Volume 1 Issue 3 January 2008

Rebenson B. Recaña, SULYAPINOY Chief Edi- levels concerning the EPS and entertainment sec-
tor; Elizer M. Penaranda, SULYAPINOY Feature tors. The Focused Group Discussion is one of the
Editor together with the Philippine Migrant Work- effective ways to gather factual inputs to be in-
ers Association - Incheon Chapter (PMWAK) cluded in the report.
officers: Aldrin D. Igana, president; Joey Noble-
jas, vice-president; and other EPS group repre-
sentatives seriously collaborated and discussed
the various problems that may intervene and
affect the working condition of the EPS sector
from the pre-departure up to the re-hiring period
of the worker. The group came up with the output H yehwadong, Dec 16, 2007 - The Filipino
EPS Workers Association (FEWA) has
concluded its first fundraising campaign to subsidize
as presented on the table. (Refer to page 5)
Focused Group Discussion: LABATT Cruz presides as participants Fr. Glenn Giovanni B. Jaron, MSP, former the organization’s mission, which emphasizes vol-
listen - Fr. Glenn Giovanni Jaron, MSP; Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP; unteerism, and public service. In conjunction, the
Pastor Jones Galang; Pastor Zeppelin Canlas; Pastor Nicolas chaplain of Hyehwa-dong Filipino Catholic Com-
Cepe Sr.; Rev. Frank Hernando; Sr. Lucia Olalia, SJBP; Prof. munity didn’t hesitate to give comments on the event also culminated the year as FEWAnians cele-
Emely Dicolen-Abagat, Ph.D.; and other representatives. previous working partnership between the NGOs brated a cheerful Christmas Party.
and the Philippine Embassy since he served the
I TAEWON, SEOUL — Philippine Overseas
Labor Office (POLO) held a focused group
discussion on current problems and issues of Fili-
Filipino Community in South Korea for almost 10
years. He said, “No man is an island. Before, the
The “holiday party” was a great chance to mingle
mixed with some genuine fun and camaraderie.
Approximately 30 attendees enjoyed the quite feast,
NGOs didn’t trust the Philippine Embassy and
pino EPS workers and entertainers at the Philippine exciting parlor games and prizes.
vice-versa, until former Ambassador Villacorte
Embassy last December 9, 2007.
showed his concern which prompted him to sup-
Labor attaché, Atty. Delmer R. Cruz together Among the highlights of the occasion were the
port the advocacy of the NGOs.”
with his POLO staff, presided the forum and dis- Awarding of Certificate of Recognition to SULYAPI-
“Also, mutual trust is very necessary for the
cussed on pointers, recalls, issues and concerns NOY Board of Publication and its Editorial Staff,
Philippine government and the NGOs to become
about Employment Permit System and entertainers. exchange gifts, and the much-awaited raffle draw.
a more powerful and effective forces in helping
Representatives from different sectors of the
out our fellow kababayans,” the priest concluded.
Filipino community such as religious groups, NGOs, Winners were the following: Yeye Duarte,
Former Ambassador Susan O. Castrence
entertainers’ and EPS workers’ representatives Avelino Casion Jr, and Jim Cayetano who received
created a committee within the embassy headed
have participated the event and came up with differ- KRW 1,000,000; KRW 600,000; and KRW 300,000
by Labatt Cruz together with Consul General Juan
ent interventions which focused on every worker’s respectively. Ten consolation prizes are also given
Dayang, OWWA Senior Welfare Officer Elizabeth
living and respective working conditions. away during the draw.
Marie R. Estrada, and Welfare Officer Esperanza
FEWA officers and members: Loreto H. Agustin,
Cobarrubias to come up with the report and rec-
president; Aquilino J. Juanites Jr., board member;
ommendations from both operational and policy

T he Filipino EPS Workers Association

(FEWA) and the Philippine Migrant
Workers Association (PMWAK) in South Korea
Abellar, a 26-year old EPS worker from
Sta. Maria Bulacan arrived in Korea on Sep-
tember 11, 2007. He was working for 19 days
“D o not be ashamed of poverty, just
work hard. Help others even when you
are in need. These are the teachings of my
visited and comforted Samuel D. Abellar, a work since arrival when the accident happened at 8 mother”, said Lee Myung-Bak during his nation-
related accident victim, at Incheon Chamsarang p.m. of Oct. 2, at Hanjin Cheonha Industries wide campaign trail.
Hospital last Dec. 6, 2007. in Incheon.
Mr. Lee, a conservative, pragmatic and a pro
“Ginagawa naming yung mga blocks na -American is the new president- elect who won
parte ng barko tapos nilalagyan ng bakal at a landslide victory last December 19, ending 10
Photo in courtesy of Sofonias Paragsa

wine-welding. Napansin ko na nagbibitawan years of South Korea's liberal rule.

at itinuro ko sa kasama kong Korean pero di
niya pinansin at pinabayaan na lang namin,
tuluy-tuloy pa rin siya sa pagwe-welding,”
Abellar said.
“Nang tatanggalin na namin yung mga
brackets after na ma-welding biglang bumigay
yung nasa unahan. Habang pinupulot ko yung
From leftmost to right: Precy Villaveza; Ronald Austari; Loreto mga excess nakita ko na pabagsak na sa ‘kin na
Agustin (FEWA Pres.); Aldrin Igana (PMWAK Pres.); Samuel
Abellar (victim) & wife Lyra; and Sofonias Paragsa (FEWA V-Pres.)
may seven feet ang taas kaya tumakbo ako pero
at Incheon Chamsarang Hospital. turn to page 3
Given the growing number of foreign resi-
dents, Lee is expected to push for measures to
help them better adjust to Korean way of life.
Part of his plan is to improve South Korea's
foreign relations in terms of trade and invest-
ment, and human labor resources. Under his
rule, Korea plans to open its door wider to for-
eigners and more actively embrace them as
members of and contributors to society.
turn to page 3
EDITORIAL

M ore than two years have passed after the Fili- MAAWA naman
pino migrant workers in Korea expressed strong kayo sa AMIN!
opposition to the Bilateral Social Security Agreement Hwag nyo naman
MGA BAYANI! Your
FUTURE & SECURITY
between the Philippines and South Korea. kami gawing is my PRIORITY!
Different sectors, especially the EPS workers, joined GATASAN!
the campaign by gathering signatures to show their rejec-
tion of the Bilateral Agreement signed by the Philippine
Foreign Affairs Secretary, Alberto G. Romulo and the
Minister of the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs and
Trade (MOFAT), Ban Ki-Moon. Until today, the position
of the EPS workers remains the same - refusal to com-
promise.
Under the Bilateral Agreement, the EPS workers are
now entitled to social security benefits such as retirement,
disability, accident, and death insurance as part of the
benefits program of the Social Security System (SSS).
As a result, the worker’s monthly NPS contribution which
is supposedly to be claimed by them in lump sum after
the end of their contract is now impossible since the said
contribution shall be forwarded to social security
agency’s account. While those workers whose contract
are not under Employment Permit System cannot also
claim the said benefits as they shall also be covered
under the Korean National Pension System (NPS).
Moreover, this measure could eventually lead to corruption. The money
which is the fruit of the EPS workers’ years of hard labor can become an easy
target for some greedy government officials in the Philippines, particularly in
the social security agency. There are also speculations claiming that if this
money gets into the hands of the agency, it will be allocated to other govern-
ment agencies. When all these happen, the time and effort spent by the work- T he Focused Group Discussion which brought out the problems on the
workers under the Employment Permit System (EPS) and among enter-
tainers has given Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) Labor Attaché Atty.
ers in working and waiting for their well-deserved benefits may just end up in
frustration and grief. Delmer R. Cruz the opportunity to report the disappointing result on the number
of passers of the last EPS-Korean Language Test (KLT) held in May of 2007.
The workers do not only have the right to be informed and consulted but,
We are asking why it happened for a lot of applicants are waiting to be included
more importantly, they have the right to make decisions on issues concerning
in the roster of jobseekers under the EPS program in Korea.
the status of their NPS contribution and other labor-related issues. The Korean Language Test or KLT has been implemented in the Philippines
The workers’ right to decide where to allocate their contribution and bene- thru the Philippine Overseas and Employment Agency in September 2005. In
fits granted by the NPS of Korea should be upheld. The Philippine govern- the year-end report of the agency, Director Nimfa De Guzman of the Gov't.
ment should realize how miserable is the life of an OFW and how necessary Placement Branch of the POEA told SULYAPINOY that there were a total of
is the NPS in the reestablishment of their economic condition upon returning 19,807 workers deployed to Korea since the Memorandum of Understanding
back. (MOU) between the Department of Labor and Employment of the Philippines
On the other hand, the Korean government should not allow the NPS and the Ministry of Labor of the Republic of Korea was ratified in 2004.
contributions and benefits to be sent into the hands of some corrupt officials. However, it is unlikely noticeable that the last KLT in the Philippines was held
As Sangsu Lee of the Ministry of Labor of Korea expressed during last year’s eight months ago. KLT takers and even our officials have queried and pre-
celebration of International Migrants’ Day, he wished that the migrant workers sumed that those who were not able to get the passing score will be qualified to
can go back home with “a big smile on their faces.” The Korean government work in minor sectors like construction, agriculture, fisheries and livestock. Many
should make sure their decisions do not betray their intentions for the migrant Koreans and foreign workers are avoiding such industries for they are quite
workers. difficult, have few exemptions from labor rights and even hazardous to health. In
effect, the Philippine Embassy has requested an additional of $100 from the
Ministry of Labor of Korea as hazard pay for those who would like to take the
risk. Unfortunately the request was not granted.
EDITORIAL Also, the foreign workers’ dean of the Ministry of Korea has noticed the fre-
STAFF quent transfer of workplace among Filipino workers and too much assertive on
our labor rights by which many Korean employers were discouraged. But we’re
just using our labor rights as promulgated by the MOL for our protection. The
Editor-in-Chief: Rebenson B. Recaña Managing Editor: Dondave Jabay MOL has the record of the increasing number of physically and even sexually
News Editor: Edward A. Castro Feature Editor: Elizer M. Peñaranda abused workers; records show that there are abusive employers.
Literary Editor: Amie Sison Graphics: Wayne D. Manabat
For this year, POLO has been vocal about the remaking of the matrix for the
Circulation Managers: Alwyin A. Casiño, Aquilino J. Juanites Jr. EPS workers. It is good to start the New Year with new resolutions for the Fili-
Contributors: POLO Office; Hong Hee-Chang; Angela; Rogelio P. Domingo Jr.; pino migrant workers.
Joe Y. Tavarro; Marvin M. Babasa We are optimistic as we look forward for these new resolutions to help im-
Layout: blythe Cartoonist: Alden C. Balgos prove the working as well as the living conditions of the EPS workers from pre-
Consultant: Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP employment periods most likely in sending workers for minor sectors up to the
Office Address: 115-9 Songbuk-gu, Songbuk-dong, Seoul Korea re-hiring periods which includes benefits and insurances. These resolutions will
Editorial Address: OK AIRTEL VISION ASIA, Vision Bldg. # 85-3, Hyehwa- serve as prevention to all EPS workers from engaging into any types of work-
dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea (in front of the Hyehwa-dong
Catholic Church, Line 4 (Blue) Exit # 1 Tel. No. 02-744-0066 related hazards and eventually may change our misunderstood vulnerable
image into highly commendable and very competitive Filipino workers.

