The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People will pay tribute to overseas Filipino Workers on Sept. 26, National Migrants Sunday.
Balanga Bishop Ruperto C. Santos, vice chairman of the commission said the Church is paying tribute to our migrant workers on Sunday for all their sacrifices and hard work in order to provide for their families and loved ones.
“As we celebrate National Migrants Sunday (NMS), it is an opportune time to appreciate the sacrifices and services of our OFWs. They support their families through their sacrifices as they strive to ensure the future of their children,” Santos said over Radio Veritas.
The Church leader, likewise, highlighted the important part played by OFWs in supporting the country’s economy. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipnas said, remittances sent by Filipino migrant workers reached more than 2 billion dollars during the first quarter of the year which is 13 percent higher compared to last year.
“They help keep our economy moving. At the same time, our OFWs are the best examples of the true character of Filipinos – helpful, honest, and hardworking,” Santos added.
The nation will observe the 35th National Migrants Sunday on Sept. 26 to coincide with the 107th World Day of Migrants and Refugees. Several dioceses in different parts of the country are set to hold programs in honor of migrants and OFWs.
Bishop Santos called on the faithful to “pray for the more than 10 million overseas Filipino workers working in different countries around the world. Let us accompany them in their struggles for the promotion of their rights and dignity as well as for their safety amid the pandemic.”