President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. praised overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the United Arab Emirates, calling them a “source of pride and honor” for their contributions to both the UAE and the Philippines.
Speaking before about 700 Filipinos in Abu Dhabi, Marcos Jr. highlighted the key role of Filipinos in the UAE’s growth since 1971 and lauded OFWs worldwide for their resilience, hard work, and professionalism.
He assured them of the government’s continued commitment to protecting their welfare and expanding opportunities at home and abroad.
The President said the Philippines is strengthening economic ties with the UAE through trade and investment, stressing that these efforts aim to open more jobs and markets for Filipinos.
He also urged OFWs to pursue lifelong learning and sustain the spirit of bayanihan.
During his two-day visit, Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and a Defense Cooperation MOU with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, calling both deals key to boosting trade, security, and bilateral ties.
An OFW Serbisyo Caravan held alongside the visit served 694 Filipinos, with 2,387 transactions recorded, including assistance for 117 cancer patients. Marcos closed by thanking OFWs for bringing honor to the nation and the UAE government for its support of the Filipino community.
