This is with reference to the report, “Duterte sends SR40m aid to OFWs stuck at Saudi Oger” (July 23). The Philippine government under the newly-elected President Rodrigo Duterte heeded the cries of the overseas Filipino workers of Saudi Oger who were facing serious problems due to non-payment of salaries. The government’s action clearly indicates that it is serious about fulfilling its commitments toward expatriates, who are a major source of foreign exchange and a huge asset for the country.
The government’s kind gesture warms every Filipino worker’s heart: “We’re in this together — that everything will sort itself and that the burden will lighten however hard crisis hits.”
More than the financial assistance, the presence of the government’s elite team during trying times brings in a great gift that allows every Filipino worker to bear the suffering without losing hope.
The statistics site of Philippine hiring management for overseas countries said that Filipino workers’ remittances increased to $2.42 billion during March 2015 compared to $2.39 billion during the same period a year before. Keeping in mind the rich contribution of expatriate workers, the Philippine government must always strive to help them in tough times. This will definitely encourage more and more Filipinos to work abroad and contribute to the nation.
Besides, it is humanitarian demand to stand by fellow countrymen when they are in a crisis situation.
Kind gesture
