When two Filipinas in Taiwan finally spoke up about the job mismatches they experienced, they did not expect their stories to trigger a full investigation — and the suspension of the brokers involved.
Their cases, first brought to public attention on Usapang OFW, later reached the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Kaohsiung. That’s where Labor Attaché David Des Dicang stepped in, confirming that the brokers handling the two workers have been suspended from processing Filipino manpower while the investigation moves forward.
This development matters for every OFW in Taiwan, especially those working quietly through unfair conditions or confusing job assignments. Here’s what happened, why it matters, and what OFWs can learn from it.
What Sparked the Suspension
The complaints came from two OFWs seeking shelter at the Ugnayan Migrant Ministry, the migrant center run by Fr. Joy Tajonera. Both women had arrived in Taiwan with contracts that clearly stated one job: caregiving.
But once deployed, their real work looked nothing like what they signed up for.
Case 1: From caregiving to factory and farm work
One worker, Balesca, said her Philippines recruiter — Jing International Placement and Promotion — promised her a caregiving role. Instead, she was assigned to:
- sort chewing tobacco in a factory
• work as a farmer for more than a year
• handle tasks far outside the caregiving contract
She endured this setup from July 2024 until she was terminated in September 2025 — without just cause.
Case 2: “Caregiver” assigned to clean a factory
Another worker, Tenorio, was recruited by Havilla International Manpower and assured she would care for an elderly, immobile cancer patient. But she ended up:
- cleaning her employer’s son’s factory
• doing tasks not included in her contract
• being told by her broker to lie to labor inspectors
These stories quickly gained traction, prompting swift action.
MECO Steps In: “This is Wrong”
In the Usapang OFW interview, Dicang confirmed that MECO immediately endorsed the cases to Taiwan’s Bureau of Labor Affairs for investigation.
His words were direct:
“They were hired as caregivers. Assigning them to other jobs is wrong. These violations must be addressed to protect our OFWs.”
Dicang also clarified that:
- Brokers are suspended until the case is resolved.
• Philippine recruiters will be investigated for possible charges.
• Local agencies are just as accountable under Philippine law.
This sends a clear message to both Taiwan brokers and Philippine recruiters: mismatches and deception will not be ignored.
Why This Case Affects More OFWs Than You Think
If you’ve worked in Taiwan — or you’re planning to — you’ve probably heard similar stories:
- Caregivers transferred to factories.
• Workers doing housekeeping when their contract says otherwise.
• Brokers pressuring OFWs to stay quiet.
• Fear of losing the job if they report violations.
This case represents something bigger: a system where some OFWs feel they cannot speak up because of fear, isolation, or uncertainty about their rights.
The suspension signals that both Taiwan and Philippine authorities are willing to step in — but only if OFWs report the issue.
Key Lessons for OFWs in Taiwan
These cases highlight what many OFWs wish they knew earlier:
- Job mismatch is a valid complaint
If your contract says caregiving, your employer cannot assign unrelated work like factory labor or cleaning.
- Don’t rush to resign or leave
Dicang stressed that OFWs should not immediately run away or quit. Reporting first allows labor inspectors to investigate the workplace.
- Both Taiwan brokers and PH recruiters can be held liable
Philippine law makes local recruiters equally responsible for abuses that occur abroad.
- You have more protection than you think
But protection only works when cases are filed and documented.
What OFWs Can Do If They Experience a Job Mismatch
- Report to MECO or Bureau of Labor Affairs (Kaohsiung/Taichung/Taipei)
• Document every detail: contract, messages, job assignments
• Seek help from OFW support centers like Ugnayan Migrant Ministry
• Avoid signing documents you don’t understand
• Avoid lying for brokers or employers — it can be used against you
A Turning Point for OFWs?
These two cases show the power of speaking up. For years, many OFWs have quietly endured mismatched work because they were afraid of losing their job or being sent home.
Seeing brokers suspended — and recruiters investigated — sends an important message:
When OFWs speak, authorities will act.
If you or someone you know is dealing with a similar situation, sharing your story may help push for fairer treatment and safer working conditions for all OFWs in Taiwan.