As calls for a Zero Remittance Week gain traction online, Malacañang reassured overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) that the government is not their adversary and urged them to verify information before taking drastic action.

“Their families will go hungry,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said in Filipino, citing comments from OFWs who refused to join the protest, fearing its impact on their families in the Philippines.

While the government has not received official reports of any group inciting OFWs to participate, Castro acknowledged that certain supporters may be behind the movement but reiterated that the administration remains a partner to Filipino workers abroad.

“The government is not your enemy. We are your allies,” she said, urging OFWs to be vigilant against fake news and not be swayed by political agendas that could hurt their families.

Economic impact

On whether the government would take legal action against those encouraging OFWs to withhold remittances, Castro said inciting to sedition could apply, as such actions may be seen as an attempt to “destabilize the administration and harm the country’s economy.” However, she clarified that no cases have been filed at this point.

Asked whether the Palace has assessed the economic implications of a remittance strike, Castro admitted that no formal studies have been made but downplayed its likelihood.

“What we know is that OFWs will make their own decisions,” she said, stressing that many Filipino workers abroad are unlikely to participate, as they prioritize their families’ well-being over political protests.

Tax privileges at risk?

Presidential Chief Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile earlier reminded OFWs that they enjoy tax-free status and hinted that government policies could change in response to their actions.

While Castro clarified that the government has no plans to revoke OFW tax privileges, she reiterated that the administration supports OFWs, not opposes them.

“JPE is simply pointing out what OFWs can receive from the government. We will not suppress their right to decide whether or not to send remittances.”

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has already been briefed on the issue, according to Castro. She also stressed that no legal action is currently being taken, as the government trusts OFWs to make informed decisions.