Protecting rights, welfare of OFWs | The Exchange

Summary

This special Christmas episode of *The Exchange* honors overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) for their dedication in supporting their families and contributing to the economy. Key discussions focus on the challenges faced by OFWs, including job displacement during the pandemic, the importance of balikbayan boxes in connecting families, and the entrepreneurial success of Filipinos abroad. Experts and business owners share insights on how OFWs and Filipinos abroad continue to thrive in their respective industries, and how they contribute to the economy and society, with a strong emphasis on the value of supporting local businesses and talent in the Philippines.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Christmas episode of The Exchange honors Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) for their hard work and dedication to their families, highlighting their significant role in the country’s economy.
• 😀 OFWs contribute a substantial portion (8-9%) of the Philippine GDP, with their remittances supporting the nation's economic stability.
• 😀 The government has been addressing the welfare of OFWs, though advocates suggest there is still much more to be done to ensure their protection and well-being.
• 😀 The pandemic has negatively impacted the employment of many OFWs, leading to calls for further government support in safeguarding migrant workers.
• 😀 LBC Express, a logistics company, plays a key role in delivering balikbayan boxes, which are an integral part of the Filipino Christmas tradition, by ensuring timely and secure deliveries.
• 😀 Despite challenges like rising costs, LBC Express has not passed on these increases to consumers and has continued to offer incentives and promotions during the holiday season.
• 😀 LBC ships between 7,000 and 7,500 containers annually from regions such as North America, the Middle East, and Europe, ensuring that boxes reach Filipino families across the Philippines.
• 😀 Post-pandemic, there is a significant focus on handling shipments efficiently, ensuring safety, and managing logistics during peak seasons.
• 😀 The cost of logistics has been affected by the weak peso, inflation, and rising fuel prices, but LBC has strategically managed forward contracts to mitigate these challenges.
• 😀 Filipino success stories highlight the grit and determination of overseas workers, with entrepreneurs like Mabel Amante-Villena and Leslie Mobile achieving success both abroad and in the Philippines.
• 😀 The advice to Filipinos working abroad includes creating multiple income streams, transitioning to business ownership while balancing a stable income, and eventually returning to the Philippines for financial freedom and family reunification.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the special Christmas episode of The Exchange?

The main theme of the special Christmas episode of The Exchange is to honor overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and highlight their contributions to both their families and the Philippine economy, particularly during the holiday season.

What challenges do overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) face, according to Ellen Sana?

Ellen Sana mentions that while the government has made strides in supporting OFWs, challenges remain, especially in terms of the displacement of workers during the pandemic and the ongoing need for more protection and welfare support.

What role does the private sector play in supporting OFWs?

The private sector, as highlighted in the episode, plays a critical role in ensuring that the labor of OFWs reaches home safely and securely, particularly through services like balikbayan box delivery.

How does LBC Express ensure the safe and efficient delivery of balikbayan boxes?

LBC Express ensures safe and efficient delivery by sealing the boxes, scanning them for safety, and working with reliable logistics partners. They also handle the boxes with care during both overseas and domestic distribution.

What impact did the pandemic have on the balikbayan box delivery business?

The pandemic caused disruptions, such as a supply chain glut and rising fuel costs, but the demand for balikbayan boxes remained high. Despite challenges, companies like LBC Express adapted by securing contracts to mitigate the effects of these disruptions.

How has LBC Express managed the rising costs associated with the delivery business?

LBC Express managed rising costs, including those related to fuel and inflation, by securing forward contracts and not passing on these increases to consumers. They also offered promotional activities to maintain customer satisfaction.

What is the expected outlook for the cargo handling business in 2023?

The outlook for 2023 remains optimistic as logistics, especially during peak seasons like Christmas, continues to be a busy and crucial segment, despite some cost increases and ongoing supply chain issues.

What personal experience led Mabel Amante Villena to start her business in the Philippines?

Mabel Amante Villena started her business, Clean and Green, in the Philippines after noticing that her husband would suffer allergy attacks whenever they visited the country. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to address this issue by creating a cleaning service business.

What advice did Mabel Amante Villena give to Filipinos looking to start a business while abroad?

Mabel advises Filipinos abroad to create multiple income streams, especially while working a 9-to-5 job. She suggests that businesses or side hustles should be pursued in parallel, allowing for financial independence and the ability to return to the Philippines when ready.

What was Leslie Mobley’s motivation for pursuing fashion abroad and later returning to the Philippines?

Leslie Mobley pursued his fashion career abroad, particularly in London, after receiving advice from mentors that his talent would thrive better overseas. However, he later felt a strong desire to give back to the Philippines, where he found happiness working in the local fashion industry.