Starting April 9, millions of Filipinos abroad will be the first to choose the next leaders of the Philippines. The following are the promises of the five presidential candidates for the better life of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs):
Vice President Jejomar Binay promised that working abroad will be a matter of choice, and not necessity, for Filipinos. Binay was formerly a presidential adviser of OFW concerns.
Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte said he will dedicate the first six months of his term eradicating crime so that OFWs will not be worried about the safety of their family back home. He also promised to establish an OFW bank for easier transactions and to provide legal officers to assist distressed OFWs.
Senator Grace Poe promised to grant credit assistance and tax incentives for OFWs who plan to go into business upon returning to the country.
Former Interior and Local Government secretary Mar Roxas said his administration will continue the current administration’s projects to improve the lives of OFWs and their families.
Finally, Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago promised to create a multi-agency task force that will seek to prevent the abuse of OFWs. She also filed a bill in the Senate in order to expand the legal assistance fund for OFWs facing charges abroad.
Images Credit to GMA News
