Publisher’sNote
OFWs Woes Remedies
W
e hear of news that thousands of our hardworking OFWs
based in the Middle East—primarily in the Persian Gulf area
and in Saudi Arabia are being laid off due to the economic
slowdown triggered by declining crude oil prices. In the past,
this would be so unthinkable considering the fact that the
Middle East holds over half of the untapped petroleum
reserves in the world! Hence the gold rush of OFWs to that area during the
70s, 80s and 90s.
But alas, times have changed and new realities have stepped in. For one,
the oil reserves of the Middle East are known to be fast depleting, prompting
governments in these countries to seek other economic alternatives to
cushion the impact of declining production. Then there is the demand for
cleaner, more eco-friendly and cost efficient alternative energy sources that
have also helped drive the prices of fossil fuels down. Not to be outdone is the
emergence of ‘newer markets’ with vast oil reserves in countries north of the
Middle East, particularly Russia, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, among others.
But even in those changing times, as more Saudi-based OFWs have lost their
jobs, not all hope is lost in their quest to give their families and dependents a
better future. Aware of this scenario, the DOLE, in partnership with CHED
and DSWD have come up with their concerted efforts to assist families
of these OFWs. With the involvement of CHED, dependents can avail of
scholarship programs that can enable them to attain their long-cherished
dream of completing their studies. And, thanks to DSWD, its Cash For
Work program will help these same families and dependents enjoy the
benefits of temporary employment and who knows, develop their own
skills and mettle to become entrepreneurs.
We owe our thanks for the selflessness and understanding of our people in
DOLE, CHED and DSWD for coming up with workable solutions that can be
the start of something more fulfilling for both OFWs and their families as they
encounter financial crises. But knowing the Filipino knack for survival, their
determination to rise above the ashes—coupled with the assi