Inihain ni KABAYAN Party-list Representative Ron P. Salo, na siya ring chairman ng House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, ang House Bill No. 8574 o ang Kabayan OFW Pension Act. Ang panukalang batas ay naglalayong magtatag ng pension at social security system na eksklusibo para sa overseas Filipino workers (OFW).
“In our consultations with OFWs in different parts of the world, it has become apparent that the establishment of a unique pension system for OFWs is one of their most enduring and urgent aspirations,” saad niya.
“After years of toiling in foreign lands and diligently sending their hard-earned money to their loved ones in the Philippines, they find themselves without adequate social protection in the twilight of their years.”
Sa kasalukuyan, pinapayagan ng Social Security System ang mga OFW na maging voluntary members sa pamamagitan ng mga partikular na paraan. Gayunpaman, hindi nito nasasalamin ang tunay na hangarin ng OFW community.
“The clamor of our OFWs is for a specific and distinct social security system designed for them that acknowledges the unique circumstances and vulnerabilities they face as migrant workers,” ayon kay Salo.
Sa panukalang batas, ang sistema ay inaasahang gagawa ng mga alituntunin para sa retirement benefits, monthly pension, death benefits permanent disability benefits, at funeral benefits ng mga OFW. Bibigyan din nito ng kapangyarihan na magbigay ng iba pang benepisyo sa mga OFW hangga’t may kakayahang pinansyal.
“It is imperative to establish a separate and dedicated social security and pension system specifically tailored to the needs of our OFWs. This system would provide comprehensive social protection, ensuring their overall well-being and offer financial support in the event of job loss, disability, or death, providing a safety net for our OFWs and their families during challenging times,” paglilinaw ni Salo.
Ayon pa sa kanya, ang sistema ay magtatatag ng retirement fund, na magbibigay daan sa mga OFW na makakuha ng social at financial protection sa kanilang pagtanda.
“Our OFWs are vital contributors to our development and fabric as a nation through their hard work, remittances, and sacrifices. It is the State’s duty to provide them a humane and adequate social protection when they choose to finally retire after facing unique challenges and vulnerabilities while working abroad. This is our OFW’s aspirations that we will collectively achieve,” giit ni Salo.
“Providing retirement benefits and pension to our OFWs is one of the most tangible means of showing our genuine gratitude for their sacrifices working in foreign shores.”
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