The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Makati Chapter, in collaboration with the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, the Migrant Workers Office Dubai, and the Filipino Social Club (FilSoc), conducted a free legal consultation for Filipino Overseas Workers (OFWs) last Saturday at the Luzon Hall of the Migrant Workers Office in Dubai.
Running from 9:00 AM to 12:00 NN, the event provided over 40 OFWs with direct access to legal experts on Philippine laws, focusing on family law, labor rights, and property disputes. Volunteer lawyers from the IBP Makati Chapter flew in from the Philippines to offer their services.
Atty. Stanley Mari B. Fabito, President of the IBP Makati Chapter, emphasized the importance of such initiatives. “It was our honor to serve the Filipino community here in Dubai. Not everyone has the financial means or easy access to legal advice on concerns and cases regarding Philippine laws. This is part of our commitment to help our kababayans as part of our social responsibility,” he said.
The project, previously launched in Hong Kong, marked its Dubai debut this year. Atty. Fabito expressed hopes of making the program an annual event, stating, “With our goal of expanding to other countries with large OFW communities, we are committed to ensuring that every Filipino has access to the legal guidance they deserve.”
Labor Attaché Atty. John Rio Bautista of the Migrant Workers Office in Dubai praised the initiative, noting its impact on OFWs. “Events like these provide clarity and guidance to our kababayans who often face challenges navigating Philippine legal systems,” he said.
Attendees shared their gratitude for the program. One participant, Ms. Rose, remarked, “This consultation answered questions I’ve been struggling with for years. I’m thankful for this chance and I hope more events like this happen in the future.”
Ericson Reyes, President of the Filipino Social Club, highlighted the collaborative effort’s success. “Today’s event shows what we can achieve when we work together to support our kababayans. We hope to see more partnerships like this in the future,” he said.
Looking ahead, the IBP Makati Chapter plans to establish an online referral system in collaboration with the Migrant Workers Office. The platform aims to assist OFWs in need of legal advice and connect them with institutions equipped to address their concerns.
