MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. extended his gratitude to the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Germany for their unwavering support as they contributed to the government’s efforts to secure foreign investments through their invaluable work.
In his speech before the Filipino Community in Berlin, President Marcos recognized the contributions of the OFWs to the Philippine economy over the years, calling them as the “Bagong Bayani” of the “Bagong Pilipinas.”
President Marcos attributed OFWs’ contributions to the record-breaking USD 33.5 billion in remittances in 2023 as one of the main drivers to the country’s 5.6 percent economic growth last year.
“You are the envoys, para kayong mga ambassador lahat ng ating kultura. You exemplify the values of family, faith, honesty, hard work, compassion, and solidarity wherever you go,” President Marcos told the Filipino community gathering.
“Your presence in host countries fosters, hindi lamang dito sa Germany kundi lahat ng ating mga kababayan na nagtatrabaho sa iba’t-ibang bansa at – the host countries foster goodwill and understanding. It strengthens the bonds between our two nations. It enriches the global community,” he added.
President Marcos also underscored the contributions of overseas Filipinos extend far beyond remittances.
With this, the chief executive vowed before the Filipino community to continue working hard and persevere to support the growth of the economy and match their contributions by reforms and programs through the “Bagong Pilipinas” agenda.
“Ginagawa ninyong madali ang trabaho namin sa pamahalaan. Nagiging madali ang trabaho namin dahil hindi na kami kailangang magpaliwanag, na magsabi dito sa Pilipinas… hindi alam na namin ‘yan. Oh ayan, mahusay ‘yan, hindi— may karanasan kami,” he said.
“Under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda, we will witness a transformational period of growth, progress, and reform. This government is committed to good governance, economic stability, inclusive development. Ito po ay para sa inyo, isang Bagong Pilipinas na puno ng kaunlaran at pagkakataon,” he added.
President Marcos also urged the migrant Filipinos in Germany to continue supporting each other and harness the strength of collective spirit in overcoming challenges as well as seizing opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Marcos urged the “Bagong Pilipino” to work together for a united “Bagong Pilipinas” that is welcoming to all Filipinos wherever they are in the world. (PND)
