House Deputy Speaker and Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar acknowledged the sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers (OFW) for their families.
“Taas po ang kamay ko sa inyong pagmamahal sa inyong mga pamilya, at sa inyong walang sawang pagtataguyod sa kanila, na kahit po malayo kayo sa kanila ay nandito pa din kayo ngayon, lumalaban at nagtataguyod para sa kinabukasan ng inyong pamilya at mahal sa buhay. Saludo po ako sa inyong lahat!” said Villar during her visit to Taiwan last Sunday for the “Paskong Pinoy 2024: Piyesta, Musika at Kultura” Christmas gathering organized by the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO).
She said that her parents— former Senate President Manny Villar and incumbent Sen. Cynthia Villar – have always reminded her to care for the welfare of OFWs “dahil kayo talaga ang tunay na mga bayani ng ating bansa.”
“You have brought honor to our country through your dedication, hard work, and perseverance wherever you are in the world. You embody the values of sipag and tiyaga, the same values that my parents taught me, and for that, I understand all your struggles and I am so deeply proud of all of you,” she added.
Villar likewise recognized the efforts of MECO chairperson and resident representative Cheloy Garafil for organizing the gathering, which she said “captures the very essence of who we are as a people.”
“Today, we showcase not only our rich heritage but also our innate strength and ability to adapt and flourish in any environment. These celebrations are markers of our identity and reminders of our indomitable spirit,” she added. “Thank you for being the light and strength of the Filipino community here in Taiwan.”
During the event held at the Zhong Mei Tang Gym of the Fu Jen Catholic University in New Taipei City, Villar drew the winning number for the top prize – a house and lot courtesy of the Vista Land property developer owned by her family.
Angelica Abellano, a teacher from Tinambac, Camarines Sur, who has been working in Taiwan for just a year, took home the grand prize.
Source: https://politiko.com.ph/2024/12/10/taas-po-ang-kamay-ko-camille-villar-lauds-sacrifices-of-ofws-for-their-families/politiko-lokal/