A forum on Migration and Development, and Reintegration for Negros Occidental OFWs was held at the Provincial Capitol, today, jointly organized by the Provincial Government and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The event, attended by OFWs associations from the different LGUs, aims to address the numerous issues concerning migration and enhance government interventions.
Governor Lacson said that the pandemic worsened the issues and problems of migration, causing the displacement of thousands of Filipino migrant workers all over the world, and that there is a need to create more economic opportunities in the country. “We shall not waiver in our efforts to boost the positive, and reduce the negative effects of labor migration, and to protect our fellow Negrenses who leave in the hope of finding a better future for their families in lands not their own,” said the governor.
He added that the effective collaboration between the national government, LGUs, non-government organizations (NGOs) and other stakeholders is necessary to successfully address the multi-faceted concerns of the Filipino migrant workers.
The families of OFWs who died due to COVID-19 in countries where they used to work, and the beneficiaries of the Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay were also so given financial assistance, as part of the day’s activity.Gov. Lacson received a Plaque of Recognition from OWWA Region 6 in recognition of the invaluable repatriation and reintegration services to the OFWs in Western Visayas during the height of COVID-19 pandemic, given by Rizza Joy Moldes, OWWA Region VI OIC.He also received a token from the Federation of OFW – Negros Occidental, appreciating his effort of helping the Negrense OFWs.The PCMD officers, with Gov. Lacson as chairman, also had their pledge of commitment, followed by the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between the Provincial Government, OFW Negros Occ. Federation, Inc., and Center for Migrant Advocacy Philippines, Inc. for the establishment of a migrant center at the provincial level that aims to address the need for better migration assistance and governance.
Also present in the activity were Board Members Ryan Gamboa and Andrew Montelibano, Negros Occidental Provincial Administrator, Atty. Rayfrando Diaz, Executive Assistant to the Governor and PCMD Secretary, Marie June Castro, and OFWNOFI president, Sally Barrios, among others.The activity is themed, “Pamilya sang mga OFW, Naga-isa Para sa Katin-aran”.
