President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has directed Secretary of Migrant Workers Hans Cacdac to establish a Migrant Workers Office in Phnom Penh, Cambodia—a move he described as a way of giving back to overseas Filipinos for their sacrifices.
A Grateful President
Speaking before the Filipino community in Cambodia, Marcos grew emotional as he acknowledged the hard work of migrant Filipinos.
“Baka hindi niyo pa alam… kami po ay talagang nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng inyong ginagawa—hindi lamang para sa sarili at pamilya ninyo, kundi para sa buong Pilipinas,” Marcos said.
He admitted that the warm greetings he receives from world leaders are because of the good reputation Filipinos have built abroad.
A Promise to Serve
The President emphasized that the government must repay the sacrifices of overseas Filipinos with genuine service.
“Kaya’t naatasan ko si Secretary Cacdac na magbukas ng Migrant Workers Office dito sa Phnom Penh,” he announced, sparking cheers from the audience.
Marcos did not give an exact timeline for the opening but assured it will be “soon.”
Beyond Borders
The President also reminded the community that the government’s responsibility goes beyond looking after them abroad.
“Hindi natatapos ang ating tungkulin sa inyong kapakanan habang nasa ibayong dagat. Kahit sa sariling tahanan, patuloy nating pinapaunlad ang kalidad ng buhay ng ating mga kababayan,” he said.
A State Visit with Purpose
Marcos arrived in Cambodia on Sunday for a three-day state visit, his second since becoming president. He was accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Secretary Cacdac, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., Trade Secretary Cristina Roque, Commission on Higher Education chair Shirley Agrupis, and other officials.
For the President, the new Migrant Workers Office is more than just policy—it’s a promise of care and gratitude for Filipinos who carry the nation’s name with pride wherever they go.
