POLO Rome: Mandatory Vaccination for OFWs in Italy
The Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Rome has reminded Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Italy to get fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This reminder comes in light of the implementation of the ‘Green Pass’ system in Italy and neighboring European countries. The ‘Green Pass’ is a digital certificate that provides proof of vaccination, COVID-19 recovery, or a negative test result.
Being fully vaccinated has become a requirement for OFWs to continue working in Italy. It is now part of the procedures that they need to fulfill in order to report to work. The POLO in Rome emphasized the importance of Mandatory vaccination for OFWs in Italy as a means to protect oneself and others from the coronavirus disease.
This information is based on a published report on the Philippine News Agency portal from October 26, 2021. Please note that the situation regarding COVID-19 and vaccination requirements may have evolved since my last knowledge update in September 2021. It is always advisable to consult the latest official sources and guidelines for the most up-to-date information on vaccination requirements for OFWs in Italy or any other country.
Green Pass Requirement for all Workers in Italy
On October 15, the EU Green Pass requirement was implemented in Rome, Italy. This requirement mandated that workers must possess either a digital or paper certificate to prove that they have been vaccinated, tested negative for Covid-19, or have recovered from it.
The Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Rome issued a warning stating that this order may have an impact on Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who choose not to get vaccinated. They emphasized that currently, the immunization program is open and accessible to all individuals.
According to this policy, employees without a Green Pass are not allowed to enter their workplace. If an employee is absent for five days due to not having the Green Pass, their leave is considered ‘unjustified,’ and they will not receive payment until they can present the required documentation. However, it’s important to note that employers cannot terminate employees solely based on their lack of a Green Pass.
In Italy, the digital and printable (paper) version of the certificate is issued by the DGC National Platform of the Ministry of Health. This certificate includes a QR code for rapid response and a certified electronic seal to ensure its authenticity and validity.
Fine for Violators of Green Pass Rule
The proposal for the free and safe movement of EU citizens during the COVID-19 epidemic originated from a European Commission initiative aimed at assisting people in its member states. This proposal was introduced to ensure that EU citizens could continue to travel and work within the European Union while taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.
To enforce the restrictions related to movement during the pandemic, workers who violate these rules may face fines ranging from 600 to 1,500 euros, which is approximately equivalent to PHP35,000 to PHP88,000.
Italy has become the first European country to require COVID-19 health passes for all workers. This means that individuals employed in Italy need to possess a health pass, demonstrating their vaccination status, recent negative test results, or recovery from the virus.
For Filipinos who may have questions about the new rules and policies or need assistance with labor concerns, they can seek help from the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Rome. The POLO in Rome, Italy serves as the primary entity responsible for receiving complaints and addressing concerns of Filipino workers residing abroad. They can provide guidance, support, and assistance to Filipinos regarding their employment and labor-related matters in Italy.
conclusion,
the mandatory vaccination policy for OFWs in Rome, Italy, is a proactive measure aimed at safeguarding public health, POLO Rome: Mandatory Vaccination for OFWs in Italy protects OFWs, facilitates travel and work opportunities, and supports global vaccination efforts. By ensuring that OFWs are vaccinated, the policy contributes to controlling the spread of COVID-19 and mitigating its impact both locally and internationally.