In a touching farewell, 28 Filipinos who embarked on a journey to Yeongju City on March 15 to partake in seasonal agricultural work have successfully wrapped up their mission. These industrious individuals, participants in the Mabalacat City program, dedicated eight months to assisting 12 farms, bridging the labor gap from planting to harvesting. The farewell gathering, graced by Yeongju City officials and the director of the Agricultural Technology Center, marked a joyous celebration of this fruitful collaboration.
But what's the tale behind these foreign seasonal worker programs? It appears they are vital systems tailored for short-term, intensive work during agricultural and fishery seasons. Residents of foreign local governments and relatives of marriage immigrants can join in, easing the strain on labor demand.
The success of these initiatives, however, exhibits regional disparities. While Gangwon takes the lead in both seasonal workers and defectors, Chungbuk showcases a seamlessly operated system. With government backing for regional visa policies, it becomes imperative for local governments to bolster networks and capabilities, ensuring a harmonious equilibrium in labor management and settlement support. With the burgeoning demand for foreign professionals, the future of such programs holds promise, fostering cultural exchange and fortifying international bonds.
The success of these initiatives, however, exhibits regional disparities. While Gangwon takes the lead in both seasonal workers and defectors, Chungbuk showcases a seamlessly operated system. With government backing for regional visa policies, it becomes imperative for local governments to bolster networks and capabilities, ensuring a harmonious equilibrium in labor management and settlement support. With the burgeoning demand for foreign professionals, the future of such programs holds promise, fostering cultural exchange and fortifying international bonds.
The 'Foreign Seasonal Worker Program' enables legal employment of foreigners in agriculture and fishing for up to 8 months, addressing seasonal labor needs. Local government heads introduce workers within allocated quotas, ensuring cooperation through MOUs and familial ties. Eligible participants include residents of foreign local governments, family members of marriage immigrants, and foreigners in Korea meeting seasonal work criteria.