President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. of the Philippines recently delivered a stirring call to action to the Filipino community in the United States, urging them to be proactive ambassadors and champions of their homeland. This appeal was made during his visit to Los Angeles, California, on November 18, as part of his broader trip to the United States following his participation in the 30th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting in San Francisco.
Strengthening Connections and Promoting the Philippines
In his address to the Filipino community in Los Angeles, President Marcos acknowledged the significant contributions of Filipinos in the US, particularly highlighting their remittances, which have seen a 2.2 percent increase. He recognized these contributions as instrumental in helping the Philippines navigate through challenging global and regional financial and economic crises.
President Marcos emphasized the vital role of the Filipino diaspora in promoting the Philippines as a prime destination for tourism, trade, and investment in Asia. He encouraged them to invite friends and family to visit and invest in the Philippines, highlighting the country’s improvements, innovations, and the unique Filipino hospitality that enhances the experience of visiting various tourist sites.
Addressing Challenges and Future Aspirations
The President also spoke about his vision of making overseas work a choice among several options available to Filipinos, rather than a necessity. He requested continued support from the Filipino community in the US for his administration to realize this dream.
In addition to promoting economic and cultural ties, President Marcos addressed the issue of hate crimes against Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in the US. He assured the Filipino community of the Philippine Embassy and Consulates’ commitment to monitoring such incidents and cooperating with US authorities to provide assistance to those affected.
The Filipino Community in the US
The Filipino community in the US, particularly in Southern California, represents the largest Filipino diaspora outside the Philippines, with approximately 4.4 million Filipinos residing in the United States. This community is noted for its high levels of income and educational attainment, as per various US Census statistics, underscoring its significant influence both in the US and the Philippines.
Conclusion
President Marcos’ visit and his message to the Filipino community in the US reflect the Philippine government’s commitment to strengthening ties with its diaspora and promoting the Philippines as a key player in Asia for tourism, trade, and investment. His address serves as a reminder of the influential role that overseas Filipinos play in the socio-economic development of their home country.
Image Credit
- President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. (RTVM Screenshot)