First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos visited Bahay Kalinga Shelters 1 and 2 of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, delivering a powerful message of reassurance: “A Government That Is Dependable and Ready to Help Anyone.” Her visit underscores the unwavering commitment of the Philippine government to the welfare and protection of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) worldwide.
The First Lady was accompanied by senior officials from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), highlighting a unified approach to addressing the needs of distressed OFWs.
During her compassionate visit, First Lady Araneta-Marcos personally engaged with the OFWs residing in the shelters. Bahay Kalinga 1 currently houses an estimated 154 women, while Bahay Kalinga 2 provides care for 70 individuals, including 42 adults and 28 children.
In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure the welfare of all OFWs globally, the residents of the shelters received comprehensive assistance. This included financial aid, luggage for their return journey, essential hygiene kits, food provisions, and various other forms of support to facilitate their safe and dignified repatriation to the Philippines.
“Our government is steadfast in its dedication to our modern-day heroes, our OFWs,” stated First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos. “We want every Filipino abroad to know that they are not alone, and that their government is dependable and ready to help them in their time of need.”
The visit reaffirms the administration’s proactive efforts to provide immediate and tangible assistance to OFWs facing challenging circumstances, ensuring their well-being and successful reintegration into Philippine society.
