Another group calls for Sondos Al-Qattan’s blacklisting: ‘OFWs are not slaves’

Kuwaiti blogger Sondos Al-Qattan was rebuked anew by a Filipino organization for her opposition to the new bilateral pact between the Philippines and Kuwait that ensure better treatment for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) on Monday "strongly condemned" the "racist and derogatory remarks" by Al-Qattan and said Filipino workers are "workers, not slaves."

"Foreign employers should ensure that the OFWs' dignity is honored and their rights as human beings are upheld and respected at all times," it wrote.

"They play an integral role in the attainment of 'Decent Work,' which is the common aspiration of people in their working lives."

The CFO also called for the blacklisting of Al-Qattan and adding her to the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration’s list of undesirable foreign employers if she continues to refuse to retract her statements.

"We also take this opportunity to laud several international beauty brands, which decided to cut ties with Ms. Al-Qattan, and showed how they support upholding the dignity and rights of workers," they added.

More voices joined the condemnation of Al-Qattan's remarks against the new rule that allows OFWs to retain their passport and one day off every week.

Bahraini princess Sheikha Noor and other Gulf-based influencers expressed their dissent with Al-Qattan's statements, with Noor saying "Let’s stand up for equality, justice and human dignity."

Former Miss Lebanon Nadine Wilson Njeim said it was irresponsible for Al-Qattan to say what she said, which she said advertised modern-day slavery, but also said that the backlash against her was "bullying." — Rie Takumi/BM, GMA News