Migrant Voices: Usapang Seasonal Farmworkers in South Korea
"Usapang Seasonal Farmworkers in South Korea," a podcast hosted by Chat Dimaano from KASAMMAko and Migrante South Korea, delves into the complex world of seasonal farmworkers, who toil in the fields of South Korea under challenging conditions. The discussion last June 16, 2024, featured Carlo Oliver, Chair of KASAMMAko (Alyansa ng mga Migranteng Manggagawa sa South Korea), Sianne Gabor-Mendoza, faculty member at Union Theological Seminary's Bible Department, and Beh de Castro, head of the Community Affairs Office in the Municipality of Silang, Cavite, Philippines, provided a platform for voicing the concerns and struggles of seasonal farmworkers.
This program is part of Migrant Voices, a bi-monthly online program to amplify the voices of migrants as they share their stories of struggles, their campaigns and advocacies, and tackle perennial and emergent issues affecting them and their families.
The Seasonal Farmworker Experience
Seasonal farmworkers in South Korea often endure exploitation and discrimination. They are subjected to low wages, long working hours, and harsh living conditions. Many workers pay exorbitant placement fees, often reaching up to ₱90,000 (approximately $1,800 USD), with loans secured against their land titles in the Philippines. This financial burden places them in a precarious situation that resembles modern-day indentured servitude.
Carlo Oliver, Chairperson of KASAMMAko, highlights the systemic issues faced by Filipino seasonal workers. The recruitment process is fraught with corruption, with some paying additional fees to unscrupulous brokers. Oliver explains how some have to pay a PHP 90,000 placement fee and have a PHP 60,000 loan agreement back in the Philippines only to face abuse and discrimination in South Korea. This sheds light on the underground network of undocumented workers who overstay their visas in hopes of better opportunities.
The seasonal farmworker visa typically lasts 3 to 6 months, often leading workers to "run away" or "TNT" (Tago Nang Tago) to escape the cycle of debt and oppression. "Para kang kalabaw," Oliver notes, comparing the arduous farm labor to the life of a cow. .
Despite these adversities, many Filipinos continue to seek work abroad due to economic hardships at home. The lack of support and opportunities in the Philippines forces them to gamble on overseas employment as a means of survival.
The Role of the Church and Moral Imperative
Sianne Gabor-Mendoza, provides a theological perspective on the issue, emphasizing the moral obligation to protect and uplift marginalized communities. She cites Leviticus 19:33-34: "When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God." The biblical mandate calls for compassion and justice for those who are vulnerable, resonating with the Christian duty to advocate for human rights.
"Part of the task of the church is to look out for those in the margins," Gabor-Mendoza asserts, underscoring the need for solidarity with migrant workers. The passages in the Bible reminds those who believe in Christ the duty to show compassion and love to those in need, echoing the call to "speak out against injustices' faced by seasonal farmworkers.
The Local Government Perspective: Recruitment and Responsibility
The podcast also features insights from Beh de Castro, head of the Community Affairs Office in the Municipality of Silang, Cavite, Philippines. She explains that recruitment for seasonal farm work in Korea is independent of local government units (LGUs). Instead, third-party agencies and employers from Korea handle the recruitment process.
De Castro clarifies the role of the LGU: The LGU are not the ones who hire the seasonal workers but it is their duty to ensure the welfare of the workers. The LGU is responsible for ensuring that no middlemen exploit workers and that recruitment is transparent. In Silang, LGU provides financial assistance of ₱3,000 and covers transportation costs to the airport.
Workers recruited through official channels are promised health coverage, especially for work-related illnesses. Theit LGU’s memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Korean counterparts guarantees this protection, yet challenges remain, as many workers still face obstacles in accessing healthcare.
Solutions and the Path Forward
Addressing the issues faced by seasonal farmworkers requires a multifaceted approach:
1. Strengthening MOUs: Ensuring detailed agreements between LGUs and Korean counterparts can mitigate exploitation. A well-defined MOU can ensure that recruitment is fair and workers' rights are protected.
2. Advocacy and Policy Change: Organizations like KASAMMAko and Migrante South Korea play a crucial role in advocating for policy changes that protect workers' rights, extend visa durations, and improve working conditions.
3. Awareness and Solidarity: Raising awareness about the plight of seasonal farmworkers is essential. The church and other civic organizations must continue to support and advocate for these workers, reinforcing their inherent dignity and rights.
The Origins and Mission of KASAMMAko
KASAMMAko was founded in 1988, amidst the socio-economic crisis of 1987, which saw a surge in Filipino migrants to South Korea. Initially established as a coordinating body to address Filipino migrants' issues, KASAMMAko was formalized in 1988 with the goal of defending the rights and welfare of migrant workers and their families. Over the years, the organization has spearheaded campaigns to reduce passport fees, secure travel documents, repatriate deceased Filipinos who lack funds, and assist those arrested abroad. Notably, they advocate for better wages and working conditions for seasonal workers, extend their stay, and push for a social security agreement between the Philippines and South Korea.
Watch the full video here.
