Well-being and service awareness of Filipino migrant workers in Kuwait: Basis for policy recommendations

This study assessed the well-being and service awareness of Filipino migrant workers in Kuwait City, Kuwait, using a mixed-methods research design to provide evidence-based insights for policy recommendations. The quantitative component involved surveys measuring levels of awareness, satisfaction, and perceived efficiency of Philippine government agencies responsible for migrant welfare, while the qualitative component explored migrant workers lived experiences and perceptions through open-ended responses. Results showed that migrant workers generally demonstrated moderate to high levels of emotional, mental, and social well-being. However, awareness of the mandates, accessibility, and efficiency of key government services was mostly moderate, with grand means ranging from 2.37 to 3.06. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) were perceived as the most efficient agencies, particularly in terms of accessibility, timeliness, and crisis support. In contrast, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Philippine Embassy received lower ratings in perceived effectiveness and service delivery. Qualitative findings revealed recurring challenges such as socio-economic hardship, emotional stress, financial pressure, and lack of assistance from the Embassy. Emotional and social support from Filipino communities emerged as critical in maintaining migrant workers’ mental well-being, although non-participation in community activities was also noted. The findings underscore the need for improved service coordination, targeted communication strategies, and expanded mental health and community engagement programs to better support Filipino migrant workers abroad.