President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. vowed to continue pursuing better working conditions for overseas Filipino workers (OFW) in recognition of their valuable contributions worldwide.
In a short video message on the commemoration of Migrant Workers Day posted in his Facebook page, the President said his administration will strengthen its ties with the host countries of OFWs to ensure their safety, welfare and well-being.
“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.
“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,” he added.
Based on its latest data, the Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA) said there were an estimated 1.83 million OFWs in 2021. Of these, 1.76 million have existing work contracts, while the other 70,000 OFWs have no working visa or work permits.
The top destinations for OFWs were the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Singapore, and Qatar.
PSA noted the estimated total remittances sent by OFWs from April to September 2021 reached P151.33 billion.