Ople hails OFWs as PH celebrates National Migrant Workers Day

MANILA -- For their immense sacrifices to support their families and in helping the economy, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Susan Ople said a week-long activity has been prepared for the country’s overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families.

In celebration of the 28th National Migrants Week on Wednesday, Ople honored and recognized the OFWs for bringing pride to the nation.

In her video message posted on Facebook, Ople assured that the DMW will serve as the OFWs' home and ally in the government.

“Lagi kayong binibilin ng ating pangulo, si President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. at sabi nga niya alagaan kayong mabuti at huwag kami magkulang sa pagtatanggol ng inyong karapatan (Our President, President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. always reminds us to take good care of you and not fail in defending your rights),” Ople said.

“Makakaasa kayo na ang inyong tahanan sa gobyerno ay nandito palagi, 24/7 para kayo’y paglingkuran at ang inyong mga pangarap ay matupad dito man sa Pilipinas o saan mang panig ng mundo (You can count your home in the government that we will always be here, 24/7 to serve you and make your dreams come true whether it's here in the Philippines or anywhere in the world),” she added.

On Monday, Ople opened the week-long celebration with a bazaar and a photo exhibit contest featuring the Filipino seafarers, ahead of the International Seafarers Day slated on June 25.

The exhibit aims to recognize the contribution and sacrifices of Filipino seafarers, whose skills, ability, and charm showing their Filipino hospitality while performing their daily work aboard their vessels is known worldwide.

On Tuesday, the DMW held a send-off ceremony for Korea-bound workers at the DMW lobby.

On Wednesday, several agreements were signed by the DMW together with other concerned government agencies such as the Deaprtment of Trade and Industry and other stakeholders from the private sector for the impelemtation of a full-cycle reintegration programs for the OFWs.

Capacity-building trainings were also held for the OFWs as well as their families.

On Thursday, The DMW is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and BDO Foundation on “Pinansiyal na Talino at Kakayahan” (PiTaKa) project.

On Friday, the new DMW rules and regulations governing recruitment and employment of land-based overseas workers will be launched.

On June 12, Independence Day, an overseas jobs fair will be held at the DMW office building lobby, and on June 13, the DMW will sign another agreement with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) for the socialized housing project for eligible OFWs and their families.

Interested applicants for the job fair are encouraged to bring several copies of their resume, a photocopy of their passport, and to bring their own pen.

They are also encouraged to wear their face mask inside the building.

Meanwhile, aside from the OFWs, Ople also thanked the DMW employees and staff who tirelessly serve the migrant workers.

"Nakikita na nating nabubuo ang tahanan ng OFWs, kayo ang haligi niyan hindi lang ako kundi bawat isa sa inyo, kaya pagbutihin pa natin alang-alang sa kanila, magserbisyo tayo ng may integridad (We can already see the home of OFWs being built, you are the pillar of that, not only me but each of you, so let's do our best for them, let's serve with integrity),” Ople said.

Every June 7, the Philippines marks "National Migrant Workers' Day" to celebrate the signing of Republic Act No. 8042 or the Migrant Workers' Act of 1995.

DMW prepares full cycle of reintegration services for OFWs

To help empower more overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) signed on Wednesday an agreement on business training and mentorship program.

Migrant Workers Secretary Susan Ople, during the celebration of the 28th National Migrant Workers’ Day at the DMW office in Mandaluyong City, said a lot of OFWs aspire to return to the country to be with their families, thus, the Department has put together a full cycle of reintegration services for the workers.

"Our OFWs contribute to our economy through their dollar remittances but at some point in their lives, they would also need to come home and create sustainable sources of income through entrepreneurship, sound investments, or by landing a better job here at home,” she said.

She said this is the reason for the tie-up with DTI, citing that “our OFW-entrepreneurs and/or their families would be able to access business training and mentorship programs that would enable them to stay together while also providing jobs to others.”

Assistance assured Through the program, interested OFW’s will be given assistance on business registration process up to the marketing stage by linking them with large companies and government agencies.

Moreover, OFWs as well as their families will be given business training and undergo development programs. They will also be provided with financial literacy training courses in partnership with DMW and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

For better market access, Ople said the OFWs’ products and services will also be included in various DTI fairs here and abroad for increased promotion.

OFWs or members of their families who will be able to complete the registration of their businesses and finish the entrepreneurship training will be awarded certificates, which can be used to access livelihood or financial assistance from DMW.

Relatively, DMW also signed agreements with other government agencies such as the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and several private sector players to further uplift the welfare of OFWs.

