President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday renewed his administration’s commitment to care for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families, especially those struggling to recover from recent typhoons and floods, as he led the distribution of emergency assistance in Pampanga.
Addressing hundreds of beneficiaries at the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center, President Marcos lauded the sacrifices of Filipino workers abroad and pledged that his administration would “be there in times of need,” especially when their families back home face disasters and crises.
“Your hardships are not to be forgotten, being away from family while working abroad for the future of your loved ones,” Mr. Marcos said.
“When there are problems or calamities here in the Philippines, your worries are double or triple. That’s why we are here to deliver assistance,” he added.
Under the AKSYON Fund program, around 3,000 OFWs and their families affected by recent flooding in Pampanga received P5,000 each in financial aid.
President Marcos also announced that the Office of the President would match the assistance with an additional P5,000 per beneficiary.
The AKSYON Fund, implemented by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), offers more than just cash relief. It also provides legal, medical, emergency, and other forms of support to OFWs and their families during critical times.
Mr. Marcos praised the crucial contributions of Filipino workers overseas, saying their dedication, skill, and professionalism have earned the Philippines a strong global reputation.
“Every leader I talk to in other countries says first how capable Filipinos are, hardworking, kind, quick learners, and excellent,” he said.
He added that OFWs not only sustain the economy through remittances but also “send hope and dignity” to the Filipino people.
During the event, Mr. Marcos also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the DMW, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Pampanga provincial government.
The partnership seeks to implement programs against illegal recruitment and human trafficking, as well as strengthen coordination among government agencies to protect Filipinos before they even leave the country.
