Balanga Bishop and Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines-Bishop Promoter of Stella Maris Philippines Ruperto C. Santos has released a Pastoral Letter that aims to guide migrant workers and seafarers in their choice of candidates in the May 9 elections.
“As your bishop along with your chaplains, we would like to share with you some vital points and analysis when you vote in the May 9 elections considering your situation as our beloved OFWs and seafarers,” part of his letter read.
“Please consider these four P’s: Employment Program (Programa sa trabaho) , Caring for life and for your loved ones left behind (Pangangalaga sa buhay at sa inyong mga mahal sa buhay na naiwan), Respect for you and your human rights (Paggalang sa inyo at sa inyong karapatang pangtao), and Punishing those who deceive, abuse and harm you (Pagpaparusa sa mga nanglilinlang, umabuso at nagpahamak sa inyo),” Bishop Santos said.
“First. It is imperative to those who ask for your vote to have a reliable, effective and a solid program on how to have a secure, stable and dignified job here in our country. That way, you will not be forced to go to another country because there are no employment opportunities here,” he said in his letter.
“Second. It is fitting that those you vote for will defend you against erroneous perceptions and unjust treatment, against pretentious reception and false accusations. We need someone who has a strong conviction against the violation of humane treatment or breach of the agreed contract, someone who will take care of you and will not forsake you, someone who will protect and not abandon you,” the Church leader stressed.
“Third. Those you elect should acknowledge you with respect, concern and sincere gratitude for all that you have done and been through. You were created with innate goodness and importance. You are not to be treated as mere statistics or tools of profit and remittances. You are not to be regarded as a burden to them. They should look after you with respect for your rights and the fruits of your labor; just like your balikbayan boxes, deserving to be cared for and appreciated. Respecting your human rights means providing prompt assistance in times of your hardship, need, and especially on the mat of illness or the brink of death,” said Bishop Santos.
“Finally. It is only right that those who want our votes will enforce laws to punish those who have harmed, abused and deceived you. You should also be given justice against those in authority or in the government who did not help or sympathize with you, those who made your life difficult or took advantage of your humble condition and weaknesses. Be cognizant that those who make and enact the laws will not make your life difficult and pitiful. You are not to be taken advantage of or left behind. Those we install should be men and women of good intention and good will, prioritizing others before themselves. They must be consistently prepared to give considerable time and energy in promoting our good welfare instead of their personal convenience or that of their clan. They should act on your repatriation, provide equal employment, and not promote our nation as a country that is reputable for manpower export,” he said.
Bishop Santos acknowledged the sacrifices and patience of all migrant workers and seafarers. He assured them of his constant prayers and support and he invoked God’s mercy that they will all “be strong, and healthy, that your work will be orderly and peaceful and that you return home safely.”