Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families who attended Go Negosyo’s Balik-Bayan Summit 2024 at SM Mall of Asia on December 7 went home with cash and prizes amounting to P3 million, courtesy of Go Negosyo, its partners, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and the Office of the First Lady.
The announcement was made by Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion, alongside First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, who conveyed the President’s contribution of P2 million to the prizes distributed during the event.
Among the beneficiaries were attendees who had queued as early as 6 p.m. the previous day, as well as all registered participants and walk-ins.
The summit, organized by Go Negosyo, offered OFWs and their families free onsite mentorship sessions with seasoned entrepreneurs, alongside discussions on business opportunities, financial literacy, and industry insights. Concepcion emphasized the importance of proper guidance in business, stating in a Phil Star report, “We don’t want you to spend your savings without proper mentorship. We are here to help you.”
Key officials present included Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cris Roque, Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, Commission on Filipinos Overseas chairman Dante “Klink” Ang, and Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano.
Cacdac highlighted the Department of Migrant Workers’ commitment to OFW reintegration through continuous learning, retooling, and upskilling programs, noting that over 2,000 individuals have already benefited from its economic reintegration initiatives.
The event also celebrated the 2024 Inspiring Balik-Bayan Awards, recognizing successful OFWs-turned-entrepreneurs for their contributions to the local economy. Forums covered topics like retirement planning, creating purpose-driven work, and business opportunities such as franchising and agripreneurship.
The Balik-Bayan Summit aims to empower OFWs and their families with entrepreneurial knowledge and resources, ensuring their hard-earned income leads to sustainable growth and success.