2 SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008


FEWA, PMWAK VISIT...
nadali pa rin ako ng dulo,” he added.
At GIL Medical Center where he was first con-
fined, the doctors declared 0% possibility of walking.
His body is half-paralyzed due to the severe fracture
on his spinal column but he never loses hope for he
believes that God will help him recover soon.
At Incheon Chamsarang Hospital, his wife Lyra
Concepcion Abellar is currently assisting him par-
ticularly on some maneuvering activities. They’ve
been married for five years with a four-year old boy.
During their visit, Loreto H. Agustin, FEWA presi-
dent together with his some officers, accompanied
by Aldrin D. Igana, president of the PMWAK -
Incheon Chapter who informed FEWA about the
incident, gave some financial assistance for the
victim’s medication. The said financial assistance
was partly came from the recent FEWA fund raising
program - the raffle draw held on December last
year.
Agustin also asked the victim about the financial
assistance coming from his employer. “My employer
is continuously giving my salary since the accident
happened. Actually he just informed me to check
my ATM for my bonus,” the victim said.
Despite of his current situation, Abellar still man-
aged to give an important advice to those who are
receiving their contract as EPS to verify first their
company, check their nature of work and even the
name of the company in the Philippines thru the
internet before coming here.
He considered his fate as a challenge still for it
happened outside the Philippines where he could
get benefits as a contract worker. He could not
imagine his situation without the help of his suppor-
tive employer, family, good friends, NGOs and
above all the Almighty whom he owes his second
life to, he said.
LEE MYUNG-BAK to Protect...
“My dream is to build a strong nation of warm
society and a harmonious co-existence with our
foreign friends. This is a promise I made to my
mother and all the mothers of this land. It is an
unwavering promise to you.” said Mr. Lee in his
speech posted in mbplaza website.
Likewise, latest statistics (http://en.wikipedia.org/
wiki/South_Korea#Demographics) shows that the
total number of immigrants residing here exceeded
one million.' We should open our doors to foreigners
with principles. Otherwise, the massive influx will
harm the country. We also need to think about so-
cially integrating them,'' said Choo Kyu-Ho, Senior
Immigration Officer in his statement to Korea Times.
A bill on the Treatment of Foreigners Act and
Anti Discrimination Act was passed concerning
issues such as the welfare of immigrant workers,
education for children from interracial marriages,
illegal immigrant workers and Korean descendants
with foreign nationality, during the National Assem-
bly last May of 2007. Under the bill, employers
discriminating against immigrant workers will be
subject to legal punishment.
Many foreign workers, especially illegal ones,
work in areas beyond the reach of the law en-
forcement and cannot receive due protection of
their basic rights. The new law has given the
Korea Immigration Service a mandate to ensure
that these and other inequality issues are ade-
quately managed as Korea slowly but surely
opens up to free human movement.
``Apart from the government's efforts, I think it
is also necessary for ordinary Koreans to stop
thinking that we live in a racially homogeneous
nation. We should think about ways of living to-
gether in harmony.'' Choo added.
(references: www.koreatimes.co.kr; http://
english.mbplaza.net; Biz News)
FEWANIAN of the Month
Engr. Wayne D. Manabat
is one of the pillars of
FEWA and a member of the
Board of SULYAPINOY. He
is from Davao City and a
graduate of B.S. Electrical
Engineering at the Univer-
sity of Mindanao, Davao
City, Philippines.
He started working in Korea
in 2005 at YUK IL SANUP in Pusan, MIRAE
TECHWIN in 2006 at Incheon, UPI-TECH in 2007
at Ilsan and ALPHONSUS TECH at Soengnam.
With all his skills and talents, he generously
shared them thru the FEWA logo, SULYAPINOY
nameplate, FEWA ID’s, and others and become
the brilliant graphic artist of SULYAPINOY.
From your FEWA Family and
SULYAPINOY Board of Publication and Staff...
THANK YOU AND GOODLUCK!
Year-end Tax Settlement
Guidelines for Foreigners
by Dondave Jabay
(Source: National Tax Service Website)
A re you from over-
seas and have been
residing in Korea for more
than one year? Is your
monthly salary deducted
with monthly tax with-
holding? If yes, then you
should check with the
National Tax Service to
apply for year-end tax
refunds. Since the imple-
mentation of the work
permit system for foreign
workers to help ease Korea’s labor shortage three
years ago, the number of migrant workers in Korea
has increased recently.
Reflecting the trend, the number of foreigners
benefiting from year-end tax returns surpassed
240,000 in 2006 and is expected to reach 300,000
this year. The total tax paid by foreigners ac-
counted for 3.7 percent, or 229.5 billion won, of all
taxes paid by Korea’s 6.6 million workers last year.
NEWS / FEATURES
As the number is expected to rise, the agency pub-
lished the “Easy Guide for Foreigners’ Year-end Tax
Settlement” to expedite filings for income tax returns
by foreigners. The guidebook contains frequently
asked questions on non-residents’ year-end tax
settlement benefits and procedures.
Anyone interested in the tax return benefits can visit
the agency’s website www.nts.go.kr/eng and click on
the “Easy Guide for Foreigners’ Year-end Tax Set-
tlement” menu to download the electronic version of
the updated (2007) taxation guidebook or download
tax forms.
You can also self-check on how much tax return you
could gain by using the Automatic Calculation Ser-
vice for Year-end Tax Settlement menu on the web
site. You can also confirm if your Monthly Withhold-
ing Tax deducted by your employer from your
monthly wage and salary income is correct by using
the Automatic Monthly Withholding Check Service or
you can also download and check thoroughly the
Simplified Tax Withholding Table.
For those who lack internet access, the tax agency is
also providing telephone consultations. For more
information, call (02) 397-1440 to contact the
agency’s foreigner exclusive taxation help line.
Direct Links for NTS Income Tax Guidelines and
Automatic Calculation Services (just type each
addresses into your respective web browser)
♦ NTS English Web-site —
http://www.nts.go.kr/eng/
♦ Easy Guide for Foreigners’ Year-end Tax Set-
tlement — http://www.korea.net/news/attach/
Easy_Guide_en_.pdf
♦ Automatic Calculation Service Year-end Tax
Settlement — http://www.nts.go.kr/eng/front/
jungsan2007refer_2007jungsan_eng.asp
♦ Tax Forms: —
http://www.nts.go.kr/eng/menu/Resources/
Forms.htm
♦ Monthly Withholding Tax Check Service —
http://www.nts.go.kr/front/service/refer_cal/
gani/refer_gani_eng.asp
♦ Helpline for Foreigners (All foreigners can call
these numbers directly) —
02-397-1440 or 02-2076-5711
Note:
You can also email your questions. Just go to http://
www.nts.go.kr/eng/ website and click “Help Desk”
page then click “Q & A” or “Foreign Taxpayer Advo-
cate Service” links.
For Comments, Suggestions,
Contributions & Advertisements
Please submit them to the ff. emails below:
News: sulyap_news@hotmail.com
Feature: sulyap_feature@hotmail.com
Sports: sulyap_sports@hotmail.com
Literary: sulyap_literary@hotmail.com
Chief Editor: sulyap_chiefeditor@hotmail.com
• We reserve the right to refuse any submission we
deem does not meet our policies and guidelines.
• SULYAPINOY is still in need of writers. Aspirants
may email the Chief Editor for more details. Thank
you for your time and interest!
SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008 3
 FEATURES
HOME RUN
by Elizer Penaranda
“Please release me, let me go…”
T his has been the undying theme song of us
migrant workers under the Employment Permit
System. We‘re bounded by labor policies provided
by the Ministry of Labor. And one of these is the
privilege of being employed four times in different
companies under the same category. Consequently,
these chances have significantly affect the living
and working conditions of us either positively or the
other way around. This is very evident in our two
feature workers who experienced the two faces of a
worker’s life.
Boyet, a 30-year old who worked as a waiter in
Davao City and had no factory experience yet be-
fore working to Korea.
He was employed in
Seoul and worked in a
plastic injection manufac-
turing company. Accord-
ing to him, he’s been
exposed to the Korean
“pali” system and that
made him a bit careless.
Eventually, he came up
with a number of rejected
products. Also, he com-
plained the “No Work, No Pay” policy of the com-
pany, verbal abuse from his Korean co-workers,
and less conducive accommodation especially
during winter in the container van which served as
his shelter. As a result, he had filed a complaint
against his employer regarding salary and the said
For three years, he just did what he was supposed
to do as a migrant worker: strong faith in God and
determination to uplift the living condition of his
family. These were all his inspirations to survive.
Today, he just arrived from one month vacation for
he has given another three years of work contract
by his employer with a monetary compensation of
around 5 million won.
They are just two out of 19,807 Filipino EPS work-
ers who had tasted both the bitterness and sweet-
ness of being away from home, obviously, for work
reason. We have sacrificed everything just to im-
prove our families living condition. Boyet who had
easily given up in just a short period of time in his
work and Edwin who patiently worked with his co-
workers are reflections of our struggles and dreams.
Like them, we are working in the so called dirty,
difficult and dangerous type of jobs. But it depends
on how we motivate ourselves too. Let us be in-
formed of the current labor policies and issues so
that we will be guided properly in our work. These
will surely lessen the burdens due to the problems
we daily encountered. In all our “releases”, strug-
gles, failures and success, there is only one desti-
nation that awaits us all at the end—home.
Goals, Resolutions, and
the New Year
by Dondave Jabay
T he New Year is a great time to set some goals
and resolutions. A time to renew, refresh, re-
commit, “re-” everything we can as the New Year
His love to us last year. Then take some time to ask
God to show our faithfulness in this brand new year.
What are some of our hopes and what can we do to
accomplish them -- or to at least get on the path to
accomplishing them?
Next, let’s write down some personal goals for this
year. I suggest to use the following tool acronym
S.M.A.R.T. authored by management expert Peter
Drucker in making our personal goals. I usually do
this both in my previous and current job, every time
we set our quarterly objectives, but I believe it will
work for our personal goals too.
Specific - You should describe specifically the result
that you desired. Don't just say "Lose weight." Decide
to "Lose 12 pounds."
Measurable - Establish concrete criteria for measuring
progress toward the attainment of each goal you set.
To determine if your goal is measurable, ask ques-
tions such as... How much? How many? How will I
know when it is accomplished?
Achievable - When you identify goals that are most
important to you, you begin to figure out ways you can
make them come true. You develop the attitudes,
abilities, skills, and financial capacity to reach them.
You begin reviewing previously overlooked opportuni-
ties to bring yourself closer to the achievement of your
goals. To be a perfect employee / husband / wife /
son / daughter / lover or friend is an admirable goal,
but nobody is perfect, no matter how resolved you
are. You should make your resolution something that
is possible like -- "Improve your next year's perform-
ance review by at least one grade or one level."

