People hold national flags of the Philippines and placards during the Democratic Confederation of Labour demonstration marking International Labor Day in Rabat, Morocco, May 1. As authorities in Seoul are trying to recruit 100 Filipino caregivers for 100 households as part of their effort to boost Korea's birthrate, a group promoting rights of migrant workers said a lack of clarity in the scope of their work could emerge as a controversial issue eventually. EPA-Yonhap

As authorities in Seoul are trying to recruit 100 Filipino caregivers for 100 households as part of their effort to boost Korea's birthrate, a group promoting the rights of migrant workers said a lack of clarity in the scope of their work could emerge as a controversial issue eventually.

In a recent statement, Migrant Forum in Asia (MFA), a Philippines-based umbrella network of migrant groups, NGOs and rights activists, urged the Korean government to clearly define the workers' roles as vague contract terms could expose them to the risk of exploitation.

"The project's scope of work seems to encompass both domestic work (cleaning, cooking, laundry) and caregiving (childcare, eldercare, support for pregnant women)," the group said. "This lack of clarity could lead to exploitation and underpayment of Filipino workers."

This comes as the officials in both countries are working together for the pilot project. Next month, the first group of workers will arrive in the city. If successful, more Filipino caregivers are expected to be hired to cover the demand nationwide as the policy expands.

The project document says the caregivers shall provide caregiving assistance to the children and pregnant mother of the designated family. The workers "may also assist with incidental and light household management activities for cohabiting family members."

MFA said the scope of work should differentiate between caregivers and domestic workers, adding that the contract should also specify minimum and maximum hours of work.

The Philippines government is now selecting applicants, who would then undergo comprehensive medical, psychological, language and physical assessments. This process is expected to be completed by June 21.