Filipino Workers in Saudi: Contract Guide
Saudi Arabia is home to nearly one million Filipino OFWs. The Philippine government provides some of the strongest pre-departure protections of any sending country, through the DMW (formerly POEA), OWWA, and POLO offices. But many workers still face contract issues after arrival. Here is how the system protects you and what to watch out for.
The Standard Employment Contract (SEC)
Every Filipino OFW deployed to Saudi Arabia must have a DMW-approved Standard Employment Contract. The SEC sets minimum terms that the Saudi employer must meet, including: minimum salary by occupation, mandatory insurance coverage, defined working hours (maximum 8 hours/day for most occupations), leave entitlements, and employer-paid repatriation.
Your contract can provide more than the SEC minimum, but never less. If your actual working conditions are below SEC standards, report it to POLO immediately.
POLO Offices in Saudi Arabia
POLO Riyadh: +966-11-4828888 — serves Central and Eastern provinces
POLO Al Khobar: Serves Eastern Province workers
Philippine Consulate Jeddah: +966-12-6676261 — serves Western Province
OWWA Hotline: +63-2-1348 (from Philippines) for membership benefits and assistance
Common Issues Filipino Workers Face
Contract substitution: Being asked to sign a different contract upon arrival in Saudi. The SEC-approved contract is the legally binding one. Never sign a replacement without consulting POLO.
Household workers (kasambahay): Domestic workers face unique risks including confiscation of phone, restriction of movement, excessive hours, and physical abuse. These are all violations of both Saudi and Philippine law.
Illegal recruitment fees: Philippine law prohibits workers from paying placement fees exceeding one month's salary. If your agency charged more, report them to DMW.
OWWA Membership: All OFWs should be active OWWA members. Benefits include: USD 10,000 life insurance, emergency repatriation, legal assistance fund, livelihood programs for returning OFWs, and education scholarships for dependents. Verify your membership at owwa.gov.ph.
Frequently Asked Questions
What protections do OFWs have?
Saudi Labour Law, POEA/DMW Standard Employment Contract, POLO offices, OWWA membership, and the PH-Saudi bilateral agreement.
What is the Standard Employment Contract?
A DMW-approved minimum contract template setting salary, hours, leave, and repatriation terms. Your contract cannot offer less than SEC standards.
How can POLO help?
Contract verification, labour complaints, legal counseling, shelter, employer mediation, and OWWA coordination.
What is the minimum salary?
DMW sets minimums by occupation. Household workers: USD 400/month minimum. Skilled workers vary by trade.
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