problems. Unfortunately his employer out of anger
“released” him out. Until in August last year, after
losing the work permit due to three “releases” he
decided to run back home and reapply for EPS in
Korea this year.
And Edwin, a BS Engineering graduate from Bula-
can has no work experience also in manufacturing
company. Like Boyet, he was not exposed to manu-
facturing type of work. He used to design buildings
and bridges in metro Manila. But in Busan, he was
exposed to grinding metal parts in a shipyard for he
worked for a metal fabrication company. He was
used to the “pali” system and worked for long hours.
Also, he patiently treated his co-workers well de-
spite of the vulgar words like “sikya” and “shibal”.
unfolds its promises. The end of the year is also a
great time to reflect on 2007. It is the best time to
review the holistic aspect of our life.
Being the somewhat pessimistic person that I am, I
usually tend to focus on what went wrong in the
previous year. But I realized it was also good to
think about what went right as well -- how God
showed His faithfulness to me. Now, as I start
setting up my goals and resolutions, I am inviting all
of you to do the same too.
I suggest writing down a list on how God have been
good to you in 2007. In the family, health, work,
business, friendship, community, love affair, and
others -- let’s think of ways on how God showed
Realistic - We've only got so many hours in the day,
so let us make our goals realistic based on what re-
sources and tools we've got on hand. To be realistic, a
goal must represent an objective towards which we
are both willing and able to work. A goal can be both
high and realistic; we are the only one who can decide
of how high our goal should be.
Timely - A goal should be grounded within a time
frame. Without time frame tied to it there's no sense of
urgency. Since these are New Year's resolutions, set
goals that you can reach utmost within the next 12
months. Giving ourselves “deadlines" of sorts will help
us figure out where and when we should be while
tracking our progress.
(continue to next page)

2008 - YEAR OF THE RAT -- A positive challenge for us.

by Dondave Jabay

A ccording to the Chinese Zodiac, the Year of 2008 is a Year of the Rat (Earth), which begins on February 7, 2008 and ends on January 25,
2009. First in the cycle of 12 Animal signs, Rat Year begins the sequence and recurs every twelfth year. It is a time of renewal in so many
ways. From New Year to Valentine's Day, to the arrival of spring, may all the blessings and delights of the New Year be yours.

A Rat Year is a time of hard work, activity, and renewal. This is a good year to begin a new job, get married, launch a product or make a fresh
start. Ventures begun now may not yield fast returns, but opportunities will come for people who are well prepared and resourceful. The best way
for you to succeed is to be patient, let things develop slowly, and make the most of every opening you can find. People born in an Earth Rat are said to be logical real-
ists, intelligent, charming, ambitious, artful and creative. Of course, the entire horoscope must be considered when making any personality assessment.
In Chinese, the Rat is respected and considered a courageous, enterprising person. People born in the Year of Rat are clever and bright, sociable and
family-oriented. They have broad interests and strong ability in adapting to the environment and able to react adequately to any changes. They are gifted in many
ways and have an easy going manner. They are active and pleasant, tactful and fantastic, and are able to grasp opportunities. They seem to have interests in every-
thing and hope to participate in doing it and usually do it very well.
It is nice and hopeful to know all these positive traits and opportunities that the Year of the Rat can give us, but the fulfillment of all these stuff definitely lies
on our own attitude and will. The Year of the Rat doesn’t have the magic or power to make them happen for us. We are the one who can decide and nurture these
positive challenges to make our life different as we go along throughout the year.

