Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday, May 2, urged families of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Kuwait to calm down amid efforts to resolve the Philippines-Kuwait labor rift.
Cayetano apologized to families affected by the issue and called for their patience as the two countries continue to iron out labor issues.
“We assure everyone that the Philippine government will remain guided by the national interest in seeking solutions that would be beneficial to all concerned,” Cayetano said at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport after welcoming expelled Philippine ambassador to Kuwait Renato Villa.
“In other words po, kalma lang po,” he added.
Meanwhile, he thanked the Kuwaiti government for its expression of willingness to settle the issue in a calm manner.
“I would like to take this opportunity to once again express our appreciation to the gesture to the government of the State of Kuwait, in conveying its desire to move forward and to work with us in addressing concerns related to our overseas workers,” he said.
“With special mention to my counterpart, the Foreign Minister of Kuwait, who appealed for calm so that we can resolve, you know, this miscommunication,” he added.
Cayetano also underscored the role of the “historical ties” and “strong bond” between the two countries as crucial factors in the misunderstanding.
“The positive response that we have received from Kuwait now provides us with an excellent opportunity to write a new chapter that should allow us to overcome any and all future challenges between the two countries,” he added.
Cayetano assured the Philippine government is in constant coordination with Kuwait. He, however, is firm on his stand to protect the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
“The welfare and protection of all Filipinos around the world is our job, is our duty, is our core interest,” he said.
