In recognition of the vital role that Philippine migrant workers play in our economy and society, National Migrant Workers Day is celebrated every year on June 7. This day provides an opportunity to learn about the rights and challenges faced by migrant workers, and to take action to support this important community.
Also Read: Department of Migrant Workers (DMW)
On this day, we also celebrate the many contributions that Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) workers make to our country. We are grateful for their contributions, and we stand with them in their fight for fair treatment and dignified working conditions.
Happy National Migrant Workers’ Day to our fellow OFWs anywhere in the world. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration joins hands in celebrating the excellence and sacrifice of our Filipino heroes.
Let’s continue to be proud and show the hard work and service of the real Filipino brand because “Kabayan, sa galing and sacrifice mo, the world has risen.”
Who are the Filipino Migrant Workers?
Filipino migrant workers are people who leave their homes in the Philippines to find work in other countries. They often work long hours for minimal pay, and they often face difficult and dangerous conditions. In many cases, they are unable to return home to see their families because they cannot afford the cost of travel.
Migrant workers make an important contribution to the Philippine economy. They send money home to their families, which helps to support the local economy. In 2017, OFWs remitted more than $26 billion to the Philippines.
The Philippine government recognizes the important role that migrant workers play in the economy, and it has put in place policies and programs to support them. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration provides financial assistance and other services to migrant workers, and the Department of Labor and Employment works to protect their rights.
When is the National Migrant Worker’s Day?
National Migrant Worker’s Day is celebrated every year on June 7th. This day provides an opportunity to learn about the rights and challenges faced by migrant workers, and to take action to support this important community.
On this Migrant Workers’ Day, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and its 94 embassies, consulates general, and permanent missions all around the globe pay homage to our overseas Filipino workers. The DFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the rights and wellbeing of Filipino migrant workers, no matter where they are.
What are some of the issues faced by migrant workers?
Migrant workers often face exploitation and abuse by their employers. They may be paid lower wages than local workers, required to work excessive hours, and denied basic rights and protections. Migrant workers may also be vulnerable to discrimination and xenophobia. In some cases, they may be detained or deported if their immigration status is irregular.
Many migrant workers are also unable to access essential services, such as healthcare, education, and social security. This can result in poorer health outcomes, educational attainment, and economic security for migrants and their families.
There are a number of reasons why migrant workers may be more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. They may be unaware of their rights, or fear retaliation if they speak out. They may also lack the social and economic support networks that would allow them to stand up for their rights.
What is the National Migrant Worker’s Day?
Every year, on the seventh of June, Republic Act No. 8042 or the Migrant Workers Act (as amended by RA 10022) is enacted to commemorate the day when it was signed into law in 1995. It aims to improve the well-being of OFWs, their families, and Filipinos in distress through this legislation.
National Migrant Worker’s Day is a day to recognize the contributions of migrant workers, and to raise awareness of the challenges they face.
People all over the world have been watching and appreciating the significant services provided by our international workers, our modern-day heroes!
Department of Migrant Workers Celebrates Migrant Workers Day
The Department of Migrant Workers office shares a post celebrating OFW migrant workers. In a recent Facebook post from the official FB page, they shared details about the value of OFWs. Check out their post below:
Video: OFW National Day – Filipinos Caring for the World Tribute
Check out this video tribute to Overseas Filipino Workers during this OFW National Day of Migrant Workers:
Summary
National Migrant Worker’s Day is an important day to recognize the contributions of migrant workers and to raise awareness of the challenges they face. Migrant workers play a vital role in our economy, and many of them face exploitation and abuse.
The government has put in place policies and programs to support migrant workers, but more needs to be done. We must stand with migrant workers in their fight for fair treatment and dignified working conditions.