Ople said the agreement with DTI and seven other major reintegration partners is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to help transform an OFW's journey into "inspirational stories for all time."

"We want them to come back with excitement in their hearts on what the future holds for them and their families, through meaningful partnerships across the government bureaucracy and with NGOs and private companies serving as their mentors and cheerleaders," she added.

The country celebrates National Migrant Workers’ Day every June 7 to celebrate the signing of Republic Act No. 8042 or the Migrant Workers' Act of 1995.

Gov't committed to ensuring safety, welfare of OFWs -- PBBM

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday assured the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) of his administration's strong commitment to uphold their safety and welfare.

Marcos made the assurance as he joined the entire nation in observing National Migrant Workers Day.

In a video message uploaded on his official Facebook page, the President said the Philippine government is keeping its "stronger" ties with the host countries to make sure that the OFWs would be accorded a safe working environment.

"We understand the challenges that you face being far from your loved ones, adjusting to new cultures, and overcoming barrier. And that’s why this administration will continue to foster stronger ties with countries that host our migrant workers, ensuring safety, welfare, and wellbeing," he said.

"As you build your dreams in far-off lands and seas, do know that you are not alone. The entire nation stands with you every step of the way and all of us are united in pride and in admiration for the work that gives you meaning and purpose."

Marcos hailed the OFWs as "modern-day heroes" who have made significant contributions to both the Philippines and the host countries.

Their sacrifices and hard work, he said, have "nurtured dreams, elevated livelihoods, and fueled the engine of progress in our beloved Philippines."

"Today, I speak before you with a heart full of gratitude and appreciation because today, we celebrate Migrant Workers Day. We honor our modernday heroes, our overseas Filipino workers. In every corner of the globe, you have left an indelible mark that uplifted both your host countries and our nation in the process," Marcos said.

"Your contributions have enriched the lives of countless individuals and societies through your different professions and capacities. Despite the miles that separate us, your heart and soul remain firmly rooted in our homeland. And your unwavering love for our nations shines bright."

He also told the OFWs that their efforts are being appreciated.

"As you commemorate this day, may your dreams be fulfilled, your families blessed, and your hearts filled with the knowledge that you are cherished and valued," he said.

As of 2021, there are about 1.83 million OFWs worldwide, according to the data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority in December last year.

Migrant Workers Day is celebrated every June 7 in commemoration of the signing into law of Republic Act 8042 or the Migrant Workers Act of 1995.

The law mandates the celebration of Migrant Workers Day in recognition of the valuable contributions of OFWs to the country. (MNS)

MANILA -- The government is doing its best to improve the business climate in the Philippines, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured a group of Filipino-Chinese business leaders on Wednesday.

During the oath-taking of the new set of officers of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), Marcos said his administration has already taken the necessary steps to address the issues on ease of doing business in the country.

"Cognizant of the concerns of the sector, we will continue to listen and exert efforts to improve business climate and foster ease and efficiency of doing business," Marcos said in a speech delivered during the oathtaking ceremony at Malacañan Palace in Manila.

"We have taken note of the issues that you have raised during our meeting last year and we have initiated many steps and adjustments to address those challenges," he added.

Marcos said the government is implementing strategic initiatives that would benefit the business sector, including the digitalization efforts and the improvement of tax administration and fiscal incentives system.

In October 2022, Marcos met with the FFCCCII to discuss goals and plans to usher the Philippine economy into the new normal.

Marcos said his administration would continue to preserve and strengthen its "reliable" and "mutually beneficial" partnership with the FFCCCII.

"We look forward to further deepening and strengthening that relationship through continuing dialogue and amicable approaches," he said.

Marcos said the FFCCCII is one of the "most important and trusted" partners of the government, acknowledging the federation's "highimpact" social civic projects in the country.

He expressed optimism that strengthened partnership for the economic revitalization would yield "greater benefits for businesses, our citizens and our country."

"Rest assured that this administration will continue to support this healthy relationship. It is not only a healthy relationship, it is one that we consider to be a necessary partnership, and I think it has been made clear that the policy of this administration is to have the critical partners in the transformation of our economy," Marcos said.

"May this partnership between the Philippine government and the Federation live on for decades to come. Let it remain to be the government’s dependable ally in the pursuit of our aspirations for a prosperous, inclusive and resilient society, and a more comfortable, secure life for us all," he added.

Marcos also urged the newly elected FFCCCII officers to sustain the federation's legacy.

