The government’s newest initiatives for Filipinos working overseas took center stage at this year’s Bagong Bayani Awards in Malacañang, where President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized that the country’s modern migration policies are being rebuilt around protection, digital access, and support for returning workers.
Opening his remarks, Marcos linked the nation’s progress to the sacrifices of Filipinos abroad, describing them as “the strength and light” of the country. He stressed that the administration is determined to match that devotion with concrete services at home and abroad. “Kaya bilang suporta, asahan ninyo na nandito lang ang inyong pamahalaan,” he told the awardees and their families.
The President pointed to the Department of Migrant Workers’ ongoing reforms as a central pillar of this commitment. “Through the Department of Migrant Workers, we shall continue to elevate protection, streamline services, and ensure that every OFW is treated as the hero that they are,” he said.
A major focus of this year’s address was the shift toward digital solutions. Marcos cited the rollout of systems such as the OFW Travel Pass on the eGovPH App and the Online Employment Contract Verification System, designed to simplify transactions that have long required in-person processing. He also noted that the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration has already distributed around 300,000 electronic cards to allow faster access to benefits.
Complementing these upgrades, health and welfare programs—specifically the OFW Hospital and OWWA Botika—were reaffirmed as ongoing priorities. The AKSYON Fund, which provides emergency medical, financial and legal aid, was also highlighted as an essential safety net for Filipinos abroad.
At the airport, OFW Lounges established at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport aim to offer “comfort and dignity for every OFW traveler,” Marcos said. Reintegration support was another theme of his speech, with the President noting that returning workers can expect continued assistance through start-up financing, livelihood programs and financial literacy training.
“Lahat ng ito ay upang masiguro na hindi masasayang ang inyong pinaghirapan at maging matagumpay ang inyong pag-uwi,” he added.
The ceremony, which began in 1983 under Letter of Instruction 1320 issued by the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., continues to honor Filipinos overseas who demonstrate extraordinary service, compassion, professionalism and courage. This year’s honorees included workers recognized for contributions in employment, culture and the arts, community initiatives and reintegration, as well as individuals involved in lifesaving acts—among them a Filipino ship crew that rescued 52 migrants near Crete, Greece, and a caregiver who shielded her employer during the 2023 attacks in southern Israel.
