Migrante Middle East expresses its deep concern over the recent arrest of Filipino migrant workers (OFWs) in Qatar and urges all OFWs in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region to exercise caution in expressing their political views.
While we acknowledge that every individual has the right to express their opinions, even if we may differ in our political beliefs, we emphasize that this should not compromise their safety or jeopardize their employment abroad. We emphasize the critical importance of thoroughly studying the laws and regulations of their respective host nations, exercising safety in all expressions of opinion.
We also call on the Marcos administration to provide urgent legal assistance to the detained OFWs and refrain from politicizing the issue, especially in cases involving OFWs who may have supported the Duterte administration. The immediate focus should be on securing the release of those arrested, without any partisan agenda.
Furthermore, we urge Filipino migrant workers to take a deeper look into the political issues back home. It is time to stop idolizing political leaders, particularly those from political dynasties, who abandon their campaign promises and duties once elected.
Migrante Middle East calls on OFWs to refocus their attention on issues that genuinely affect their lives and the lives of their families. We need to continue fighting for a living wage for Filipino families, genuine agrarian reform, an end to contractualization, and the creation of more job opportunities within the Philippines. We demand that the Marcos and Duterte regimes prioritize the welfare of Filipino workers, not by sending them abroad, but by providing them with the opportunities to live and thrive at home.
Let us unite in the struggle for a better future for all Filipino workers, both overseas and in the Philippines.#
