The Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) has reported the recent decision of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSARG) to raise the present minimum allowable wage (MAW) for foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) by HK$50. From the present level of HK$3,270, the new MAW on FHDs will be HK$3,320 effective 19 May 2005.

The decision to raise the MAW for FDHs was reached after a regular review of Hong Kong's general economic and employment situation, as reflected through various economic indicators.

In line with this policy, the Hong Kong Immigration Department announced that it will process all employment contracts signed on or before 18 May 2005 stipulating a salary not lower than the present MAW of HK$3,270, provided that the applications have been filed with the Department on or before 15 June 2005.

At the same time, the POLO also announced that beginning 19 May 2005, employment contracts submitted for verification must stipulate a salary of not less than HK$3,320 per month. However, all contracts stipulating the old rate of HK$3,270 will still be accepted until 08 June 2005 provided they are signed on or before 18 May 2005.

For the information and guidance of all concerned.

Adopted: 30 June 2005

(SGD.) ROSALINDA DIMAPILIS-BALDOZ
Administrator