President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. told the Filipino community in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Saturday that the government is working diligently to lessen the burden of OFWs.
Speaking to the Filipino community in Saudi Arabia before returning to the Philippines, Marcos praised the overseas Filipino workers’ “incredible determination and resilience” as they face the world while being away from their loved ones.
“I would be remiss, of course, if I do not speak of the difficulties and the challenges that you have all encountered. All of you have sacrificed being separated from your loved ones, your families, and your country,” Marcos said.
Marcos also praised OFWs for demonstrating Filipino friendliness and warmth, calling the Philippines a “remarkable tourist destination” for inhabitants in their host nations. He added that foreign employers admire the determination and resilience of Filipinos.
“On behalf of the government of the Philippines, I convey my gratitude and express my admiration to each and every one of you. You served as an inspiration to us all. The knowledge and the skills that you have acquired, your talent and hard work while you are here have proven to be invaluable assets to the Philippines, Marcos said.
He urged Filipinos in Saudi Arabia to help each other, especially OFWs in need. Marcos also asked the Filipinos to share their experiences with their countrymen and bring technical expertise back to the Philippines.
Marcos said the government established the OFW Pass to expedite and improve services for Filipino migrant workers as part of digitalizing public transactions.
“Your efforts have not gone unnoticed. I look forward to your return. With your help, the Philippine government’s integration programs will continue moving forward some brighter future for our country and for our people,” he said.
The Department of Foreign Affairs estimates 700,000 Filipinos working and living in Saudi Arabia.
Most Filipinos in Riyadh work in-home services, construction, tourism, hospitality, health care, and agriculture.