In celebration of December as the Month of Overseas Filipinos (MOF), the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) was invited by the Province of Batangas to join the festivities in support of Batangueños in the diaspora. With a theme “Empowering Overseas Filipinos/OFWs Towards Sustainable Reintegration”, the event was graced by Batangas Governor Hermilando “Dodo” Mandanas and Vice Governor Jose Antonio “Mark” Leviste II.
Over 300 participants, representing the migration sector at the local level, including OFWs and their families and the Batangas Province Migrants Coordinating Council (BPMCC), attended the event.
On behalf of Secretary Dante “Klink” Ang II, Director Marita Del Rosario-Apattad of the Project Management Division delivered a keynote message, paying tribute to the sacrifices and contributions of over 10 million overseas Filipinos. She highlighted their vital role in supporting their families, driving national recovery, and contributing to the country’s development, underscoring the importance of sustainable reintegration initiatives. She highlighted the Commission’s distinct role among migrant-serving agencies, emphasizing its unique role in providing pre-departure services for emigrants and facilitating projects that will enable overseas Filipinos to remain connected to the Philippines. She also urged OFWs to transact only with accredited agencies to avoid scams and illegal recruitment.
The Provincial Government also honored the winners of the Go Earn Achieve Return-Uplift Philippines (GEAR UP) Award, an initiative that celebrates the contributions and achievements of OFWs who have successfully reintegrated into their communities.
The 11th celebration of the MOF in Batangas highlighted the province’s commitment to supporting OFWs and their families through various initiatives and programs. The event not only recognized the contributions of overseas Filipinos but also fostered discussions on enhancing their reintegration and ensuring their continued success in both personal and professional aspects of life.
Photo credits: Batangas PIO