Manila to discuss illegal workers in KL

Manila to discuss illegal workers in KL

PHILIPPINES: The Philippines has dispatched a high-level delegation to Malaysia to appeal for humane treatment for Filipino illegals during an impending crackdown, the foreign department said on Wednesday.

The delegation, headed by Foreign Undersecretary Jose Brillantes, will also discuss mechanisms with Malaysian authorities to enable thousands of Filipino illegals to return to Malaysia after complying with immigration requirements.

"The delegation will reiterate the request of the Philippine government for humane, orderly and systematic repatriation," the department said in a statement.

Malaysia is expected to begin an all-out crackdown on illegal migrants on March 1.

According to Philippine government estimates, up to 170,000 undocumented Filipinos are working in Malaysia and many have not yet returned home despite warnings. --DPA