Cairo: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reiterates the warning issued by the Philippine Embassy in Egypt against illegal recruitment and ‘third-country’ schemes offering employment in the African nation without proper permits and accreditation.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DMW advised Filipinos seeking jobs abroad to apply only through its accredited agencies, report suspicious recruiters, and always keep their passports and valid work documents for protection. The agency emphasized the importance of not accepting job offers or signing contracts without legal work permits, visas, and valid employer documentation. They stressed that each contract should comply with the required terms and conditions as well as the minimum salary set by the DMW.

The DMW further cautioned jobseekers to be wary of recruiters who promise easy placements or employment through a third-country recruitment scheme. This scheme offers employment in another country but promises jobs in Egypt without proper legal documentation and accreditation, which could expose workers to risks such as exploitation, detention, or deportation.

The Philippine Embassy in Cairo also encouraged overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to report any suspicious recruitment activities or unauthorized offers. They reiterated that under Egyptian law, all foreign workers must obtain work permits and licenses from Egypt’s Ministry of Manpower and carry valid identification and residence cards at all times.

Additionally, the Embassy reminded Filipinos that the Philippine passport remains the property of the government and should never be held by their employers or sponsors. They urged OFWs to keep their passports with them for identification and protection, and to cooperate with authorities when required to show their passport, IDs, or residence card.