, and four deaths from natural causes.
Moratorium and Transition Phase
Due to these issues, the DMW imposed a moratorium on January 11, 2024, before introducing temporary guidelines. Under those interim rules, 11,778 workers were deployed without incident, paving the way for permanent regulations under the new circular.
Standardized Process for Applicants
The JMC outlines a unified recruitment pathway. Applicants will undergo Korean language lessons, employment orientation, contract review, insurance enrollment, OWWA membership, and monitoring of workplace conditions, all overseen by the DMW to ensure transparency and safety.
Strict Ban on Brokers and Middlemen
Private recruitment agencies and brokers are now explicitly banned. Four individuals are already facing criminal charges for illegal recruitment, with penalties reaching up to life imprisonment due to multiple victims involved.
Strengthening Protection and Bilateral Cooperation
Through the centralized system, the Philippines aims to eliminate vulnerabilities from the previous LGU-based approach. The JMC solidifies a more secure and equitable process, ensuring that Filipino seasonal workers in South Korea receive full protection, fair treatment, and dignified employment.
