WASHINGTON, D.C.—Filipinos in the United States have been acknowledged by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. as "valued members" of American society.
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. meets with the Filipino community in Washington D.C. on Monday, May 1, 2023. (KJ Rosales/PPA POOL)
During his meeting with the Filipino community here on Monday, May 1, Marcos once again highlighted the contribution of Filipinos in various fields abroad, saying "kinuha na natin lahat (we've got it all).
He told them that they were among the foundations that strengthens the Philippines' relationship with the US.
"You are valued members now of American society. Your success here has made us very, very proud back home," Marcos said.
"I take pride in being your elected President, but more than anything I am honored to stand among you and say: Pilipino ako (I am a Filipino),” Marcos added.
With this, the President has told them that they can expect support and help from the government as a gesture of gratitude for their sacrifices for their families and the country.
'Visit the Philippines'
In his speech, Marcos also called on Filipino-Americans to encourage their children and grandchildren to visit the Philippines to see the richness of Philippine culture and history.
"Let them see for themselves what the Philippines is about, what is our culture, what is our history. I’m sure the first and second and third generation Filipino-Americans are more than happy to learn about their proud Philippine ancestry. Sooner or later, we will be able to welcome you back home to the Philippines, especially those who have reacquired their Filipino citizenship,” he said.
He also reassured overseas Filipino workers of the government’s sustained efforts to make the Philippines better and vowed to boost the quality of jobs so that time will come when Filipinos would no longer have to go abroad out of necessity.
The meeting with the Filipino community was held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel here.