As a culminating activity of the Regional Development Council (RDC2) week celebration, the Sub-Committee on Migration and Development (SCMD) of the RDC2-Social Development Committee conducted the first Cagayan Valley Migration and Development Forum on September 28, 2023 in Tuguegarao City. The forum aimed to empower the children of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) through the sharing of experiences, success stories, and psychosocial lectures.
Professor Jesus B. Leonardo and Engineer Marpol Polanco discussed their respective journeys, highlighting their triumphs and challenges in their respective fields abroad. Ms. Edralyn Joy Gandeza and Mr. Alvin Ayson also shared their experiences as children of OFWs. They recounted their personal journeys, stressing their achievements and difficulties, and offering advices to their fellow OFW children.
Another highlight of the event was the lecture on the gains and threats faced by OFWs and their families by Dr. Teresita T. Lasam of the Guidance Services Office, Saint Paul’s University Tuguegarao City. She emphasized to the participants the importance of pursuing their education to inspire their parents working abroad, love of family, and emotional guidance.
Through the forum, the participants exchanged experiences, and established network with individuals who share similar backgrounds and aspirations. The engaging discussions fostered a sense of unity, resilience, and determination among the participants.
In closing, Director Virsie B. Tamayao of OWWA 2 expressed her gratitude to the Regional Development Council for its support in making the forum possible and emphasized the importance of promoting the welfare and development of OFW families in the region. With the success of the event, the SCMD anticipates organizing similar activities in the future to continue fostering a supportive environment for OFW and their families. Through these initiatives, the region aims to advance the welfare and progress of migrant workers and their loved ones, ensuring that they are equipped with the resources needed to lead fulfilling lives.
A total of 87 OFW children and some parents attended the activity, hailing from various State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across the region.