Tulfo meets Australian envoy; demand for Pinoy workers highlighted

MANILA, Philippines — Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown visited the office of Senate committee on migrant workers chairman Raffy Tulfo on Feb. 18.

During the meeting, they discussed the situation of the estimated 400,000 Filipino workers currently living or employed in Australia, many of whom are nurses, skilled workers and professionals in the health care industry.

Innes-Brown commended the strong work performance of Filipino workers in Australia and acknowledged their significant contribution to the Australian economy.

He noted that Australia continues to require more skilled workers and expressed preference in hiring more Filipinos.

Tulfo thanked the ambassador for what he described as “excellent treatment” of OFWs in Australia, highlighting that his office has not received reports of abuse or mistreatment by Australian employers against Filipino workers.

The ambassador also said that more Filipinos are enroling in master’s and doctorate scholarship programs at Australian universities. While pursuing their studies, they are given opportunities to work and bring their families with them, an initiative welcomed by Tulfo.

Innes-Brown also discussed ongoing Australian government projects designed to ensure that Filipino scholars can immediately apply their specialized training upon returning to the Philippines.

These include programs such as specialized agricultural courses that directly benefit the country.

Innes-Brown likewise mentioned the expansion of Australian investments in the Philippines in areas such as infrastructure, education, trade, renewable energy and agriculture. These investments are expected to generate employment for approximately 45,000 Filipinos. nationwide.