RIYADH, 8 July 2004 — The OFW Congress in Riyadh will hold a meeting tomorrow to discuss various issues affecting Overseas Filipino Workers.
Alex Veloso-Bello, president of OFW Congress, said one of the issues to be discussed include the security situation in the Kingdom.
Bello said the continuing efforts of local authorities to bring back a peaceful environment has eased the worries of many expatriates, but each one still has to be vigilant at all times.
Another issue to be addressed is the role of OFWs in nation building under the newly installed government in the Philippines.
“The 65-percent voter turnout of absentee voters worldwide is already a significant contribution. We have already spoken when we cast our ballots. But our role does not end there. We also have to help build our economy by investing in the country,” Bello said.
Also to be taken up is the suggestion to push for the recognition of OFWs as a “special sector” as a means of strengthening the representation of migrant workers in the government policy-making boards.
A hot topic being discussed among overseas Filipinos via the Internet is the perception that OFWs are being seen as milking cows but taken for granted by policy makers in Manila when it comes to decision-making.
Bello said the OFW Congress will also discuss the situation of an active Filipino community leader who is ill and in need of assistance. Magdalena Perez, a 65-year-old OFW Congress member and president of Pinoy Friendly, had been diagnosed with cancer and she is longing to go home to see her loved ones.
“In her present condition, she needs help and comfort from the Filipino community leaders in Riyadh,” Bello said.