4 SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008


After we have identified our goals, it is best to sort
them into categories:
• Spiritual Life
• Health
• Work
• Relationships
• Fun
Last but not the least, I
believe this is the most
important thing we must do; ask for God's grace to
guide us on our way. Many people make lists of so
many things for their New Year's, but most don’t follow
through with their resolutions.
As we know ourselves, only through prayers and faith,
surely, we'll accomplish everything we set for.
I wish you a Happy and Prosperous New Year!
YOU NEED TO KNOW!!!
Source: MOL (Ministry of Labor) Website
Link @ http://english.molab.go.kr
Protection of the Rights and Interest of
Foreign Workers
1. Protection under Labor Standards Act
a) Standard working hours are 44 hours a week
(for workplaces with less than 50 workers) and
8 hours a day. Upon agreement between a Foreign
worker and the employer, extended working hours
are allowed (applicabe to workplaces with five or
more full time employees). With the revision of the
Labor Standards Act on September 2003, the 40-hours
workweek system was introduced and will gradually
apply according to the number of workers per work-
places. From July 1, 2007 to May 31, 2008, 40-hours
workweek is currently applied to any workplaces
with 50 workers and above. By July 1, 2008, it will
be applied to any workplaces with 20 workers and
above. And by the year 2011, the 44-hours workweek
will be totally abolished.
b) Wages are to be paid directly to workers in cash at
least once a month on a fixed day.
*Employers may not ,without
consent of workers, deduct
or save any part of all workers wages.
c) Foreign workers are entitled to receive additional wages
for extended working hours, working at night
(10:00PM to 6:00AM), or during holidays (applicable
to companies with five or more employees).
*In case of hours worked over 8 hours per
day and 44 or 40 hours a week, 150% of the
normal wage is paid to the workers.
NOTE: Under 40-hours workweek system, only 125%
of normal wage is paid to the workers for the first 4-hours
of overtime each week within 3-yrs from its implementation.
*Overnight (10:00PM to 6:00PM): 50% of the
normal wage is paid to the workers.
*Holidays(Sunday OT): 150% of the normal
normal wage is paid to the workers.
2) Protection under Minimum Wage Act
3) Protection under the Industrial Accident
Insurance Act
4) Protection under the Wage Claim
Guarantee Act
Problem / Issues / Concerns
Pre-Deployment (EPS Workers):
1. Lack of orientation about the overall environment at 1. PDOS should focus more on the situation at workplace and
jobsite, Korean work ethics, attitude and expectation should tap resource person with actual and relevant experience.
of Korean employer/supervisor, etc.
2. KLT (and the training therefore) is too broad and
general, when the urgent need is knowledge of lan- 3. There should be prior knowledge of/familiarization about the
guage relevant to the workplace.
3. Lack of information about the particular nature of
work.
4. Mismatch between qualification of selected worker 1. For POEA to educate the talents on the type of music,
and his actual job (e.g., college graduate doing man-
ual labor)
5. Expensive Korean language training fee
6. No orientation/familiarization about Filipino culture 3. For entertainers to learn Korean songs prior to deployment
(particularly workers) is given to Korean employers. 4. For POEA, POLO provide contact information of foreign
Pre-Deployment (Entertainers):
1. Lack of information about working environment
2. ‘Escort’ system
3. Illegitimate workers given E-6 visas (GROs)
4. Insufficient information provided in the
PDOS/inexperienced PDOS speakers
5. Medical problems- worker not screened/lack of
screening prior to deployment
Post Arrival (EPS Workers):
1. Inadequate information about Korean labor and
immigration policies during 3-day training.
Employment Period (EPS Workers):
1. Inadequate training/orientation on the particular
task assigned by employers to workers, i.e. workers
are immediately required to perform the work without
the benefit of basic training/familiarization with the
same.
2. No/Lack of safety device/paraphernalia for workers
3. Common problems:
3.1. Difficult/hazardous work (long working hours,
heavy work load, forced OT on Sundays, no/
inadequate safety device /paraphernalia, exposure to
hazardous chemicals)
3.2. Maltreatment/mistreatment
3.3. Contract violation/substitution (underpayment of
salary, OT pay or company, job description and salary
rate is different from that stated in the contract signed
in RP by the worker)
3.4. Worker does not like the work
3.5. Delayed/Non-payment of salaries
3.6. Poor working/living condition
3.7. Personal problem (conflict with co-worker)
Employment Period (Entertainers):
1. Poor accommodations
2. Underpayment of salaries
3. delayed payment of salaries
4. entertainers as GROs at night clubs
5. Bar Fines
FEATURES
INTERVENTIONS
Education
A) What is being done? B) What ought to be done?
Pre-Deployment (EPS Workers):
2. Language training should put emphasis on words /phrases com-
monly used at jobsite.
specific task to be performed by the worker
Pre-Deployment (Entertainers):
environment, etc. to be encountered in Korea;
2. To conduct PDOS with speaker who has first-hand
experience
assistance centers, embassy
Pre-Deployment (NGO Sector):
1. For the govt to provided basic orientation on foreign workers’
rights
Pre-Deployment (GO Sector):
A) 1. Conduct of PDOS
B) 1. To review relevance & effectivity of PDOS
Post Arrival (EPS Workers):
1. Basic knowledge of labor & immigration laws should be
included in the 3-day training.
Post Arrival (GO Sector):
A) 1.Post Arrival Briefing
2.Distribution of information materials
B) 1. Require promoter to present entertainers to POLO for
verification before starting work
Employment Period (EPS Workers):
1. Proposed orientation for Korean employers should include on
the job briefing/training for newly hired workers.
Employment Period (NGO Sector):
1. Conduct of Value formation Seminar to empower/teach
workers to be more responsible of themselves
2. Continuing education about foreign workers’ rights
Employment Period (GO Sector):
A) 1. Community visitation & consultation
2. Info dissemination on updates on labor & immigration laws
3. Development of Website
4. Reintegration Preparedness Seminar
5. Skills Training
B) 1. Development of Interactive Website
2. Paralegal seminar
3. Contribute in NGO’s publication /newsletter
4. Savings Consciousness
5. Entrepreneurship/Skills Training
Post/Re-integration (GO Sector):
A) 1. Establishment of the National Reintegration Center
2. Conduct of Reintegration Seminar for OFWs & families
3. Conduct of skills/entrepreneurship Training
4. supports community-based Reintegration Preparedness
Program of OFWs
5. Refer to relevant government agency
B) 1. Monitor status of OFWs who availed of Reintegration
assistance
(continue to next page)
SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008 5
 FEATURES / LABOR UPDATES
INTERVENTIONS
Policy Advocacy Direct Assistance / Operation

A) What is being done? A) What is being done? A) What is being done?

B) What ought to be done? B) What ought to be done? B) What ought to be done?
Pre-Deployment (EPS Workers): Pre-Deployment (EPS Workers): Employment Period (EPS Workers):
1. The substance of KLT should put more emphasis on 1. Make representation with appropriate government agencies 1. Closer monitoring by MOL including on the spot inspec-
language (words & phrases commonly used) at the work- tion of worksite.
place. Pre-Deployment (GO Sector):
2. Qualification and selection process should be designed 1. Request KIS & KMRB to require add’l documents (verified con- Employment Period (NGO Sector):
in such a way that lesser overqualified workers are hired. tracts for KIS & verified job order for KMRB) to weed out promoters/A):
3. To put in place a less expensive fee for Korean language venues not accredited by POLO 1. Counseling
training (either the government conducts the training or 2. Close coordination with the Phil immigration to weed put ‘escort’
2. Mediation
regulates the fee rates) system 3. Hospital Visits
4. Korean employers should be given orientation about 3. Active participation in international for a & conferences like 4. Conduct of cultural activities to learn about Korea
Filipino culture ILO,IOM, etc. 5. Conduct of Korean language course
6. Spiritual, moral & emotional support
Pre-Deployment (Entertainers): Employment Period (NGO Sector): 7. Financial support
1. Establishment of the Phil Showband & Musicians Unit 1. For Phil & Korea Govt to review and labor policies towards better 8. Networking w/ different centers
(PSMU) in coordination with POEA terms and conditions of employment B):
1. Assisting office/NGO should ask worker if he had
Pre-Deployment (GO Sector): Employment Period (GO Sector): sought assistance of another office/NGO
A) 1. Continuing review of terms & conditions of employ- A) 1. Continuing representation w/ local agencies (MOL, HRD, KIS, 2. Coordinate w/ said office /NGO
ment & negotiation with relevant agency of host country assistance centers
2. Continuing representation w/MOL, HRD for the speci- B.) 1. Liaison work with Parliament & other Korean agencies for Employment Period (GO Sector):
fication of job in the standard labor contract better protection/security of workers A):
B) 1. Renegotiate MOU for more favorable terms & condi- 2. Link/collaborate with other EPS labor sending countries 1. Counselling assistance
tions of employment & better protection of workers(EPS) 2. Conciliation services
2. Submit policy recommendations & implement immedi- Re-hire/Re-employment (GO Sector): 3. Hospital visitations
ate reforms to protect entertainers A) 1. Recommended to HRD for re-hires & returning workers to be 4. Interpretation services
covered by return cost & casualty insurances. Recommended w/ the 5. Networking/linkages w/ concerned agencies like HRD,
Employment Period (NGO Sector): Korean govt for the shortening of waiting period for 6 mos to 3 mos. KIS, MOL, assistance Centers
1. To establish a more permanent network B) 1. To reiterate request for the waiver of age B):
of NGOs requirement 1. Assistance Office/NGO should ask worker if he had
sought assistance of another office/NGO
2. Coordinate with said office/NGO

외국인근로자 고용 업체를 위한 (You cannot reduce the current salary of the worker by using this minimum wage regulation).

2008 최저임금 안내 • 근로기준법에 따라 근로시간을 단축(주 44시간 40시간)하는 사업장의 경우 단축 전 근

INFORMATION ON THE 2008 MINIMUM 로시간에 따른 최저임금액을 받을 수 있도록 하여야 합.
WAGE RATE FOR FOREIGN WORKERS The minimum wage must be given to workers based on the former working hours even if the company re-
duced their working hours from 44 hours to 40 hours by the law of the labor standard.
Source: POLO Office
• 예시 이미 근로시간을 단축 주 시간 시간 하고 있는 경우 월 최저임금
1) ( 44 40 ) ( )

최저임금액 Ex. 1: If the company already reduced the working hours (from 44 hrs. to 40 hrs.), the minimum wage should be:
원 시간
- 3,770 x 209원 = 787,930
(Minimum Wage Rate)
- 3,770Won x 209 hrs = 787,930 Won
시간급: 3,770원 (8시간 기준 일급 30,160원) • 예시 이후 근로시간이 단축되는 경우 월 최저임금
2) ’08.7.1 ( )
Hourly Rate: KW 3,770 Won per hour (8-hour Ex. 2: If the company will reduce the working hours after July 1, 2008 (monthly minimum wage)
standard daily rate: KW 30,160 Won)
- 단축전 원 시간 원
: 3,770 x 226 = 852,020

적용대상 - Before reduction: 3,770Won x 226 hrs = 852,020 Won

(Applicable Subjects) - 단축후 : 3,770원 x 209시간 + @ = 852,020원

• 인 이상 근로자를 사용하는 모든 사업 - After reduction: 3,770 x 209 hrs + @ = 852,020 Won
1
또는 사업장 근로시간 단축으로 인한 임금저하 방지를 위해 “@”만큼의 임금보전 필요
All enterprises or workplaces employing more than It is required to pay some “@” to prevent the decrease of the salary due to the reduction of the working hours.
1 worker.
• 근로시간 단축 후 연장근로를 시키는 경우 1주 16시간을 기준으로 최초 4시간에 대해서
적용기간 는 25% 가산, 나머지 연장시간에 대해서는 50% 가산 지급
(Applicable Period) In case you let your workers work overtime after reducing the working hours, 25% must be added for the first 4
• 1 January 2008 ~ 31 December 2008. hours and 50% for overtime after 4 hours. (16 hrs standard weekly)

사용자 유의사항 해당 정부부처 (Government Office in Charge)

Important Matters for the employer)
• 최저임금액을 이유로 종전의 임금수준 노동부 임금근로시간정책팀 (02 – 503 – 9732) 및 각 지방 노동청
을 낮추어서는 아니됨 Salary & Working Hours Policy Team of the MOL (02) 503-9732) and all District Labor Offices.