"With your unquestionable and proven dedication, wisdom and professionalism, I am certain that we will have positive influencers and prime movers in our communities to ably guide or economy to greater heights," he said. (MNS) partners in trade, security

Look for “non-traditional” partners in the areas of trade and security and defense, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday told the recently-appointed Filipino ambassadors.

Marcos made the call in a meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila, stressing the need for the Philippines to cope with the changing times, given the current global situation amid the “pandemic economy.”

“After all the changes that have been imposed upon us, like the pandemic economy and the world situation, looking for what we sometimes referred to as nontraditional partners in trades, in any kind, in security and defense issues,” he said.

“All these things, we are always looking for partners,” Marcos added.

The Chief Executive reiterated that his foreign policy makes the Philippines neutral and independent.

“We do not subscribe to any notion of a bipolar world. We only side, of course, to the Philippines, not to the US, not to Beijing, not to Moscow. That’s very much being independent in what we do,” he said.

Marcos also told the diplomats that they could discuss with him opportunities that could help improve the priority sectors. He said he would listen to “promising” ideas for the realization of digital transformation and the development of agriculture, energy and infrastructure.

“Now, if there are opportunities that would come up, you should explore them and if they're promising enough, then we’ll take it up. We’ll try to see if something can come up. There’s no harm in trying and kung anuman ang mangyari (whatever may happen), at least we tried,” Marcos said.

“So let us keep looking at those areas. And also what I found many times, you go there and you talk about agri and something else comes up,” he added.

Present during the meeting were Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the United Nations Carlos Sorreta and Ambassadors Henry Bensurto Jr. (Turkey), Renato Pedro Villa (Saudi Arabia), Raul Hernandez (Oman), Paul Raymund Cortez (Portugal), Josel Ignacio (India) and Maria Angela Ponce (Malaysia).

The ambassadors secured the Commission on Appointments’ nod on May 31.

New appointment

Meantime, Marcos designated Brig. Gen. Freddie dela Cruz as the commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Special Operations Command (AFPSOCOM).

Dela Cruz’s appointment was announced by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) in a Facebook post.

AFPSOCOM functions as the AFP’s unified special operations command and is tasked to plan, conduct and support the special operations of the armed forces.

AFPSOCOM takes command and supervision of the Special Operations Wing of the Air Force, the Naval Special Operations Group from the Navy; the Army's Scout Ranger Regiment, the Army's Special Forces Regiment and Light Reaction Regiment; and the Joint Special

Operations Group of the AFP General Headquarters.

World Bank lifts PH economic growth projection to 6%

The World Bank on Wednesday revised upward its Philippine economic growth projection to 6 percent this year from 5.6 percent as strong domestic demand is expected to drive growth.

"Despite weak global conditions, we expect strong domestic demand to grow to 6 percent in 2023 and move to its growth potential over the medium term," World Bank senior economist Ralph Van Doorn said in a briefing for the Philippines Economic Update (PEU) report.

The World Bank's latest forecast falls within the government's 6 to 7 percent economic growth target for the year.

For 2024 and 2025, World Bank expects the Philippine economy to grow by 5.9 percent.

The report said the strong domestic demand this year is underpinned by consumer spending, drawing strength from the continuing jobs recovery and the steady flow of remittances.

Other drivers of growth include fixed capital investment as a result of upbeat domestic activity and improved business confidence.

The services sector is also expected to support growth while the recovery of international tourism will boost the expansion of transportation services, accommodation, and food services.

Aside from these, the amendments to the Public Service Act, Foreign Investment Act, and Retail Trade Liberalization law are expected to encourage private investment and strengthen growth in the country over the medium term.

However, World Bank country director for Brunei, Malaysia, Philippines, and Thailand Ndiame Diop pointed out that persistent global and domestic risks could hinder recovery and poverty reduction.

“It is essential to sustain improvements in social protection to help families, especially the poor and vulnerable, cope with economic difficulties as the country navigates the global slowdown, budget constraints, high prices of basic commodities, and climate-related risks,” he said.

Diop said ensuring efficient delivery of social protection programs will require speeding up current government reforms, including the adoption of the national identification (ID) system for social protection delivery, updating the targeting system for identifying poor and vulnerable families, innovations in digital payment systems and strengthening financing mechanisms and readiness for disaster response.

Global risks to the country’s economic outlook, meanwhile, include the possibility of rising global inflation, higher global interest rates, and an escalation of geopolitical tensions brought about by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine which could further cause a sharper-than-expected global slowdown that could hamper Philippine exports.

On the domestic front, World Bank said high inflation remains a risk to the economic outlook due to several factors including natural disasters affecting food supply, the threat of El Niño that could further constrain