Low wages in the Philippines - the driving factor for Filipinos to take the risk of illegal employment opportunities abroad, according to the Federation of Free Workers (FFW).

FFW President Atty. Sonny Matula noted that due to the domestic repercussions brought by the Middle East conflict, even the dirty, dangerous, and demeaning jobs overseas may appear as a beacon of hope.

“Kahit ang pinakamarumi, pinaka-mapanganib, at pinaka-mapanghamak na trabaho sa abroad ay maaaring magmukhang pag-asa,” he said

[“Even the dirtiest, most dangerous, and most demeaning work abroad can look like a hope.”]

In light of this, come May 1, 2026, or Labor Day, the FFW wants to appeal for a ₱200 wage increase for the minimum wage earners as well as the nationalization of wages - the equal pay of minimum wage across the country.

The FFW calls on the government to take necessary actions to prevent the rise of this serious concern.

“Kung totoong nais ng gobyerno na pigilan ang tukso sa mga manggagawa na kumapit sa marumi, mapanganib, at kahina-hinalang trabaho sa abroad, dapat nitong itaas ang sahod, lumikha ng disenteng trabaho, at maghatid ng oportunidad at katarungang panlipunan sa napapabayaang kanayunan,” the FFW said

[“If the government truly wants to prevent the temptation for the workers to settle in dirty, dangerous, and suspicious jobs abroad, they should increase the wage, create decent jobs, give opportunities, and social justice to the neglected areas.”]

With reports from Evan Alvarez

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