Western Union salutes Overseas Filipino Workers through song

CEBU, Philippines - The Western Union Company, a leader in the money transfer segment of global payments, today unveiled “Galing ng Pinoy,” a song that celebrates the “can do” spirit of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW).

“Galing ng Pinoy” is a unique tribute to OFW heroes, who inspire us with their selfless sacrifices and perseverance,” said Patricia Riingen, senior vice president, Pacific and Indochina, The Western Union Company. “We are proud to be an organization that understands the lives and needs of OFWs and stands by them every step of the way in their journey. This song is a gift we hope will inspire and engage Filipinos abroad and at home.”

To bring “Galing ng Pinoy” to life, Western Union collaborated with three top Filipino talents: multi-platinum music producer Jonathan Manalo, singing champion Rhap Salazar and award-winning director GB Sampedro. The three-minute song speaks of the world-class excellence of the OFW, starting with aspirations to improve his life, continuing with a journey fueled by perseverance and talent and ending with his dreams achieved.

“Wherever you take him, he stands shoulder to shoulder with anyone. Tatapat siya (He measures up)!” Jonathan Manolo said. With lyrics such as “Pinoy ang galing mo/ Sa buong mundo’y ipagsisigawan/ ...Saludo ang mundo/ Sa galing ng pinoy,” the four-verse song hails Filipino migrants workers as the country's modern heroes.

Performed by 12-year-old Rhap Salazar, a junior grand champion at the World Championship of the Performing Arts, “Galing ng Pinoy” is uplifting and heartwarming. Rhap's youth also adds purity to the message of the song, filling each line with authenticity and emotion. He said, “The song is really beautiful because it talks about the Filipino's determination and strength. Filipinos can do anything because they don't stop until they reach their dreams.”

With a moving rendition laid on an easy melody, “Galing ng Pinoy” is sure to become an anthem for OFWs stationed far from home, providing them with inspiration to keep pursuing their goals.

The new song has been released as a music video directed by GB Sampedro, a recepient of the best director award at the most recent Cinemalaya Film Festival and competed at the recently concluded 14th Pusan International Film Festival. Underlining family values, the video starts with a mother leaving her husband and daughter to work abroad. She is a model of sacrifice as she enters a new life as a worker in a strange land. She shows the value of perseverance, working her way up in her career and improving the life of her family back home. She presents the rewards of hard work when, with her goals achieved, she reunites with her family in the Philippines.

With 150 years of experience in connecting people, Western Union has more than 385,000 locations in 200 countries and territories. As a trusted partner, the company provides a fast, reliable, and convenient way of reaching loved ones through an extensive money transfer network. Western Union also empowers OFWs and their families by providing access to better education and economic opportunities through its five-year, US$50-million Our World, Our Family® signature program.