Presidential Adviser for OFWs and Vice President Noli de Castro has urged for a bilateral agreement for Israel and Philippines that aims to protect and improve the working conditions of OFWs in Israel and upgraded the skills of OFWs bound for that country.

“It is my firm belief that through diplomacy and the establishment of bilatarel agreements, Israel and the Philippines will have a mutuallly beneficial relationship that will improve the working conditions of OFWs in Israel and boost Israel’s economy as well.” De Castro said.

In return, De Castro pushes for an upgrade in the skills of OFWs by conducting trainings and seminars for OFWs bound for Israel. These seminars will also be held so that Filipinos will be familiarized with Israeli society and culture.

As of now, there are more than 75,000 Filipinos working and living in Israel. Most of them are reported to be caregivers for private homes. De Castro thanked the Israeli government for the good treatment and accommodation for OFWs.

The Israeli government has expressed their willingness to forge a bilateral agreement through Israeli Parliament member, Dr. Yuri Shtern.