SMX Convention Center, Pasay City
December 20, 2023
“Tunay talaga at napakalaki ng kontribusyon ng ating mga OFW sa ating lipunan. Sa ating lahat dito sa Pilipinas. Hindi lamang po remittance ang pinaguusapan at ang pagtulong sa ating ekonomiya. Baon din nila sa kanilang pag-uwi ang mga bagong kasanayan at kaalaman na ibinabahagi sa ating lakas-paggawa,” expressed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as he paid tribute to the sacrifices and contributions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) during a gathering with their families in Pasay City.
“Iniaalay namin ang araw na ito bilang parangal at pagpapasalamat sa inyong paghihirap, pagsisipag at inyong sakripisyo… Nais ko ring ipabatid sa inyo na hindi tumitigil ang pamahalaan sa pagkilos upang maipabuti ang inyong kalagayan,” the President conveyed, reassuring his countrymen of the Administration’s relentless pursuit in prioritizing their welfare and interests.
He mentioned a few of the initiatives implemented by the government in advancing OFWs’ rights overseas and protecting them from the threats of exploitation. These include the One Repatriation Command Center that operates 24/7 and facilitates the rescue, repatriation, counseling, legal assistance and reintegration services for distressed OFWs; provision of services and programs for OFWs who chose to go home and stay in the country; and other support mechanism for their families and loved ones such as the OFW Children Circle, educational assistance and the OFW Hospital in Pampanga, among many others.
The Chief Executive likewise conveyed that while OFWs are away pursuing their dreams for their families, the government remains committed in achieving its development goals in providing more opportunities and better life for all Filipinos.
“Layunin natin na ang pangingibang-bansa ay hindi na lamang dala ng pangangailangan upang maiahon ang pamilya sa kahirapan. Sa ‘Bagong Pilipinas,’ nais natin itong maging isang alternatibo na lamang dahil mas marami ang pagkakataon sa loob ng bansa,” he added.
In the pursuit of a new Philippines, President Marcos Jr. called on the OFW’s continued support and become a ‘makabagong Pilipino’ (new Filipino) that actively participates in the nation’s call for unity and transformation.
“Para makamit natin ito, hinihikayat ko ang lahat na yakapin ang pagiging isang makabagong Pilipino… Sa inyong patuloy na pakikiisa, buo ang tiwala ko na maitataguyod natin ang isang Bagong Pilipinas para sa mga Pilipino—ngayon at sa mga susunod pang henerasyon,” he ended in his message.
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