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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider OWWA chief to OFW relatives and friends: "OFWs are not banks, ATMs!"

OWWA chief to OFW relatives and friends: "OFWs are not banks, ATMs!"

Published Oct 17, 2022 02:06 pm

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has urged the families of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Philippines to refrain from treating their loved ones working abroad automated teller machines (ATMS) where they could withdraw cash anytime.

OWWA Administrator Arnell Ignacio appealed to OFW families to remind them how migrant workers sacrifices their happiness just to ensure the future of their loved ones in the Philippines.

"Panawagan ko sa mga pamilya ng OFW, 'yung inyo pong mahal sa buhay na nag-aabroad na kumikita (ng pera), eh hindi ho 'yan parang bangko na lagi na lang natin hinihingan ng pera doon para sa pangangailangan natin (I appeal to the families of OFWs, your loved ones abroad who earn (money), is not a bank that we always ask for money for our needs," said Ignacio.

Ignacio, who is also a former OFW before he entered show business, shared sentiments of OFWs being misunderstood by their loved ones.

"We should keep in our mind that work abroad is not easy as we are thinking," Ignacio prompted.

He also reminded OFW families to show compassion to their loved ones, instead of pestering them while working abroad.

"Unawain natin lagi na kapag iyan lagi na lang nating tinatawagan para sa pangangailangan, ang problema ay baka lalo siyang mapagod sa trabaho (Let's always understand that if we always call them for our needs, the problem is that they might be more tired at work," Ignacio added.

On the part of OWWA, Ignacio reiterated that they are doing all necessary precautions to make sure that OFWs are being taken care of.

He also urged all returning OFWs to avail the agency's reintegration program and livelihood aid platforms to help them to cope with the rising prices of commodities and services.

The official also provided inspirational messages to OFWs, especially to those experiencing difficulties in life.

Using one of the famous Japanese proverbs, "Nanakorobi, yaoki" which means "Fall down seven times, stand up eight", Ignacio told OFWs to be strong in all the troubles and untoward circumstances in life.

He added, "Choose to never give up hope, and to always strive for more."

"Huwag mawawalan ng pag-asa! Palaging piliin ang lumaban kahit ilang beses kamang matalo sa buhay. Kaya mo yan, Kabayan! (Don't lose hope! Always choose to fight no matter how many times you lose in life)," Ignacio ended.

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