President Marcos Jr. calls on OFWs to invest in Phl

UNITED STATES – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday (US Time) urged Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to encourage their families and friends to visit and invest in the Philippines, highlighting the country's rich tourism potential and improving economic prospects.

Addressing a Filipino community in Los Angeles before heading out to Honolulu, Marcos Jr. expressed gratitude for their unwavering support and contributions to the Philippine economy. He acknowledged the significant role of OFW remittances in sustaining the country's growth, particularly during challenging times.

Marcos Jr. highlighted the significant role of overseas Filipino worker remittances in bolstering the Philippine economy amid external headwinds.

The Chief Executive, citing latest data from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, mentioned that the personal remittances from overseas Filipino workers increased by 2.2 percent to $3.13 billion in June 2023 from $3.06 billion registered in June 2022.

He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by OFWs, who work hard to provide for their families and communities back home.

"Your remittances have become a very important part of our economy. It keeps on increasing every year," Marcos Jr. said.

He further emphasized the importance of OFWs as ambassadors of Filipino culture and champions of the country's tourism, trade, and investment potential. He encouraged them to share their experiences and positive impressions of the Philippines, attracting visitors and investors.

"Continue being the ambassadors that you have been for our Filipino culture and relentless champions of the Philippines as a tourism, trade, and investment destination in Asia," Marcos Jr. urged.

In addition to promoting tourism, Marcos Jr. expressed his vision for a future where working overseas is not a necessity but rather a choice among many options available to Filipinos. He emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to achieve this goal.

"But we cannot make this dream come true all by ourselves, we need your support and we know that you will gladly walk, and continue working with us in realizing our goal," Marcos Jr. remarked.

The President also encouraged OFWs to continue nurturing and passing on their Filipino identity and heritage to their children and grandchildren, ensuring that the spirit of the Philippines remains strong across generations.

"Teach them to your children, to your grandchildren. Pass on your love of the Philippines to the next generation and the generations after that," Marcos Jr. advised.