President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. hailed the Filipino community in the United Arab Emirates as a “source of pride and honor” during a high-profile working visit to Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Addressing a gathering of approximately 700 Filipinos at the InterContinental Hotel, the President recognized their profound impact on the UAE’s development and their vital role in the Philippine economy.
The President lauded the resilience and world-class work ethic of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), noting that their contributions have earned global respect from employers and world leaders alike. “You bring honor to our country through your contributions to the UAE, the example you set in your work, and the economic support you provide to our beloved Philippines,” President Marcos stated in Filipino.
He emphasized that the UAE now hosts one of the largest Filipino communities in the Middle East, a testament to the enduring bond between the two nations.
The visit marked a historic milestone in Philippine-UAE relations with the signing of two major agreements:
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Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA): A landmark trade pact designed to expand market access for Filipino entrepreneurs and workers while strengthening investment ties.
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MOU on Defense Cooperation: An agreement aimed at enhancing regional security and bilateral strategic partnership.
President Marcos and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan witnessed the signing, which the President described as “crucial” for long-term national prosperity and security under the vision of Bagong Pilipinas.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to OFW welfare, the President highlighted the OFW Serbisyo Caravan held alongside the event. The caravan provided essential government services to 694 Filipinos, recording over 2,387 transactions.
Key Services Provided Included:
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Documentation: Passport renewals and contract verification.
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Social Protection: SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG registrations.
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Health & Legal: Legal assistance and financial aid to 117 cancer patients, personally attended to by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac.
President Marcos concluded his address by encouraging lifelong learning and the spirit of Bayanihan. He thanked the UAE government for its hospitality and reiterated that the Philippine government is working to create a future where every Filipino has the chance to succeed, whether at home or abroad.
The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Finance Acting Secretary Frederick Go, and DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, among others.
