President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., alongside First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos, hosted the ‘Pamaskong Handog Para sa Pamilyang Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)’ at Malacañan Palace in Manila on December 17, 2024. This festive Christmas gathering was organized to celebrate and honor the contributions of OFWs and their families.
During the event, President Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to bolstering the Philippines’ collaboration with host nations to ensure the protection and welfare of OFWs. He acknowledged the significant role these workers play in the nation’s economy and their sacrifices for their families’ futures.
Marcos emphasized the government’s efforts to enhance cooperation and maintain positive relations with various countries to safeguard Filipinos abroad. He highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the lives of OFWs and their families, such as scholarship programs for their children and livelihood support for returning migrants.
The President also mentioned recent developments, including the opening of the Bagong Pilipinas Cancer Care Center at the OFW Hospital in San Fernando, Pampanga, and the establishment of an OFW lounge at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.
Marcos stressed the government’s commitment to advocating for OFWs’ rights and addressing their needs through the Department of Migrant Workers, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and various government branches, including consulates and embassies worldwide.
He praised the talent, compassion, and dedication of OFWs, noting that their values have significantly enhanced the Philippines’ global reputation. Marcos also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of OFWs through their remittances, which he described as incomparable.
Approximately 500 OFWs and their families attended the annual event, which included the presentation of recognition certificates to several OFWs and the ceremonial handover of housing units under the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program to five OFW beneficiaries. Additionally, fifty beneficiaries received financial assistance under the Livelihood Program for OFW Reintegration to help them start small businesses upon returning home. Noche Buena packages and backpacks for the children of OFWs were also distributed during the celebration.