President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has assured overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Cambodia that their welfare remains a top priority, pledging stronger protections and deeper cooperation between Manila and Phnom Penh.
Addressing hundreds of Filipinos at a community gathering in Phnom Penh on Sunday, the President revealed that the Department of Migrant Workers will soon establish a Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in the Cambodian capital.
“This will be done at the soonest possible time to complement the work of our embassy in promoting your welfare and defending your rights,” Marcos said.
He praised the contributions of OFWs in shaping how the world perceives the Philippines, highlighting their integrity and generosity. “The world has a very good view of the Philippines because of you, who bring honor to being Filipino,” he told the audience.
The President, joined by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and members of his Cabinet, also emphasized that stronger ties with Cambodia will open more economic opportunities. His state visit, made at the invitation of King Norodom Sihamoni, is expected to produce new agreements on education, air connectivity, and combating transnational crime—on top of existing partnerships covering finance, trade, agriculture, cultural property, tourism, and information technology.
Marcos also encouraged Cambodian businesses to invest in the Philippines, noting that cooperation between the two nations would yield benefits for both sides.
“Expect that we will always strive to uplift the lives of every Filipino so that a stable, prosperous, and peaceful New Philippines will greet you upon your return,” he said.
