PRRD banks on OFWs as gov’t partners

FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte (PCOO photo)

MANILA — President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Dec. 5 expressed confidence that he can count on overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to be partners of government in providing a comfortable life to Filipinos.

“I am confident that you will remain steadfast partners of government in promoting the Filipino’s greatness in the international community,” the Chief Executive said in his speech as he graced the 2017 Model OFW Family of the Year Awards held at Malacañan Palace.

He urged OFWs to work hand in hand with the government in the endeavor to provide a more prosperous and comfortable life for their family and for the future generations of Filipinos.

“By working together, we shall build a Philippines where opportunities abound and citizens are empowered to realize their aspirations,” he said.

During his speech, the President also discussed the measures he implemented to improve the plight of Filipinos working abroad.

“Well, of course ngayon, the first thing that I really did was to order o hintuin itong tanim bala. Let’s start with this, small things,” he said, referring to the alleged bullet-planting scheme in airports.

President Duterte said he also prohibited the Bureau of Customs and the Bureau of Immigration “from tinkering into your things.

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“I hope pag-uwi ninyo ngayon wala na ‘yung abli-abli na kung ano-ano ang kukunin nila,” he said.

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration created the Model OFW of the Year awards in 2003 to recognize the invaluable contribution of OFWs and the unparalleled support of their families in pursuit of a better life.

Help for Filipino fighters vowed

Meanwhile, International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior bantamweight champion Jerwin Ancajas paid a courtesy call on President Duterte after the awarding ceremony.

Ancajas had a dominant performance against Jamie Conlan of Northern Ireland on November 18.

During the meeting, President Duterte threw his full support to Ancajas and other Filipino boxers who have been fighting for the country.

The Chief Executive promised to help Filipino fighters in any way he can.