Manila: The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations on Wednesday opened its organizational meeting and initial hearing by taking up the agreement between the Philippine government and the Board of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage. Committee chair Senator Imee Marcos emphasized the panel’s broad jurisdiction, covering the country’s relations with other nations, ASEAN and UN engagement, multilateral organizations, international agreements, and the welfare of overseas Filipinos. She affirmed that Senate rules and procedures would govern all committee proceedings.

According to Philippines News Agency, Senator Erwin Tulfo called on the government to prioritize the protection of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), particularly in Taiwan and parts of China, amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea. He also urged stronger support for fisherfolk in Palawan and nearby provinces who continue to face harassment in contested waters. Tulfo emphasized the importance of maintaining Philippine sovereignty without compromising the nation’s dignity.

The Department of Foreign Affairs reports there are an estimated 10.8 million overseas Filipinos worldwide as of the end of 2024, with the largest populations residing in the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, and the Middle East. Of this number, 3.7 million are documented migrant workers while 1.1 million are considered irregular or undocumented. Senator Marcos highlighted the committee’s dual priorities of advancing international cooperation on environmental challenges while safeguarding the welfare of Filipinos overseas.

Deputy Minority Leader Loren Legarda, vice chairperson and principal author of Republic Act 12019 or the ‘Loss and Damage Fund Board Act,’ stressed the need for international agreements to translate into community safety and resilience. She urged that efforts in foreign relations should directly impact community safety, livelihood security, and national resilience.

Legarda also addressed the Regional Foresight Conference on Emerging International Issues in Para±aque City, urging Southeast Asian nations to enhance foresight and preparedness against climate change and other regional security concerns. She cited the Philippines’ leadership in climate diplomacy, referencing the Manila Call to Action on Climate Change and collaborations with global leaders in advancing climate adaptation strategies.