Berlin: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Promotes Fair Labor Practices for Filipino Workers
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines recently visited Berlin to strengthen partnerships with countries that host Filipino workers. The aim of this visit was to promote fair labor practices and ensure the dignified treatment of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
During his three-day working visit, President Marcos, accompanied by First Lady Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos and his delegation, met with thousands of Filipinos living and working in Germany. In his speech, President Marcos emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring that all OFWs are treated with respect and dignity.
President Marcos stated, “We continue to explore avenues for economic growth and employment opportunities both at home and abroad, and to implement programs that will create sustainable livelihood opportunities in the province, reducing the need for many Filipinos to seek employment overseas.” This highlights the government’s efforts to provide alternative opportunities for Filipinos within their own country.
To support the well-being of OFWs, President Marcos mentioned initiatives by the Department of Migrant Workers, such as the one repatriation command center and the 24/7 OFW helpline 1348. These resources aim to provide assistance and support for OFWs in need.
The government’s reintegration program for returning OFWs and educational assistance for their children were also highlighted by President Marcos. These programs aim to facilitate the smooth transition of OFWs back into their home country and provide educational opportunities for their families.
President Marcos expressed his dedication to ensuring that OFWs are treated with dignity and respect, stating, “We are working tirelessly to ensure that you are treated with the dignity and the respect that you deserve. Through various programs and initiatives, we strive to protect your rights, your welfare, and ensure your well-being and empowerment is assured.”
The president also acknowledged the significant contributions of OFWs to the Philippine economy. Remittances from Filipinos abroad reached a record-high of $33.5 billion last year. President Marcos referred to OFWs as “bagong bayani” or modern heroes, recognizing their vital role in the country’s economic growth.
The Philippine embassy reports that approximately 35,000 Filipinos in Germany work in various industries, including healthcare, information technology, hospitality, and academia. These individuals contribute to the German workforce while also supporting their families back in the Philippines.
Furthermore, President Marcos emphasized his efforts to attract foreign business leaders to invest or start their businesses in the Philippines. This strategy aims to boost the economy and create job opportunities, ultimately reducing the need for Filipinos to seek employment overseas.
President Marcos shared, “We are giving them incentives so they would build their factories in the Philippines. If they lack workers in Germany, why not open manufacturing plants in the Philippines? They have a lot of skilled, hardworking, and trustworthy Filipino workers to choose from.”
The government’s commitment to economic growth and employment opportunities extends beyond the Philippines. President Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to implementing programs that create sustainable livelihood opportunities, both domestically and internationally.
In conclusion, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s visit to Berlin highlights the Philippines’ commitment to promoting fair labor practices and ensuring the dignified treatment of overseas Filipino workers. Through various initiatives and partnerships, the government aims to provide support and create opportunities for OFWs, while also working towards economic growth and job creation within the country.
Source: The Manila Times