6 SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008

 LABOR UPDATES
RE-EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURE SIMPLIFIED KOREAN MINIMUM WAGE SYSTEM FOR FOREIGN WORKERS
외국인근로자 쉽게 한 한국 최저 임금 제 Woe-Guk-In Geun-Ro-Ja Swip-Ge Han Han-Guk Choe-Jeo Im-Geum Je
안국 내 재고용 과정 (Re-
(Re-Entry) Compiled by: Aquilino J. Juanites Jr., Dondave Jabay, and Loreto Agustin
(예전 고용주와 재 계약하는 경우)
LABOR STANDARDS ACT (Amended by: Act No. 6974 on September 15, 2003):
(1) Standard working hours per week shall not exceed fourty four (44 hrs.) excluding recess time.(For workplaces with less than 50 workers)
1. 고용지원센터 (Job Center)에
Center)에 외국인근로 (2) Standard working hours per week shall not exceed fourty (40 hrs.) excluding recess time. (For workplaces with 50 workers and above)
자 고용신청서 제출.
제출. (3) Working hours per day shall not exceed eigth hours (8hours) excluding recess time.
2. 진행자 : 고용주 NOTE:
• 근로자의 비자 만료 기간 30일 이전에, 고 Effective July 1, 2008, the 40-hour workweek system shall also apply to any workplaces with 20 workers and above. In other words, the
용주가 고용지원겐터 (Job Center) 에서 신청 standard working hours per week shall not exceed 40-hours. And by the year 2011, 44-hours workweek shall be completely abolished.
서 Re-employment Application Form를 작성 SCOPE Of APPLICATION:
하고 제출 해야 합니다. (관련 서류 : 고용주의 This wage system shall apply to all Korean and foreign workers working under businesses or workplaces in South Korea in which
사업자둥록증 사본, 외국인 고용허 가서 사본, more than 5 workers are ordinarily employed.
근로자의 여권, 구용계약서 사본 둥) SUMMARY OF MINIMUM WAGE SYSTEM SINCE EPS IMPLEMENTATION
• 외국인, 근로자의 재고용 확인서 발급과

법무부 및 한국산업인력공단에 신고. Min. Wage/Month Overtime Rate/Hour Night Differetial

3. 진행자 : Job Center Year
Rate/Hour Rate/Day
(월 최저 임금) (초과근무 시간급) (심야수당 시간당)

• 고용지원겐터 (Job Center) 에서 신청서 (시간급) (일급)

OPTION B
‘Re-employment Application Form’를 받으 44hrs/week 40hrs/week OPTION A 1st 4hrs After 4hrs 10:00PM to 6:00AM
면, 앞서 말한 신청서 사본을 고용주와 근로자 OT/week OT/week
에게 각각 1부씩 발급해 줍니다. (신청서를 받 8hrs x rate/hr x
:
Unit \ (KRW) 226hrs/month 209hrs/month rate/hr x 125% rate/hr x 150% rate/hr x 50%
rate/hr 150%
은 날로부터 7일 이내)
2005 2,840 22,720 641,840 593,560 4,260 3,550 4,260 1,420
• 그 이후고용지원겐터 (Job Center) 에서 2006 3,100 24,800 700,600 647,900 4,650 3,875 4,650 1,550
법무부와 한국산업인력공단에 신고하게 2007 3,480 27,840 786,480 727,320 5,220 4,350 5,220 1,740
2008 3,770 30,160 852,020 787,930 5,655 4,713 5,655 1,885
됩니다.

• Job Seeker Roster에 자료를 입력하고

NOTE:
CCVI를 발급.
1) For companies still implementing the 44 hours work-week system - must use OPTION A Overtime Rate/Hour Computation.
4. 진행자 : 한국산업인력공단 법무부 2) For companies already implementing the 40 hours work-week system - must use OPTION B Overtime Rate/Hour Computation for
1. -한국산업인력공단 에서 Job Seeker
a period of 3-years from its implementation. After its 3-years of implementation, the computation must be reverted back to OPTION A.
Roster에 Re-employment 둥록을 합니 Computation: (How to get 226 average working hours per month)?
Data: 1year = 12 months
다.
1year = 365 days
- 법무부에서 CCVI를 발급합니다. 1year = 52 weeks
- 외국인 근로자의 귀국/재고용. * In 1 year 52 weeks also 52 Saturdays

5. 진행자 : 근로자 52 Saturdays x 4 hours/Saturday = 208 hours (Half of 8 hours, for Sat. working days)
208 hours/ 8 hours x 1 day = 26 days
- 고용주가 재고용에 동의한외국인 근로자는 365 days - 26 days = 339 days
다음 서류를 구비하여 본국으로 돌아갑니다. 339 days/year ÷ 12 months/year = 28.25 days/month
28.25 days/month x 8 hours/day = 226 hours/month
1. Re-employment Application Form
Ways of computing Minimum Wage
2. CCVI 1)Minimum Wage/month = 226hours/month.x rate/hour
-근로자는 한국에서 출국한 날을 기준으로 1개 2)Minimun Wage/day = 8 hours/day x rate/hour
월 후에 한국에 재입국할 수 있으며, 한국에 재
3)Minimum Wage/month= 28.25 days/month (average working days/month) x rate/day

입국하기 전에 E9 비자를 발급 받기 위하여 분 For 2007: For 2008:

국 한국 대사관에 위 서류 1, 2번을 제출합니다. 226 hours of work/month (Less than 50 workers) 226 hours of work/month (Less than 50 workers)
-근로자는 언어시험과 재교육 대상에서 면제됩 3,480 won/hour x 226 hrs/month = 786,480 won/month 3,770 won/hour x 226 hours/month = 852,020 won/month
니다.
3,480 won/hour x 8 hours/day = 27,840 won/day 3,770 won/hour x 8 hrours/day = 30,160 won/day
3. 고용지원센터 (Job Center)에 보고. 30,160 won/day x 28.25 days/month = 852,020 won/ month
6. 진행자 : 고용주
27,840 won/day x 28.25 days/month = 786,480 Won/month
For 2007: For 2008:
-고용주는 근로자가 도착한 날로부터 10일 이
209 hours of work/month (50 workers and above) 209 hours of work/month (50 workers and above)
내에 고용지원센터 (Job Center)에 고용신고를
3,480 won/hour x 209 hours/month = 727,320 won/month 3,770 won/hour x 209 hours/ month = 787,930 won/ month
해야 합니다.
3,480 won/hour x 8 hours/day = 27,840 won/day 3,770 won/hour x 8hours/day = 30,160 won/day
- 근로자에 게는 업무변경이 허용되지 않으며,
27,840 won/day x 26.125 days/month = 727,320 won/month 30,160 won/day x 26.125 days/month = 787,930 won/ month
반드시 이전 고용주와 일을 해야만 합니다. (고

용주의 폐업이나 고용주의 임금 미지불 둥 불가 Three Years Re-Employment when the worker applies for Visa.
3. At the POEA, proceed to BALIK MANGAGAWA
피한 경우는 제외)
System Procedure section.
참고: 2007년 6월 1일 부터 실효

• 기타 자새한 내용은 노동부 홈페이지 1. An employer has to renew labor contract within
(www.molab.go.kr) 30-90 days prior to expiration of worker’s VISA.
• 원클릭가이드 외국인을 참조하시 거나 노
2.The employer applies for worker’s Visa, within two SULYAPINOY called up both HRD-Korea and
(2) weeks upon application and if approved, a Cer- POLO and confirmed that the rumor about the cancel-
동부 종합상담센터 (국번없이 1350)로 문
tificate of Confirmation of Visa Issuance (CCVI) is lation of the Re-Hire Program for EPS is NOT TRUE.
의하시기 바랍니다.
issued by the Immigration Office. In some cases, Fr. Alvin Parantar, Chaplain of the HFCC, warned
• 더욱 자세한 내용은 고용지원센터 only a Secret Control Number is given to the em- the community that there may be some groups that
1588-1919로 문의하시기 바랍니다. ployer. Only the CCVI or he Secret Number is initiated a misinformation campaign to pursue their
required by the Korean Embassy in the Philippines, agenda. Beware!

SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008 7

 LEARNING KOREAN
Let’s Learn Basic Korean Last one is finding the object of a sentence. You can find
By: 홍희창 (Hong Hee-Chang), Korean Teacher of Miriam Center School - Hyewadong the group of words with 을 or 를 in the middle of the
sentence. That group is the object. In the example above,

안녕하세요!
안녕하세요! Hello everyone! we can’t find the object because that is a simple sentence.
I made another sentence as below.

I am 홍희창 (Hong Hee-Chang). It’s my pleasure and honor to share basic Korean les- Ex2) 나는 사과를 먹습니다.

sons to you. Currently, I am teaching Korean language at Miriam center and it’s my honor G1 G2 G3
to extend my teaching service to other foreign workers in Korea especially to those people
who will receive and read the SULYAPINOY newsletter. This sentence consists of three groups of words. G1 is the
subject. It has 는. G3 is the verb. We can find 다 in that
From this month, I will start basic Korean topics. But before we start, let’s talk first about 한 group. And G2 is the object. Because, it has 를.
국어 (Korean Language). I think you tried to study Korean since you came here but many
Now, you can find the S, O, and V. If you have a diction-
times you gave up. Maybe because 한국어 is not easy to study along. Also, maybe you
ary, you can also look for its meaning.
don’t have enough time to study because every day or night you are working. And actually,
you don’t have enough time to talk with Korean people.
Let’s practice…
Let’s try again! Now, we have a great chance to study 한국 in SULYAPINOY newsletter.
당신은 필리핀사람입니다.
You can study with me. Maybe a few months later, you can read and understand Korean. I am sure you can do it because
나는 회사원입니다.
every student in my class at Miriam center had showed me a positive trend that they can do it and actually they did it. So I
believe in you too. 우리는 당신을 사랑합니다.

