More job opportunities in PH for Filipinos pledged
PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the government’s commitment yesterday to implementing governance and economic reforms to realize the vision of making overseas work an option rather than a necessity.
“Our dream is to, one day, make overseas work a choice rather than a necessity,” President Marcos said in his speech during the awarding of the 13 honorees of the 2024 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO).
“We continue to implement reforms in governance and economic development to provide our people with opportunities here at home,” he added.
President Marcos acknowledged that millions of individuals are migrating internationally for work opportunities.
The President emphasized the government’s steadfast dedication to safeguard the rights and well-being of overseas Filipinos and their families, regardless of their location.
Among the government’s initiatives are strengthening labor agreements with foreign countries, conducting aggressive campaigns against illegal recruitment and trafficking, and mobilizing the Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) na Nangangailangan Fund.
The President also highlighted open government communication channels for migrant workers through the One Repatriation command, as well as efforts to facilitate the safe repatriation of OFWs affected by calamities and conflicts.
“Our embassies and consulates abroad remain vigilant in looking after our people wherever they may be in the world,” the President said.
Before concluding his speech, President Marcos urged the awardees and all Filipinos overseas to continue serving their countrymen and the communities they call home. He also encouraged the public to draw inspiration from the remarkable contributions of the awardees.
The President extended his best wishes for a meaningful celebration and observance of the Overseas Filipino Month and a Merry Christmas. “And as you spend time with your loved ones, I invite you to revisit the beauty of our country, the richness of our culture, and the warmth of our people,” President Marcos said. PCO
