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