나는 바나나를 좋아합니다.
Now it’s time to start. Our first lesson is about “안녕하세요” and “감사합니다”. “안녕하세요” is like ‘hello’. And it
저것을 주십시오.
includes “How are you?” When you meet somebody like your Boss, friends, say “안녕하세요”. You meet a co-workers
이것은 무엇입니까?
in the company, say “안녕하세요”.

Another necessary expression is “감사합니다”. It means “thank you”. When somebody gave you a kindness or helpful Can you find the subject, object, and verb? How is
acts or words, please say 감사합니다. It is the best way to say or show your gratitude in Korean. the 한국어 (Korean Language)? It is so simple.
You can do it. I believe in you!
A greeting is very important in Korea. If you don’t say hello or thank you, Korean may think that you don’t have a good
manner. Don’t be shy to say “안녕하세요” and “감사합니다”. Now, I will give you another assignment. Choose a
short article or short story with your own choice at
Our second lesson is how to look for a subject, object, and verb in a Korean sentence. It is very easy. So don’t be afraid. It newspapers, books, or internet, and then find the S,
is so simple. Let`s try. O, and V. I think you can do it.
Korean sentence consists of group of words. And each group consists of two parts. The first part is the meaning part and
the second part is the grammar part. So if you know some Korean letters, you can find them easily. See you next time! 다음시간에 만나요!
만나요!

Ex1) 나는 학생입니다. Group 1 : 나 is the meaning part and 는 is the grammar part.
Group1 Group2 Group 2 : 학생 is the meaning part and 입니다 is the grammar part.

Let’s start with a verb. Finding verb is very simple. At the end of a sentence, you can find ‘-다’, ‘까’, or ‘요’. The word JANUARY FEBRUARY
group which includes that letter is the verb of a sentence. And usually the last group of words is the verb. In the example
above, 학생입니다 is a verb. Is it easy? 3 - Eduardo Teodoro III 2 - Precy Villaveza
Bernardo Bautista 4 - Rebenson Recana
Next is finding the subject. It is also very easy. The subject is usually first or second group in a sentence. In this group,
4 - Cristina Pugay 6 - Glicerio Libunao
maybe you can find 은, 는, 이, and 가. If one of them is in the group of word, definitely that is the subject of a sentence.
5 - Noel Galang Jovencio Araquel
But sometimes you can’t find them in a sentence because Korean doesn’t like to say subject especially in speaking. In the
6 - Dierde Empeso 7 - Daizy Paez
example above, 나는 is the subject. Johnny Quidilig 8 - Perry Como
8 - Edwin Pepito Juanito Abellera
Dear Readers: Geraldine Dizon 10 - Wowie Barrion
12 - Helen Ordonez 11 - Revie Joy Recana
SULYAPINOY is launching its donation program dubbed as HELP US TO HELP YOU due 16 - Melvin Fonseca 12 - Reynaldo Selin
to the following reasons and objectives: 17 - Jemma Caiteno Bernabe Rivera
31 - Rowena Manaig 13 - Renato Villegas
19 - Annabelle Salcedo
1. Inadequate financial sponsors to support its monthly printing expenses. 20 - Nilo Firme
2. To increase its monthly distribution copies by 50% to ensure majority of its readers
(Filipino OFW) will receive a copy regularly.
3. To increase its regular issue frequency from monthly to a bi-monthly issue.
DISCLAIMER
Different opinions are encourage to stimulate mem-
In this connection, SULYAPINOY is asking your generous support to this program. You ber input and involvement. SULYAPINOYs role is
can give your donation of any amount at SULYAPINOY distribution area or at its office at to provide information that permits FEWA members
OK AIRTEL VISION ASIA (in front of Hyehwa Catholic Church) and Woori Bank during to develop informed opinions on subjects that will
Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you have questions please contact (010-9294- affect their status as migrant workers and, in some
instances, their personal lives. FEWA does not
4365 / 010-5143-1628)or email at sulyap_chiefeditor@hotmail.com, hold itself responsible for statements made
sulyap_sports@hotmail.com, or ajuanites@yahoo.com. by any contributor. Statements or opinions
expressed in SULYAPINOY reflect the views of
Thank you to your constant support. SULYAPINOY is wishing you the best the author(s) and not the official policy of FEWA
unless so stated.
throughout the year!

8 SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008

 ENTERTAINMENT

By: Dave & Alwyin

Reviewed by: Angela, Korean Teacher of Miriam Center School
By: Sofonias ‘Chabok’ Paragsa
Topic: 급여 명세서 Geup-Yeo Myeong-Se-Seo Salary Slip

회사명 Hwoe-Sa Myeong Company Name

성명 Seong Myeong Name
부서명 Bu-Seo Myeong Department Name

사번 Sa-Beon Employee Number ; 직위 Jik-Wi Job Position

Answer to December Issue
급여 형태 Geup-Yeo Hyeong-Tae Salary Form

지급액 Ji-Geup- Aek Payment [Salary] Breakdown ACROSS DOWN

1) Summer 1) together
지급 내역 Ji-Geub Nae-Yeok Payment [Salary] Breakdown
2) to sleep 3) factory
수당내역 Su-Dang Nae-Yeok Allowance Breakdown 4) place of origin 5) grateful, thankful
기본급 Gi-Bon-Geup Basic Salary
7) beautiful 6) name
9) Monday 7) no (with respect)
기본급여 Gi-Bon Geup-Yeo Basic Salary 11) cooking 8) coffee shop
업무수당 Eop-Mu Su-Dang Duty Allowance 12) fruit 9) monthly salary
10) Sunday
정상근무 Jeong-Sang Geun-Mu Normal Work Salary

식대 – 야근 Shik-Dae Ya-Geun Night-duty Food Allowance

식대 Shik-Dae Food Allowance
상여금 Sang-Yeo-Geum Bonus (Received during추석 & 설날)
특별상여금 Teuk-Byeol Sang-Yeo-Geum Special Bonus
수당총계 Su-Dang Chong-Gye Total Allowance
지급합계액 Ji-Geup Hap-Gye-Aek Total Payment (Gross Salary)
지급총액 Ji-Geup Chong-Aek Total Payment (Gross Salary)
총지급액 Chong Ji- Geup-Aek Total (Gross Salary) Payment
공제내역 Gong-Je Nae-Yeok Deduction [Salary] Breakdown
국민연금 Guk-Min Yeon-Geum National Pension
건강보험 Geon-Gang Bu-Heom Health Insurance
의료보험 Ui-Ryo Bo-Heom Medical Insurance
고용보험 Go-Yong Bo-Heom Employment Insurance
Instructions:
1) Fill the white squares with numbers 1 to 9
so that they add up to the sums shown in
highlighted squares (gray color).
By: Dondave Jabay 2) A gray color square will show one or two
numbers separated by a diagonal
line.
3) A number that is above the diago-
nal line is the sum of the row of white
squares to its right.
4) A number that is below the diago-
nal line is the sum of the column of
white squares beneath it.

식대공제 Shik-Dae Gong-Je Food Expenses Deduction

Two important rules:
1) There are no zeroes.
가불금 Ga-Bul-Geum Advance Salary Payment
2) Do not put the same number in
결근 Gyeol-Geun Absences ; 지각 Ji-Gak Tardiness
each sum of the row of white
조퇴 Jo-Toe Undertime ; 기타공제 Gi-Ta Gong-Je Other Deductions squares to its right or column be-
공제총액 Gong-je Chong-Aek Total (Salary) Deductions neath it.
공제합계액 Gong-Je Hap-Gye-Aek Total (Salary) Deductions

소득세 Su-Deuk-Se Income Tax

주민세 Ju-Min-Se Resident Tax Answer to December Issue

특별성과급 Teuk-Byeol Seong-Gwa-Geup Incentives (Performance Based)
Congratulations!!!
연장근무 Yeon-Jang Geun-Mu Overtime Pay (normal day overtime including Saturday)
Nestor Arenas (first person who got the correct
기본연장 Gi-Bon Yeon-Jang Basic Pay (Special Process) answer) & Amie Sison (2nd person person who
잔업수당 Jan-Eop Su-Dang Overtime Pay (normal weekdays overtime) got the correct answer)
잔업시간Jan-Eop Shi-Gan Overtime Hours (normal weekdays overtime)

시간외 수당Shi-Gan-Woe Su-Dang Overtime Pay (normal weekdays overtime)

특근수당Teuk-Geun Su-Dang Special Overtime Pay (Saturdays, Sundays and Official Holidays)

특근시간Teuk-Geun Shi-Gan Special Overtime Hours (Saturdays, Sundays and Official Holidays)

특근잔업수당Teuk-Geun Jan-Eop Su-Dang Special Overtime Pay (Saturdays, Sundays and Official Holidays)

특근잔업시간Teuk-Geun Jan- Shi-Gan Special Overtime Hours (Saturdays, Sundays and Official Holidays)

심야수당Shim-Ya Su-Dang Night-work Differential (fall-in from 10:00PM - 6:00AM night-work)

심야시간Shim-Ya Shi-Gan Night-work Hours (fall-in from 10:00PM - 6:00AM night-work)

야근수당 Ya-Geun Su-Dang Night-work Overtime Pay (Work until 10:00 PM only)

