BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental, Philippines – Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson called for tighter and more united efforts in protecting the rights of Filipino migrant workers as the world celebrates International Migrants Day today at the Provincial Capitol with the theme Harnessing the Potential of Human Mobility.
Lacson, in his inspirational message, cited the violations in human and workers rights of the migrant workers, especially those of the undocumented ones, saying these rights have been violated “with impunity”.
The pandemic has also worsened the conditions of the migrant workers, revealing an apparent gap in government policies.
Thus, he said, concerted efforts have to be done to protect the rights of these workers through salient reforms in the existing policies.
Lacson cited United Nations’ numbers revealing that as of the moment, there are about 281 million migrant workers all around the world. Of the number, about 10 million are Filipinos.
Millions more migrate every year in search of better opportunities abroad, Lacson said.
Lacson also lauded the efforts of the migrant workers, as he recognized their contribution to whatever field they enter.
He also assured the migrant workers that he and the provincial government are welll aware of their plight, and that measures would be done to ensure better treatment.
He also recognized the efforts of the Overseas Workers Welfare led by OIC Regional Director Rizza Joy for her efforts in looking after the welfare of Filipino migrant workers under her care as he called on for the continued unwavering support for them.
