The Philippine government is working with host countries to protect the rights of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), especially the assurance of “safe and humane” working conditions, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Saturday.

Speaking before the Filipino community in Osaka, Japan, Marcos said his administration will do its best to ensure “smooth” employment and deployment processes for OFWs.

“Masigasig din ang ating pakikipag-ugnayan sa iba’t ibang bansang tumatanggap ng ating manggagawa para makabuo ng bilateral labor agreement upang matiyak natin na ligtas at maka-tao ang trabaho at nabibigyan ng pagkakataong umunlad ang ating kababayan (We are also eager to reach out to the various countries that are accepting OFWs so that we can form a bilateral labor agreement and ensure safe and humane workplace and that our fellow Filipinos will be given a chance to thrive),” Marcos said.

Marcos said better opportunities also await OFWs who wish to return home and stay for good.

He said the government would continue implementing programs, projects and services aimed at protecting and promoting the OFWs’ welfare.

“I recognize the weight of your sacrifice and the strength that it takes to provide for your families from afar. And that is why we will never tire of honoring you and finding ways to improve your lives. You are at the heart of our government’s efforts and you deserve not only our gratitude, but you deserve our full support,” he said.

Marcos likewise recognized the significant role of the Filipino-Japanese youth in sustaining the Philippines’ “dynamic and enduring” ties with Japan.

He expressed confidence that the two countries will continue to build a “mutually stable, secure and prosperous relationship.”

“Through you, we continue to write new pages in the history of the relations between our two countries. Through you, the spirit of friendship with our Japanese friends continues to thrive,” Marcos said.

“This is why I hope you will join me and the Philippine nation in helping our community here in Japan to grow even more in love with the Philippines, to learn and embrace fully your Filipino identity, to support our nation’s aspirations for unity, for peace, and for prosperity.”

Marcos is in Osaka for a working visit following the invitation of Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru to attend the World Expo 2025 and visit the Philippine Pavilion.

Marcos also held a series of meetings with Japanese tourism and business leaders. (PNA)