여성수당 Yeo-Seong Su-Dang Woman Work Allowance (Applicable for women only)

SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008 9

 LITERARY
YEAR OF THE RAT
Bro. Joel Y. Tavarro
Marami sa atin ang naniniwala sa mga maling kasabihan
Subalit sa mga salita ng Diyos ay halos hindi
mapakinggan
Mga pangaral,mabuting balita at tamang katuruan
Tungo sa kabutihan para sa ating kaligtasan.
Year of the rat, panahon ba ng taghirap
Isang paniniwala na kapos sa kaalaman
Kung katawan ay tamad at hindi makapag banat
Malamang maghirap, mamatay na ang mata ay dilat.
Maling paniniwala hindi dapat pagtuunan
Huwag panaligan ang pamahiing walang batayan
Sapagkat isa itong likha o gawa-gawa lamang
Maaring kathang-isip mula sa dakilang batugan.
Paanong hindi mauubusan ang iyong pitaka
Kung ang laman ng isip ay puro pag aaksaya
Beer house, sugalan at babae ay madalas na iyong punta
Tiyak ang bulsa ay butas, wala pang napala.
Walang habas na pag gasta at bukas ay nakatanga
Gawain na hangal masabi lang na may kaya
Asal talangka na minana pa noong una
Habang sa kasalukuyan nangyayari at ginagawa.
Kalimutan na ang ganitong panukala
Walang hatid na tulong isa pa ay nakakasama
Kung paniniwalaan hindi makakamtam ang biyaya
Kung hindi magsisikap walang maabot na pagpapala.
Panghawakan ang mga salita sa banal na kasulatan
Sapagkat si Yahweh ang ating sandigan
Manalig ka sa kanya at ibibigay ang pangangailangan
Siya ay magpakailanmang Diyos ang hari ng sanlibutan.
BATA KA PA
Amie Sison
Bata ka pa lang nang ika'y aming sinuportahan
Pagkat ang iyong Ina ay mura pa ang isipan
Sinalo namin ang lahat nang iyong pangangailangan
Magandang kinabukasan sayo ilalaan.
Hanggang sa ako ay napunta dito sa Korea
Mga pinansyal na pangangailangan sinalo ko mag-isa
Pag aaral at luho mo ay masuportahan ka
Kahit good grades na kapalit ito'y sapat na.
Naging masama ang loob ko nang ika'y nagloko
Mas pinili mo pa ang barkada mo
At pag aaral ay itinigil mo
Nasayang ang lahat ng naitulong ko.
Lumalayo ka sa ating pamilya
Akala mo kaya mo mag isa
Nakikitira sa iyong barkada
Lulong sa akala mong buhay na maganda.
Pagdating nang araw magsisi ka rin
Sa tigas ng ulo mo di namin kayang pigilin
Sa murang edad mo ikaw na ay nagmamagaling
Sa hamon ng buhay kaya mo nang harapin.
Di pa huli para sa isang pagbabago
Kung babalik ka ika'y muling tatanggapin ko
Pagkat isa ka sa mga responsibildad ko
Ipagdasal ko na lang ang takbo ng buhay ko.
10 SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008
PAKIKIPAG-RELASYON
ni Rogelio P. Domingo Jr.
Kadalasan,ang pagkakaibigan ay nasusubukan sa pamamagitan ng pagkakalayo at pagiging tahimik ng isa't
isa; maaaring malayo kayo sa isa't isa o di nakakapag-usap. Sa iyong pakikipagkaibigan sa Panginoon, hindi
mo palaging mararamdamang malapit Siya sa iyo. "Lahat ng pakikipagrelasyon ay may panahon ng pagiging
malapit at may panahon ng pagiging malayo," at sa ating pakikipag-ugnayan sa Panginoon, kahit na gaano
pa ito kalalim, ay may panahon na magiging ganoon. Dito nagiging mahirap ang ating pananampalataya.
Madaling sumampalataya sa Diyos kapag maganda ang takbo ng buhay mo---kapag pinagkakalooban ka
Niya ng pagkain, mga kaibigan, pamilya, kalusugan, at masasayang sitwasyon. Pero hindi palaging kaaya-
aya ang mga nangyayari sa atin. Kapag nagkagayon, paano ka sasampalataya sa Diyos? Ano ang gagawin
mo kung ang Diyos ay parang isang milyong milya ang layo sa iyo?
Kapag ang Diyos ay tila malayo, puwede mong isiping nagagalit Siya sa iyo o kaya'y dinidisiplina ka dahil sa
isang kasalanan. Talagang pinuputol ng kasalanan ang pagka-malapit mo sa Diyos. Pinalulungkot natin ang
Banal na Espiritu at pinapatay natin ang apoy ng ating pakikipag- ugnayan sa Kanya dahil sa ating pagsuway,
pakikipag alitan sa iba, sobrang kaabalahan, pakikipagkaibigan sa mundo, at iba pang mga kasalanan.
Ngunit kadalasan, ang pakiramdam na iniwan ka ng Diyos o nakahiwalay ka sa Kanya ay walang kinalaman
sa kasalanan. Ito'y isang pagsubok sa ating pananampalataya -isang pagsubok na kailangang harapin nat ng
lahat. Patuloy ka bang iibig, magtitiwala, susunod, at sasampalataya sa Diyos , kahit na hindi mo nararamda-
man ang Kanyang presensiya o kaya'y wala kang makitang ebidensiya na may ginagawa Siyang mabuti sa
buhay mo?
Halimbawang wala ngang nagawa ang Diyos para sa iyo, karapat-dapat pa rin siyang makatanggap ng papuri
mula sa iyo habang buhay. Ito'y dahil sa ginawa ni Jesus sa krus para mailigtas ka. Ang Anak ng Diyos ay
namatay para sa iyo! Ito ang pinakadakilang dahilan ng pananampalataya natin sa Kanya.
Ang karaniwan pagkakamali ng mga Katoliko ngayon sa pananampalataya ay maghanap ng isang karanasan
kaysa maghanap sa Diyos. Naghahanap sila ng isang klase ng damdamin, at kapag ito'y naganap, sa tingin
nila'y sumasammpalataya na sila. Mali! Ang totoo, madalas alisin ng Diyos ang mga emosyon natin para hindi
tayo umasa rito. Ang paghahanap ng isang damdamin, kahit pa ang pakiramdam ng pagiging malapit kay
Cristo ay hindi pananampalataya.
Madalas para kang bata kung manalangin at ang mga dasal mo'y puro makasarili--pero sinasagot din Niya
ang mga ito para malaman mong Siya'y totoo. Habang lumalago ka sa pananampalataya, unti -unti ka Niyang
tuturuang huwag umasa sa ganitong sistema.
Oo nga't nais Niyang madama mo ang Kanyang presensiya, pero mas gusto Niya ang magtiwala ka sa Kanya
kaysa sa maramdaman mo Siya. Pananalig, hindi damdamin ang nakalulugod sa Diyos.
Paano ka magpupuri sa Diyos kung hindi mo naiintindihan ang nangyayari sa buhay mo at ang Diyos ay
tahimik? Paano mo pananatilihin ang ugnayan mo sa Kanya kapag dumadaan ka sa isang krisis at wala
kayong komunikasyon? Paano ka mananatiling nakatitig kay Jesus kung ang mga mata mo ay puno ng luha?
Ang pinakamalalim na antas ng pananampalataya ay ang pagpupuri sa Diyos Kahit na tayo'y nasasaktan,
pagpapasalamat sa Kanya sa gitna ng isang pagsubok, pagtitiwala sa Kanya kapag tayo'y natutukso, pag-
suko sa Kanya sa gitna ng pagdurusa, at pagmamahal sa Kanya kahit na Siya'y tila malayo. Kung nadarama
mong iniwan ka na ng Diyos ngunit patuloy ka pa ring nagtitiwala sa Kanya, ikaw ay sumasampalataya sa
Kanya sa pinaka malalim na paraan.
Ang bawat isa'y may kani-kanyang layunin at ambisyon
TESDA BATCH '96 Huwag lamang kaligtaan mga mahal sa buhay na ating inspirasyon
Marvin M. Babasa Ituon ang isip sa trabaho para sa mga obligasyon
Higit sa lahat huwag makalimot sa ating mahal na Panginoon.
Kamusta na kayo mga kasamahan at kaibigan
Dalawang taon na rin ng ang bayan ay ating nilisan Kahit na abala, di dpat pabayaan
Sa ibang bansa’y nagtungo upang hanapin ang kapalaran Katawan ay ingatan na tangi nating puhunan
Hangarin ng bawat isa'y mapabuti ang kalagayan. Gatas, bitamina, at prutas para sa mabuting kalusugan
Upang malayo sa sakit at hindi dapuan.
Sa TESDA noon ay nagkita-kita, naalaala n'yo pa ba?
Iba't-ibang istorya ng buhay, ibinahagi sa isa't-isa Katuparan sa mga pangarap ngayon ay abot kamay
Walang ibang minimithi kundi ang pamilya'y maiahon sa hirap Dalangin ko sa lahat kamitin yaring tagumpay
Kaya itong pagpupunyagi ay ginawa ng lubusan. Huwag din sanang kalimutan saan man magpunta
Anuman ang iyong marating sa pakikibaka.
Ngayon nga ay nandito na sa dayuhang bansa
Pakikisama at pakikipagkaibigan ang ating sandata TESDA Batch '96 ,di dapat mawaglit sa inyong gunita
Kalasag ay taimtim na dasal ay huwag kalimutan, Masayang samahan at kulitan sana'y ating balikan
Sapagkat ito ay susi tungo sa katagumpayan. Dahil minsan ay nadama ang nakatutuwang barkadahan
Pangungumusta ko sa inyo, sa tula na lamang idinaan.

