Senatorial hopeful Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has strongly criticized proposals to strip overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) of their tax privileges, calling the move unfair and deeply unjust.
Pangilinan’s statement comes in the wake of proposals floated by allies of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who called for a “zero remittance week” in protest of his detention at The Hague. In response, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile warned of potential consequences, including a possible suspension of tax perks for OFWs.
“OFWs are not just workers—they are economic lifelines for our country,” Pangilinan said. “To punish them for speaking out is simply wrong.”
He stressed the importance of respecting OFWs’ right to free expression, urging the government to respond with “fairness and sensitivity” instead of retaliation.
“Their insights reflect the lived realities of millions of Filipinos abroad. We should listen—not threaten them,” he added, emphasizing the value of dialogue over intimidation.
Meanwhile, the Palace has distanced itself from the idea of filing charges against those supporting the remittance protest. Undersecretary Claire Castro clarified that Malacañang sees no basis for legal action at this time.
