A celebration of homegrown enterprise took center stage at the Mall of Asia Music Hall as nine former overseas workers were recognized during the 2025 GONegosyo Balikbayan Awards. The program highlighted Filipinos who established and expanded businesses after their overseas employment, with national leaders present to underline support for returning entrepreneurs.
First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and GONegosyo Chair Joey Concepcion presented the awards, directing attention to the rise of OFW-led ventures across the country. Their participation placed a national spotlight on the evolving role of returning migrant workers in local development.
Three of the honorees came from Buy Lokal, By OFW, an initiative of the Department of Migrant Workers designed to help reintegrate Filipinos after working abroad. One of them, Grace Valencia of Batangas, shifted from teaching in China to producing handcrafted bags made from local materials. Melvin Awid, who once worked at sea and became a Likhang Marino 2025 finalist, now cultivates high-quality vanilla in Sarangani. From Cebu, Rambie Go moved from an office position in the UAE to developing a fashion and lifestyle brand that promotes Filipino artistry.
Their recognition at the event underscored how returning workers channel overseas skills and savings into ventures that generate jobs, introduce new products, and strengthen community livelihood. The Department of Migrant Workers pointed to their achievements as proof of how reintegration initiatives can help Filipinos build businesses at home and contribute to inclusive economic growth.
