President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to actively contribute to building a stronger, united, and forward-looking Philippines—Bagong Pilipinas—during a speech to the Filipino community in Osaka, Japan on Saturday, June 21.
Citing the sacrifices of heroes from the Philippine Revolution, Marcos Jr. said today’s OFWs continue that legacy by working abroad to support their families and the nation.
“I call on every Filipino gathered here tonight: As our forefathers, the heroes of the Philippine Revolution, have sacrificed much to give us this freedom that we today enjoy, it is our duty to honor that hard-won gift,” the President declared, drawing parallels between the courage of today’s migrant workers and that of Filipinos who fought for the country’s freedom.
“Tungkulin natin bumuo ng isang kinabukasang karapat-dapat sa ating lahat. Isang bayang pinapanday sa tapang, pag-asa, at pagmamahal – ang isang Bagong Pilipinas,” he added.
Marcos Jr. highlighted the vital role OFWs play in driving economic growth and urged them to take part in national progress, not just through remittances, but also by staying engaged in the country’s development.
“Bilang inyong Pangulo, hangad kong mabigyan ang bawat Pilipino ng mas magandang buhay at mas maraming oportunidad. Naniniwala ako na ang tunay na pag-unlad ay nasusukat sa kakayanan ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino na mabuhay ng buo at maginhawa kasama ang kanilang mahal sa buhay sa sariling bayan,” he said.
The Chief Executive assured the Filipino community that his administration is working to make the Philippines a place where Filipinos no longer feel the need to leave to succeed.IMT
