TINGOG Representative and Chair of Overseas Workers Affairs in the House of Representatives Jude A. Acidre on Monday vowed the protection of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) during a flag raising ceremony at the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) headquarters in Mandaluyong City.
“For our part in the House of Representatives led by the Speaker of the People, Rep. Martin Romualdez, we are committed to pass legislative measures targeted towards upholding and protecting the rights of our OFWs. We are focused on enhancing the services and programs that safeguard the rights and well-being of our overseas workers,” Acidre said.
He emphasized the efforts of the government in helping OFWs, such as legal, health, and education assistance for them and their families. Rep. Acidre said they are committed to creating a holistic support system to empower OFWs both abroad and at home.
“Bukod pa rito, patuloy tayong magsisikap na palakasin ang ating pakikipag-ugnayan sa mga internasyonal na organisasyon, bansang pinagtatrabahuhan, at mga lokal na komunidad. By fostering collaboration and dialogue, we can create a global framework that not only protects our workers but also promotes mutual understanding and respect among nations,” he added.
Acidre lauded the DMW and its work in helping the country’s modern day heroes. The government remains steadfast in protecting OFWs’ interests and dignities, he vowed.
“The establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers is a pivotal step in this direction, signaling our unwavering resolve to provide comprehensive support and robust advocacy for our overseas workers,” he said during his speech.
Acidre recognized the sacrifices and hardships faced by OFWs just to provide comfortable lives for their families. He said these brave people embody the spirit of resiliency that significantly contributes to the growth and prosperity of the country.
“Sa ating mga overseas workers, utang namin ang pasasalamat na hindi kayang ipahayag ng mga salita. Your courage and determination inspire us to work harder and aim higher. Kayo ang buhay na patunay ng diwa ng Pilipino – matatag, puno ng pag-asa, at hindi sumusuko,” Rep. Acidre added.
Present in the flag raising ceremony were DMW officials led by Sec. Hans Leo J. Cacdac, Officer in Charge (OIC) Usec. Felicitas Bay, OIC Usec. Violeta Illescas, Asec. Jerome Alcantara, Asec. Jerome Pampolina, Asec. Levinson Alcantara, Asec. Venecio Legaspi, OIC Asec. Ma. Regina Galias, and Dir. Augusto San Diego.
