Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has vowed to advance the welfare of the country’s migrant workers during his meeting with members of the Filipino community in United Kingdom last October 16 to 18. 

Go was in London together with Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri and Sen. Grace Poe where they represented the Philippine Senate during an official visit with parliament counterparts in the UK.

On October 19, after his official functions, Go was invited by overseas Filipino workers (OFW) groups who are members of the Filipino community in the UK to a meet-and-greet at the Romulo Café & Restaurant in London. 

The groups were comprised of Filipinos working and residing in London who came from various parts of the Philippines—Davao, Ilocos, Bicol, Iloilo , among others, including those from Filipino Muslim communities. 

Go also provided tokens to the OFW leaders present at the event saying he was glad to meet with them and ask about how he can help them. 

During the meeting, the lawmaker took the opportunity to highlight the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), a significant stride when it comes to addressing the concerns of OFWs.

"Gusto kong ibalita sa inyo na (I want to inform you that) as one of the authors and co-sponsors ng Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Act, mayroon na po kayong departamento na nakatutok po sa inyo (there is one department that will focus on your needs),” Go told the OFWs.

“Prayoridad ito ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte noong termino niya at naisabatas natin ito sa tulong ng aking mga kasamahan sa Senado at Kongreso, (Its creation was former president Rodrigo Duterte’s priority during his term and it was enacted into law, with the help of our colleagues in the Senate and House)," he shared.

The DMW law primarily streamlined the organization and functions of all government agencies related to overseas employment and migration.

Go also said he was able to raise some concerns of Filipino nurses particularly in terms of protecting their welfare, promoting their rights to proper benefits and compensation, as well as in ensuring a safe working environment for them in the UK during their meeting with UK lawmakers.

“Ako naman as chairman ng Committee on Health sa Senado, full support po ako sa ating mga medical frontliners,” Go said as he also commended Filipino medical frontliners in the UK, particularly nurses whom he lauded as among the finest globally. 

Go also highlighted Filipina-British Nurse May Parsons, who became known globally for administering the first COVID-19 vaccine, and was a recipient of the UK's George Cross Award. The senator had co-sponsored Senate Resolution No. 320 recognizing and commending Parson’s achievement.