GMA asked to name insider to head OWWA

MANILA, Philippines – Local job recruiters have appealed to President Arroyo to appoint an “insider” or a labor expert to head the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

Leaders of recruitment agencies said Mrs. Arroyo should appoint someone who really knows the job of an OWWA administrator.

“We would prefer a person who has a long experience in handling welfare concerns of OFWs especially someone who also held an administrative job at OWWA during times of crisis,” they said in a statement.

They expressed opposition to the possible appointment of former Surigao del Sur congressman Prospero Pichay who has no experience in dealing with the issues concerning migrant workers.

“An outsider who will take the reins of the OWWA in short span of time can only produce negligible results in improving the welfare protection mechanisms of the office.”

Sources from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said aside from Pichay, President Arroyo is also considering the appointment of OWWA deputy administrator Angelo Jimenez, and Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) deputy director Carmelita Dimzon.

Also being considered to head the OWWA are Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) assistant secretary-general and spokesman Alex Aguilar, Riyadh-based doctor Carlito Astillero and Sid Aligada.

The search committee had submitted to the President the names of the six nominees to head the OWWA. It also submitted their assessment concerning the application of the nominees.   

Sources from the labor department said Jimenez and Aguilar, who were both endorsed by various church, labor and migrant workers’ groups are the strongest contenders to the position.