Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has reiterated his strong support for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) during the Senate plenary deliberations on the proposed 2025 national budget.

Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Sports, urged the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and its attached agencies, including the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), to maintain a 24/7 hotline to provide immediate assistance to Filipinos working abroad.

“Your agencies have been an instrumental force in safeguarding the rights and welfare of our OFWs,” Go said, addressing DMW and OWWA officials. “I laud the efforts of your agencies, and I also acknowledge the major accomplishments that you have achieved under your respective tenures.”

The senator also thanked Senator Joel Villanueva, the principal sponsor of the law creating the DMW, for his efforts in establishing the department.

Go stressed the importance of the DMW in protecting OFWs, especially after the challenges they faced before the department’s creation and also highlighted the need for efficient use of government funds allocated for OFW programs and services.

The lawmaker also underscored the importance of the OFW Hospital in Pampanga, which he said provides essential healthcare services to OFWs and their families. He urged the government to ensure adequate funding for the hospital.

Go also reiterated his call for the DMW to maintain a 24/7 hotline and to ensure that its offices are always accessible to OFWs in need.

“It’s hard to be away from family, so please, let’s meet their needs and their office will be open for all of you,” Go said.