Tokyo: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. pledged continued support for the promotion of the rights and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Japan, acknowledging their key role in strengthening Philippine-Japan relations. Speaking before the Filipino community in Tokyo, Marcos expressed gratitude for Filipinos in Japan, describing them as the 'face of the Philippines' and a symbol of resilience and quiet strength.
According to Philippines News Agency, Filipino workers in Japan, employed in factories, offices, schools, hotels, hospitals, restaurants, and construction sites, serve as a key link in deepening people-to-people ties and expanding cooperation between the two countries in various fields. Marcos emphasized the importance of meeting the Filipino community before engaging with Japanese leaders, underscoring the significance of their contributions to the bilateral relationship.
The President highlighted his four-day state visit to Japan, aimed at enhancing bilateral relations in key areas such as labor protection, trade and commerce, defense, and regional cooperation. He noted the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan as a milestone in their long-standing partnership.
Marcos addressed the impact of global crises, including rising oil prices due to the Middle East conflict, and cited government interventions such as a state of national energy emergency and the Unified Package for Livelihood, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) program. Despite global challenges, cooperation between the Philippines and Japan remains strong, with efforts to mitigate the impact of the Middle East crisis.
Despite these developments, Marcos made time to meet with the Filipino community in Japan, praising their vibrant spirit and camaraderie. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting the rights, welfare, and safety of Filipinos working and residing in Japan and recognized the contributions of long-time Filipino residents in strengthening ties between the two countries.
Filipino migrants, now numbering around 350,000 in Japan, have helped shape communities across the country. Marcos expressed confidence that Filipinos in Japan will continue to excel in their respective fields while contributing positively to their communities. He encouraged young Filipinos to maximize opportunities while maintaining pride in their heritage, advocating for integration without losing one's identity.
Marcos emphasized that living in Japan requires a balance of respecting local laws and embracing culture while retaining one's unique Filipino identity. He urged Filipinos to let their heritage enrich their social environment and spheres of influence.
