President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday called on overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to take an active role in building a stronger and more united Philippines, bringing to mind the sacrifices of the Philippine Revolution heroes who fought for the country’s independence.
Speaking before the Filipino community in Osaka, Japan, President Marcos underscored the vital contributions of OFWs in national development and urged them to be part of the government’s vision for a Bagong Pilipinas — a reformed, hopeful, and forward-looking nation.
“I call on every Filipino gathered here tonight: As our forefathers, the heroes of the Philippine Revolution, have sacrificed much to give us this freedom that we today enjoy, it is our duty to honor that hard-won gift,” the President declared, drawing parallels between the courage of today’s migrant workers and that of Filipinos who fought for the country’s freedom.
“Tungkulin natin bumuo ng isang kinabukasang karapat-dapat sa ating lahat. Isang bayang pinapanday sa tapang, pag-asa, at pagmamahal – ang isang Bagong Pilipinas,” added the President.
President Marcos reminded the audience that the freedoms and opportunities the nation now enjoys were earned through the sacrifices of those who came before.
The President said it is now the responsibility of every Filipino at home and abroad to honor that legacy by contributing to the country’s progress.
“Bilang inyong Pangulo, hangad kong mabigyan ang bawat Pilipino ng mas magandang buhay at mas maraming oportunidad. Naniniwala ako na ang tunay na pag-unlad ay nasusukat sa kakayanan ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino na mabuhay ng buo at maginhawa kasama ang kanilang mahal sa buhay sa sariling bayan,” President Marcos said.
President Marcos assured the overseas Filipino community that his administration is working hard to create an environment where Filipinos can thrive in their homeland.
The President also acknowledged the hardships faced by OFWs who are separated from their families and familiar surroundings to provide for their loved ones.
President Marcos emphasized that their sacrifices fuel the nation’s economy and uplift countless communities across the country. I PND
