Camille Villar vows stronger protection, support for OFWs
MANILA, Philippines – Millennial senatorial candidate Camille Villar has reaffirmed her commitment to making overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) a top priority, highlighting the need for stronger government support and better protection for modern-day heroes and their families.
Recognizing the sacrifices OFWs make to provide better lives for their loved ones back home, Villar emphasized the need for a more integrated and responsive government approach.
She noted that while Congress has already created the Department of Migrant Workers, the agency continues to face “birth pains” in handling the complexities of OFW-related cases—including maltreatment, overstaying, and repatriation issues.
“The government must always be ready to protect our OFWs. At the same time, we should equip them and their families with the skills and knowledge to invest their hard-earned income wisely,” Villar said.
Villar also shared that her family has a “long and deep relationship” with OFWs, recalling that her father, former Senate President Manny Villar, built his first housing unit for an OFW nearly five decades ago.
The family’s commitment continues today through initiatives such as the OFW Family Summit, organized by the Villar family under the leadership of Manny and Senator Cynthia Villar.
Held annually, the OFW Family Summit provides seminars on government assistance programs, livelihood opportunities, financial literacy, and inspiring success stories of OFWs who transitioned into entrepreneurs after returning home.
The summit also awards house-and-lot packages to select OFW families—a tribute to their dreams of homeownership.
“We aim to help OFW families start their own businesses or find ways to sustain their livelihoods. It’s our way of giving back to those who sacrifice so much for their families and the nation,” Villar said.
She vowed to continue championing the rights and welfare of OFWs.
“Life will always bring challenges, but I will always be here for our OFWs, working to ensure they are protected and supported.”
