President Bongbong Marcos on Thursday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening protection and expanding services for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), whom he called the nation’s modern-day heroes.
Speaking at the 2025 Bagong Bayani Awards in Malacañang, he said the government would continue delivering support through the Department of Migrant Workers.
“Kaya bilang suporta, asahan ninyo na nandito lang ang inyong pamahalaan,” Marcos said, adding that the DMW would “continue to elevate protection, streamline services, and ensure that every OFW is treated as the hero that they are.”
The Bagong Bayani Awards—first established in 1983—serve as the government’s highest tribute to OFWs, recognizing courage, excellence, and service across multiple categories. New honors introduced this year include the Heroic Act Award, Successful Reintegration Award, and the Susan “Toots” V. Ople Award.
“Ngayong araw, magbibigay pugay tayo sa ating mga bagong bayani,” the President said, praising the global reputation of Filipino workers. He also acknowledged the sacrifices of migrants separated from their families.
“Hindi biro ang manirahan sa ibang bansa… ngunit patuloy pa rin ang inyong mga sakripisyo… Kaya bilang suporta, asahan ninyo na nandito lang ang inyong pamahalaan.”
Marcos highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the digitalization of overseas employment processes, wider use of OWWA e-cards, expanded health services, and reintegration programs offering capital, training, and livelihood assistance. These efforts, he said, aim to ensure that OFWs’ hard work leads to security and success.
“Lahat ng ito ay upang masiguro na hindi masasayang ang inyong pinaghirapan… Kaya naman po sa inyong pag-alis at sa inyong pagbalik, tandaan po ninyo na hindi kailanman kayo nag-iisa,” he said.
“Gagawin namin ang aming makakaya upang maprotektahan at masuportahan ang bawat Bagong Bayani.”