Philippines lifts ban on Europe-bound nannies

2012-02-23 00:15:34 GMT+7 (ICT)

MANILA (BNO NEWS) -- The Philippines on Wednesday lifted a ban on sending domestic helpers to all European countries after new protection guidelines were issued, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.

The DFA said that the new guidelines are meant to facilitate the departure of the "au pairs" and at the same time to provide them safety nets and protection. A strict monitoring system will be put in place at all Philippine embassies and consulates in Europe for the protection of Filipino au pairs, the Philippine Star reported.

Au pairs are unmarried Filipinos between 18 and 30 who are placed under a cultural exchange arrangement with a European host family for a maximum stay of two years. Under the scheme, the au pairs live with the host family on an equal basis and shall be given pocket money because they help with child care and light household chores.

Under the guidelines, procedures for the departure of au pairs have been simplified and documentary requirements down to the minimum. Secretary Albert del Rosario advised prospective au pairs not to go to third parties since the procedures have been simplified at the least cost for the Filipino workers.

The DFA said that the ban was imposed in 1998 due to isolated cases of abuse of the system and reports of mistreatment. In 2010, the ban was lifted for Switzerland, Norway and Denmark.

-- © BNO News All rights reserved 2012-02-23

Sure, whatever..........

Meanwhile they have no issues with the export of people to the Middle East - the country lives on the money sent home by these poor folks to keep the economy afloat.

A nanny-visa? OMB