Speech delivered by NCMF OIC Secretary Yusoph J. Mando during the Ceremonial Signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between the NCMF and the Department of Migrant Workers held on February 22, 2024
Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Rahim. Alhamdulillahi Rabbil ‘alamin. Wassalatu wassalamu ‘ala Rasulillahi wa ‘ala aalihi wa sahbihi ajma’in. Assalamo alaikom wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu!
Ladies and gentlemen,
With great honor and privilege, I stand before you today, on this momentous occasion, the Ceremonial Signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) and the Department of Migrant Workers.
This agreement marks a significant milestone in our journey towards ensuring the welfare and empowerment of our Muslim Filipino brothers and sisters, particularly those working abroad. As we gather here today, we emphatically reaffirm our commitment to serve and protect the rights and interests of our migrant workers, who contribute immensely to the growth and development of our nation. This agreement aligns with the Bagong Pilipinas movement’s vision and principles under President Marcos’s administration, prioritizing the well-being and advancement of all Filipinos, including our migrant workers.
The signing of this memorandum underscores the collaborative efforts between the NCMF and the Department of Migrant Workers in addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by our Muslim migrant workers. Through this partnership, we aim to enhance the provision of essential services, support mechanisms, and advocacy initiatives that promote their well-being, dignity, and rights.
We recognize the invaluable contributions of our migrant workers in various sectors, from healthcare to construction, from education to hospitality. Their hard work, sacrifices, and resilience sustain their families and drive our country’s economy forward. Our duty and responsibility is to ensure that they are accorded the respect, protection, and assistance they rightfully deserve.
This memorandum of agreement serves as a framework for collaboration, coordination, and cooperation between our two agencies. It outlines concrete steps and measures to address critical issues such as labor rights, access to legal assistance, social protection, and reintegration support for returning migrant workers. By working hand in hand, we can create a more conducive environment that promotes the welfare and rights of our Muslim migrant workers.
Furthermore, this partnership reflects our shared commitment to upholding the principles of inclusivity, justice, and solidarity within our diverse Filipino Muslim community. Regardless of geographical boundaries or socio-economic status, every Muslim Filipino deserves equal opportunities, respect, and dignity. Through this memorandum, we reaffirm our pledge to stand in solidarity with our migrant workers, to amplify their voices, and to champion their rights on both local and international platforms.
As we embark on this collaborative journey, let us remain steadfast in our resolve to build a society where no one is left behind and every Filipino, regardless of race, religion, or status, can live with dignity and pride. Let us work tirelessly to create a future where our migrant workers can thrive, flourish, and fulfill their dreams at home and abroad.
In closing, I express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to the realization of this memorandum of agreement. To the officials and staff of the NCMF and the Department of Migrant Workers, thank you for your dedication, hard work, and commitment to serving our migrant workers. Let us continue striving for a better and brighter future for all.
Thank you, and may peace and blessings be upon you all.
Salam, and mabuhay ang ating mga manggagawang Pilipino!
