Terms set for lifting ban on working in Lebanon

Manila: The Philippine government has set demands for the resumption of the deployment of Filipino workers to Lebanon, a government official said.

"The matter of lifting the ban is now under discussion," Labour Secretary Marianito Roque said, adding that Philippine and Lebanese officials have been discussing the demands of the Philippine government for the lifting of a deployment ban in 2006.

"We proposed that they comply with all the provisions of the existing regulation on hiring of household workers, like a minimum monthly salary of $400 [Dh1471.20] per worker," Roque said.

The Philippines included a provision to ensure the safety and welfare of Filipino domestic helpers to be hired in Lebanon, said Roque, adding, "We have set the condition and if they are willing to comply, we will resume the deployment of Filipino workers to Lebanon."