A group of twenty-three Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the Kingdom of Bahrain recently received their certificates of training after successfully completing a Dressmaking skills program. This initiative was organized by Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN), the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and took place at Arman Hotel.
During the ceremony, Celia Cabadonga, the Officer-in-Charge of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), extended her congratulations to the graduates. She commended Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN) for their consistent support for the cause of overseas workers.
In her inspirational address, Philippine Ambassador to Bahrain, Her Excellency Anne Jalando-on Louis, congratulated the participants on their successful completion of the skills training. She recognized their commitment to investing their time in learning and encouraged them to utilize their newfound skills for future endeavors.
“Whatever skills you’ve acquired through these programs will empower you and open doors to opportunities that will benefit you and your families,” Ambassador Louis remarked. She also praised PIN for their dedication and cooperation with the embassy, including dressmaking trainer Epifania Puyoc, who served as a resource speaker.
During her address, outgoing OWWA Welfare Officer, Redina Manlapaz, emphasized that the opportunities provided by OWWA can serve as a solid foundation for additional income or as a stepping stone to initiate a business in the future after overseas work.
The 6-Friday skills training program covered the basics of dressmaking, including hands-on machine exercises, pattern making, cutting, draping, fabric design, and illustration. Each student had the opportunity to design, cut, and sew the gowns they wore during the graduation ceremony.
Marijoy de Vera, one of the students with over 10 years of overseas work experience in Bahrain, expressed her gratitude for the PIN and OWWA project. She described it as an empowering initiative that equips migrant workers with skills for financial independence.
“We gradually progressed through the training phase and learned a great deal from our teacher and volunteers who were incredibly cooperative and kind,” said Marijoy de Vera.
Dinah Sta. Ana, president of PIN, expressed her gratitude to OWWA, PIN, and the Philippine Embassy for partnering in this skill-oriented training. She highlighted the significance of the trainees reaping the rewards of their hard work over the six weeks of training.
PIN, a registered non-stock, non-profit organization, is known for its charitable works, including assisting distressed overseas workers in need of medical assistance.
This initiative underlines the commitment to empowering overseas workers with valuable skills, enhancing their self-sufficiency, and offering new opportunities for personal and financial growth.
(Content contributed by Cecil V. Ancheta, Filipino Writers’ Circle, Kingdom of Bahrain)
