OFW Party List Representative Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino recently celebrated the 3rd Anniversary of the Nueva Vizcaya OFW Association Inc., in Bayombang, Nueva Vizcaya, emphasizing the importance of supporting Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families for a better future.
“Ang inyo pong abang lingkod ay patuloy na humahanap at gumagawa ng batas upang maprotektahan at mabigyan halaga ang ambag ng mga OFWs sa ating bansa. I will make sure that I will carry and fight for the cause of OFWs,” Rep. Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino said.
During the event, attended by over 500 OFWs, former OFWs, and their families, Rep. Magsino highlighted her ongoing efforts to create and advocate for laws that protect and recognize the contributions of OFWs. She assured the community of her continued commitment to fighting for their rights.
Rep. Magsino shared updates on her legislative efforts, including the Magna Carta for Seafarers, which is awaiting the signature of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., having passed both houses of Congress. This bill aims to protect Filipino seafarers, ensuring their safety while navigating international waters located in European countries.
“Naghihintay po tayo ng pirma ng ating mahal na presidente para maisakatuparan ang adhikain nating ito”, Rep. Magsino added to the delight of the crowd as they clapped and hailed her report.
“The Philippines is the world’s leading supplier of seafarers, with over 600,000 Filipinos working in the Maritime Industry,” Rep. Magsino noted. “Records in 2022 showed over 400,000 Filipino seafarers deployed worldwide. They are crucial to the global economy, responsible for transporting over 90% of the world’s goods and fuels.” Rep. Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino said.
Nueva Vizcaya OFW Association, Inc. President Isabelita Abon expressed confidence in Rep. Magsino’s dedication to supporting OFWs and their families. Abon, a former OFW who worked in Qatar, praised Rep. Magsino for her empathy and support.
“We can see how kind-hearted Congresswoman Magsino is. She has been helping us since we formed this association. We need a leader like her,” Rep. Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino said.
The NV OFW Association Inc., with around 3,000 members, remains active in promoting the programs of the OFW Party List. The celebration included games, a dance contest, a seminar on mental health awareness, and a livelihood workshop. Rep. Magsino even participated in the dance presentations, showcasing her rapport with the community.
Former Nueva Vizcaya Governor Ruth Padilla, Board Members Elma Lejano, Patricio Dumlao, and Roland Carub were among the distinguished guests at the event.
Rep. Magsino concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity among OFWs, both active and retired, in supporting each other and contributing ideas to further the advocacy of the OFW Party List.
“An occasion like this helps our OFWs, even those who are retired, to continue helping one another. Sa OFW Party List, ang mga OFW talaga ang bida,” she said.
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