A migrant advocacy group said those pushing for a mandatory psychiatric test for Filipinos seeking work abroad should have their heads examined. Nice idea. :)

The proposed mandatory psychiatric test only betrays the Arroyo government’s low regard for workers, Migrante Int’l. said.

Migrante chairperson Connie Bragas-Regalado said in a statement, "For the Arroyo government, those that they have hailed as "bagong bayanis" (new heroes) are lunatics." She also said "It is the (officials of the) Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and, definitely, not the OFWs who should have their heads examined if they really believe mandatory psychiatric tests could help prevent OFWs from snapping in the workplace.

Regalado also said the DFA should realize that deplorable working conditions overseas; verbal, physical, emotional and sexual abuse; torture and non-payment of wages are major factors that drive OFWs to the brink of insanity.