Luigi wants guidelines for OFWs in times of crisis

CEBU, Philippines -  A bill is now pending in Congress for common guidelines for Philippine embassies and consulates situated in the different parts of the world to follow in times of crisis for displaced Overseas Filipino Workers for immediate release of assistance.

In filing the bill, sixth district Rep. Luigi Quisumbing said the OFWs have given so much for the country, especially to the local economy. He added the bill seeks to address immediately the OFWs’ needs like safety evacuation centers, food and communication.

Quisumbing explained that although the Philippine embassies and consulates have been helping OFWs in distress, the legislative measure would require a support staff to reinforce the efforts of embassy personnel to be deployed in crisis areas.

The other day, Quisumbing gave scholarship assistance to 12 displaced Cebuano OFWs from the war-stricken Libya. The OFWs’ respective families, who are residents of sixth district, were also given free livelihood training.

They are just the first batch of beneficiaries, who will take any approved skills training of TESDA for free at Benedicto College in Mandaue City.

Engr. Kenneth Huan, vice president of Benedicto College, said if the OFWs themselves will not avail of the scholarship, any of their dependents can use it.

Quisumbing said the displaced workers have to enhance their skills as there will be a massive need for skilled laborers, especially in the disaster-affected Japan.

More displaced OFWs from Japan, New Zealand, Jordan, and Bahrain who are residents of the sixth district are also expected to avail of the scholarship.

Wilfredo Cabiso, one of the displaced OFWs from Libya and a resident of Cordova town said the scholarship assistance provided by Quisumbing would be a big help for him to further enhance his skills as a mechanic and for him to be better prepared for the future job.

The other 11 beneficiaries are Reyndon Peñas, Alan Mordeno, Christopher Gesulga, Jose Miranda, Rodrito Villacorta, Joseph Villacorta, Nemesio Ortiz, Arthur Lepatan and Jelito Otera, all of Mandaue City and Evelyn Singculan of Cordova. (FREEMAN)