Palace holds concert for OFWs

Upgrade to High-Speed Internet for only ₱1499/month!

Enjoy up to 100 Mbps fiber broadband, perfect for browsing, streaming, and gaming.

Visit Suniway.ph to learn

April 28, 2025 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The migrant workers sector, which has kept the economy afloat and has gained political spotlight in the rift between the Marcoses and the Dutertes, was honored during the latest installment of a Malacañang concert series that highlights nation-building efforts while promoting emerging artists.

Titled “Konsyerto sa Palasyo: Para sa Ating Mga OFWs (overseas Filipino workers),” the concert was held yesterday at the Kalayaan Grounds to honor the sacrifices and hard work of migrant workers and to recognize their contributions to various industries worldwide.

Unlike previous installations of the concert series, President Marcos was not able to witness the musical treat because he traveled to Vatican City to attend the funeral of Pope Francis. However, he came up with a video message to thank the OFWs for their dedication to improve the lives of their families, their communities and the country.

“You are one of the reasons behind the development of our nation. You continue to show the world the skill, resilience and diligence of the Filipino,” he said.

Money sent home by OFWs helps the economy by boosting domestic consumption.

Last month, some Filipino workers in Croatia announced a plan to hold a “zero remittance week” in support of former president Rodrigo Duterte, who was arrested and brought to The Hague for alleged crimes of humanity linked to his war on drugs.

Malacañang had said that such a plan would not gain widespread support even as it clarified that the Marcos administration is an ally, not an enemy of Filipino migrant workers.

Also last month, 20 Filipinos were arrested and detained in Qatar for joining an alleged unauthorized pro-Duterte rally in Qatar. The Qatari government has decided not to pursue charges against the rally participants.

Officials of different agencies involved in programs for OFWs such as the migrant workers, foreign affairs, tourism and trade departments were present during the concert.

The musical treat featured performances from homegrown Filipino talents including Rap Cañedo from Davao de Oro, Marielle Montellano from Cebu, Chito Ricafrente from Quezon, Winchester Lopez from La Union, the KSP Band and Primedance Manila.

Reuben Laurente, a multi-awarded Filipino singer and former member of premier vocal group The Company was the concert’s special guest.

The Konsyerto sa Palasyo was launched in 2023. Its first installations honored the contributions of soldiers, athletes, teachers, health workers and movie industry workers.