President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday vowed to strengthen government protection and services for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), reiterating his administration’s commitment to treat migrant workers as “heroes” during the 2025 Bagong Bayani Awards ceremony in Malacañan Palace.

In his speech, Marcos praised this year’s awardees for exemplifying skill, hard work, and compassion while working abroad. 

He said their achievements reflect the values envisioned when the Bagong Bayani Awards were created in 1983 through a directive signed by his father, former president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr.

“We still see the immense value that migrant workers have brought to their families and to our country,” the President said. 

“Through the Department of Migrant Workers, we shall continue to elevate protection, streamline services, and ensure that every OFW is treated as the hero that they are.”

Marcos highlighted ongoing government initiatives, including the digitization of migration-related processes such as the OFW Travel Pass on the eGovPH app and the Online Employment Contract Verification System.

He added that the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has issued nearly 300,000 electronic cards aimed at improving OFWs’ access to government services. 

Health support programs, including the OFW Hospital and OWWA Botika, are also being expanded.

For OFWs in distress, the President noted that the AKSYON Fund continues to provide legal, medical, and financial assistance through DMW’s Migrant Workers Offices and regional units.

Marcos also cited improvements in airport services, including dedicated OFW lounges at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and reiterated the government’s intensified campaign against human trafficking.

Returning OFWs, he said, are being supported through reintegration programs such as start-up capital, financial literacy training, and livelihood aid.

The President also acknowledged the presence of First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, who he said has recently assisted OWWA in activities for OFWs in Europe.

The ceremony honored outstanding OFWs who have demonstrated excellence and brought recognition to the country.