The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI) offered prayers for the 49 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Saudi Arabia whose remains were brought home Friday.
"We, at the CBCP-ECMI, on this day of July 10 as they arrive home, offer live streaming funeral blessings and prayers here in the Cathedral-Shrine of St. Joseph in Balanga for the eternal repose of their souls," ECMI vice chairman Bishop Ruperto Santos said in a statement.
"They are now home with our almighty God," he added.
The 49 OFWs died of COVID-19 and natural causes.
The Balanga, Bataan prelate also prayed for the families of the OFWs who had to endure the “sad and sorrowful" homecoming of their loved ones.
"We extend our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to their bereaved families, invoking our almighty God for their continued strength and unwavering faith in Him," Santos said.
The International Catholic Migration Commission Asia Working Group coordinator paid tribute to the fallen modern day heroes, saying they did not die in vain.
"They did not die in vain. It is because they dedicated and devoted their lives for the betterment and brighter future of their loved ones; and for what is economically best and beneficial to our country," said Santos.
He said their legacy of sacrificial love must live on.
Santos asked everyone to pray for the safety and well being of OFWs all over the world.
"Let us always pray for our OFW's that they remain safe and strong. And we work together to keep them well protected and their rights promoted," said Santos.
The government will repatriate another batch of dead OFWs on Tuesday. There are a total of 274 deceased OFWs in Saudi Arabia.