In a recent speech, President Marcos expressed his ambition to make overseas employment a choice rather than a necessity for Filipinos. He highlighted the government's commitment to improving local opportunities and safeguarding the rights of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

However, this vision seems contradictory, as his administration's economic policies still heavily rely on the exportation of Filipino labor. This reliance on remittances has been a cornerstone of the Philippine economy since the Labor Code was enacted in 1974, promoting the overseas employment of Filipino workers.
The establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in 2021 was meant to protect OFWs, yet it underscores a persistent contradiction: rather than creating jobs at home, the government continues to institutionalize labor migration.
Currently, about 10 million Filipinos work in over 200 countries, with many facing precarious situations. Despite the President's declarations, the government remains dependent on remittances, which contributed nearly 9% to the GDP in 2022.
This dependence comes at a high cost. Many Filipino workers find themselves in dangerous conditions abroad, facing exploitation and even death. The system prioritizes financial inflows over the safety and dignity of workers.
To truly redefine the future of Filipino labor, the government must address the structural issues driving migration, including corruption and inadequate local opportunities. Ending the labor export policy is not just an economic issue; it’s about preserving the dignity of Filipino workers and proving that they can thrive at home as well.
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