Telangana Delegation to Visit Philippines to Study Migrant Labour Policies

An 11-member delegation from Telangana will visit the Philippines from August 17 to 21 to study the country's migration and labour policies for overseas workers. The state government plans to deliberate, develop, and adopt similar measures to support the large workforce from Telangana currently employed in West Asian countries.

According to Non-Resident Indian Advisory Committee (NRIAC) member Swadesh Parkipandla, the delegation comprises legislators and subject experts. The team will examine the Philippines' institutional mechanisms and policies regarding the welfare, protection, return, and re-integration of migrant workers stationed in Gulf countries.

The primary focus of the tour will be understanding welfare programmes, institutional systems, and best practices. Findings from the visit will serve as key inputs to help formulate a Telangana Gulf NRI policy and establish a dedicated welfare board for migrant workers.

NRIAC Vice-Chairman M. Bheem Reddy noted that the Philippines has developed strong migration-driven policies, which are considered among the best models globally. He highlighted that the Philippine government maintains labour attaches, welfare officers, and specialised arrangements within its foreign missions across Gulf countries.

Mr. Reddy added that the Philippines operates pre-departure orientation programmes, skilling initiatives, and upskilling schemes. Bilateral agreements between the Philippines and Gulf nations also allow the government to actively negotiate better wages and protections for its workforce.

Addressing current regional dynamics, Mr. Reddy stated that despite ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, the United States, and Iran affecting Arab countries, significant scope remains for skilled worker migration. He noted that Saudi Arabia's confirmation as host for the FIFA World Cup 2034 will open up further employment opportunities for skilled personnel.

During the five-day tour in Manila, the Telangana delegation is scheduled to meet officials and experts, and visit the Indian Embassy, the Commission on Overseas Filipinos, and the Department of Migrant Workers. The team will also receive briefings on migrant worker issues from experts at Migrant Forum in Asia and Building and Wood Workers' International.