The Villar family welcomed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families at the Villar Sipag Center in Las Piñas for an OFW and Family Summit, featuring discussions on support, welfare, and financial literacy.

Former Senate President Manny Villar and Senator Camille Villar recounted the origins of their family’s long-standing support for OFWs in their welcome remarks.

“Fifty years ago, my parents started Camella Homes… and the very first house sold was to a seaman. That’s when it all started,” Senator Villar said.

The elder Villar echoed this, sharing a foundational memory.

“When I began in housing, I had two buyers — a seaman’s wife and a supervisor. This is something I will never forget, and I owe it to our countrymen who are working abroad,” Manny said.

Meantime, the lady senator stressed her continued commitment to championing OFW welfare in the Senate as she highlighted key initiatives, including the proposed Remittance Protection Bill, which seeks to lower fees for money transfers.

She also mentioned plans for financial literacy programs, strengthened healthcare services, and a reintegration employment bill to support OFWs returning to the Philippines.

The summit featured a day of talks, with early sessions led by government agency speakers focusing on the critical issue of preventing human trafficking.