Magandang araw po sa lahat! Salamat po sa
pagtangkilik sa pahayagang ito. Simula po sa
isyung ito ay matutunghayan ninyo ang aking
column. Naisip ko pong maglabas ng ganitong
column sapagkat maraming mga Pilipino na hindi
makauwi sa Pilipinas o makahinto sa pagtatra-
baho sa ibang bansa dahil sa kanilang palagay
ay di pa sapat ang kanilang naipon o perang
naitabi upang magpatuloy ng bagong buhay sa
Pilipinas. Naisip kong masmagandang maka-
pagbahagi ako ng financial management advice
para sabay sabay naten maiuwi ang pangarap ng
ating mga pamilya. Let me share with you a letter
sent by an OFW in Banwol.
===================================
Dear Ate Rose,
Ni-renew po ng employer ko ang aking contract
sa Korea. Hindi po ako nakapag-ipon nung una
kong punta dito dahil akala ko ang maginhawang
buhay ay walang katapusan. Naubos ko po ang
pera sa kakainom at kaka-noraebang. Ang asawa
ko naman po ay naubos ang aking padala sa
kakapunta ng mall para magshopping. Bigyan nyo
naman po ako ng financial management tips para
this time ay makap-ipon naman ako para mabi-
gyan ng magandang kinabukasan ang aking
pamilya.
Sincerely,
Ramil Dimaguiba
OUR SPONSORS
Dear Ramil,
Bilang Overseas Filipino, one of the most important things to learn is financial discipline. Mayroong dala-
wang important elements ng financial discipline.
First ay ang self-discipline o disiplina sa sarili kung ano ang gagawin sa perang kinikita. Parati mong isipin
na kaya ka pumunta sa Korea ay para bigyan ng magandang buhay ang iyong pamilya.
Ang perang inuubos mo sa iyong bisyo ay perang mailalaan mo sana sa kinabukasan nila. Masaya tayo
kapag nakakapagpadala tayo ng malaki sa Pilipinas. Kaya lang kailangan ng plano at sistema sa pagpapadala.
Planning is an important part of self discipline. Decide how much and how often you’ll send money to your family.
This way sigurado tayong sapat at tama at darating sa tamang oras ang ating padala! The lack of a systematic
plan in sending remittances is the main reason kung bakit karamihan sa atin ay hindi nakakaipon.
Second ay ang family discipline. Ito ay ang pamumuhay ayon sa nakapagkasunduang budget at pagiingat sa
gastos ng padalang pera. Magkano nga ba ang tamang family budget? Ganito po ang suggestion ko. Magan-
dang pagusapan bilang isang pamilya ang current na gastusin. Kailangan pagkasunduan ang monthly expenses.
Kung noong bago ka umalis ay nagkakasya ang monthly budget na P15,000 ay maaari lamang tumbasan ito
ngaung nandito ka na uli sa Korea. Responsibility ng pamilya mo na mamuhay ng tama at pagkasyahin ang
agreed upon monthly budget. Itabi ang extra para sa savings na magagamit para sa emergency needs o special
occasions.
Bukod sa regular na padala ay darating din ang oras na hihingi sila ng additional money for unplanned
expenses or emergencies. That is why it is very important to stay connected or to keep in close touch with your
family. Kailangan updated ka sa mga latest tungkol sa iyong pamilya. Lalo kung may important developments
requiring financial decisions o additional na gastusin. Be involved! Ikaw ang kumikita ng pera. Kahit na malayo ka
sa pamilya, you have a right and a responsibility to help your family spend that money wisely. Para di mapunta
ang ating pinagpaguran sa wala let me share with you the secret kung paano tayo makakaipon ng sigurado. Ang
secret ay sa pagbabago ng relationship between income, savings and expense. Sa ngayon, chances are ganito
ang formula na ginagamit natin. Income minus expense is equal to savings. Itinatabi lang naten ang perang
natira pagtapos tayo gumastos. Minsan ay wala pang natitira dahil ang ating expenses ay kasing laki lang ng
ating kita. Worse ay ang ating expenses ay higit pa kaysa sa ating kita kaya tayo nagkakautang. Paano kaya
kung baguhin kaya natin? Income minus savings is equal to expense. Yan po ang suggested formula that is
GUARANTEED to help save money for your future.
Kung mayroon po kayong tanong on how to manage your finances ay maaaring mag-email sa
rsgeronimo@hotmail.com. Sa inyo namang remittance, maaari po kayong magpadala sa BPI through Woori
Bank at very low remittance fees and competitive exchange rates. Ang Woori Bank Hyehwadong Branch ay
bukas kada lingo. Maaari kayong magpadala credit to your BPI, BPI Family Bank and BPInoy Savings Account.
Pwede ring pick up at any BPI branch, door-to-door and credit to other banks.
Ate Rose
SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008 11
FEWA HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
T he initial idea to establish an organization of Filipino EPS workers
in Korea emerged sometime in the later half of year 2005 while Fr.
Glenn Giovanni B. Jaron, MSP, and Rebenson B. Recaña and his fellow
EPS workers were at Ilsan Labor Center facilitating the early cases of
requests for release. They discussed about the increasing problems
faced by the EPS workers and the wisdom of having an organization
that will help address the problems.
Fr. Glenn, the tireless, venerable prime mover of Hyehwa-dong Filipino
Catholic Community (HFCC), has been dealing with a myriad of prob-
lems and issues involving the Filipino migrant workers in Korea even
prior to the implementation of the EPS Program that suddenly brought in
hundreds of OFWs. In the Pastoral Center for Filipino Migrants or more
commonly known as the Center, Fr. Glenn acted both as the pastoral
chaplain and at the same time a voluntary liaison to the Filipino migrant
workers. With the advent of the EPS Program, all of a sudden the Cen-
ter, had to accommodate the onslaught of EPS workers asking for help
with their various problems that ranges from unpaid compensation to
outright physical abuse. Thus, the idea of establishing an organization
out of this new face of OFW’s came naturally and inevitably; both out of
necessity and proactive response to the inherent imperfections of the
program.
The idea finally took ground when Fr. Glenn brought it up with the mem-
bers of the Justice and Peace Committee of the HFCC, the same Com-
mittee responsible for tackling the issues of migrant workers in general
and has been assisting him in dealing the sudden surge of EPS cases
at the Center. The visionary concept was to establish an organization of
EPS workers that will empower them to be able to help themselves in
addressing the many and different difficulties, problems and issues they
encounter while staying as a migrant worker in Korea. The members of
the EPS Adhoc Committee at that time were Nicolasito Marquez, Boni-
facio Famis, Ariel Epino, Marciano Gonzales, Jr. and Rebenson Re-
caña. Sometime in November 2005, the adhoc committee finally formed
a core group that made the ball rolling. New members came in, namely
Glenn Rey Agad , Reynaldo Centeno, Jr., Nelson Valenzuela and a bit
later, Romeo Faltado. For a start, it was then agreed that each member
shall do his own research on how to draft the Constitution and By-Laws.
In December of 2005, it was decided by the HFCC Pastoral Council that
the present group working on EPS matters shall be an independent
Committee apart from the Justice and Peace Committee – its early
JOIN
NOW!
Membership Forms are available
at the FEWA Office
(during Sundays)
115-9 Songbuk-gu, Songbuk-dong, Seoul, Korea or at OK
Vision Airtel and
Woori Bank Hyehwa-dong Branch
12 SULYAPINOY JANUARY 2008
affiliation. Thus, the group became both an independent working group
for the establishment of an EPS organization and at the same time a
Committee within the HFCC. It was also around this period that the re-
cruitment process for membership up to the to-be-established organiza-
tion stage had started.
Early in January 2006, working group member Glen Rey Agad submitted
a logo design and a sample copy of a Constitution and By-Laws together
with his own initial inputs thereof. Both has thereafter evolved to become
an integral part of the organization’s personality.
On January 22, 2006, the EPS Adhoc committee passed a motion offi-
cially naming the organization as Filipino EPS Workers Association or
simply FEWA. On the same occasion, with the explicit consensus of the
body, the following were the FEWA ADHOC committee members: Nico-
lasito Marquez, Glenn Rey Agad, Bonifacio Famis, Nelson Valenzuela,
Marciano Gonzales Jr., Reynaldo Centeno Jr., Ariel Epino, Romeo
Faltado and Rebenson Recaña .
It was also on this meeting that the first formal deliberation on the pre-
liminary draft of the Constitution and By-Laws was conducted. The pro-
ceedings thereof were documented on the first official minutes of the
organization. On the same meeting, the date for Elections and Referen-
dum of the Constitution was tentatively set.
By February, a working copy of the Constitution and By-Laws was al-
ready circulated and initiated among the members of the EPS Adhoc
committee and a comprehensive list of over a hundred pre-organization
members, who themselves later became the founding voters and officers
of the organization.
The first big step in the ultimate realization of FEWA as an organization
happened in March 5, 2006 with the holding of the very first FEWA Gen-
eral Assembly. It was attended by Fr. Glenn Giovanni Jaron, MSP and a
representative of the Philippine Embassy in South Korea in the person of
Vice Consul General Juan Dayang. The assembly became the forum for
the first formal introduction of EPS Adhoc committee to its founding con-
stituents as well as the vehicle for the introduction of the official working
copy of the FEWA Constitution and By-Laws.
To be continued.