MANILA, June 23 (PNA) — Catholic prelates said President Benigno Aquinio III should immediately appoint the successor of Vice-President Jejomar Binay as presidential adviser on Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who is looking after the welfare of Filipinos working abroad.
With this, Bishop Ruperto Santos, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMIP) chairman, said the replacement of the resigned Cabinet official should be a true advocate of the OFWs.
“The one to be appointed must have a genuine love and respect for our OFW’s and will stand for them, help them and alleviate their sufferings,” the Balanga, Bataan bishop said.
He also expects Binay to continue to support the welfare of Filipinos who are working abroad since he is still an official of the government.
“VP Binay is still a government official, and in government he must still continue his advocacy, his care and concern for OFWs,” Santos said.
He added, “Anyone in the government or in the Church must do something for our OFWs to protect them and promote their well-being.”
Bishop Broderick Pabillo, chairman of the CBCP-Public Affairs Committee, expressed hopes that the services due to the OFWs and the other agency left by Binay should not be affected.
Aside from looking after the OFWs, the Vice President is also the head of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC).
“Sana hindi maantala serbisyo sa bayan at sana naman si P-noy maglagay na agad ng tao,” the Manila Auxiliary Bishop said.
Binay resigned as member of the Aquino Cabinet Monday. (PNA)