Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Zamboanga (Agenzia Fides) - There are over 9 million of them scattered all over the world: in Europe, the Middle East, America. They are Overseas Filipino Worker - expatriates who have left their country in search of employment, and they have become a potential force in spreading the values of universal fraternity. They should take the opportunity to become agents of dialogue, peace, and reconciliation in the places where they live, at times in the midst of difficulties and discriminations. These are the thoughts behind the new project being launched by the Sisilah Center in South Philippines, that works for the improvement of Muslim-Christian relations and has begun to expand its radius of activity to include programs and initiatives taking place all over the world.
The project is entitled, “Filipino Overseas for Dialogue and Peace,” and is based on the premise that the Filipino immigrants who leave their country in search of work opportunities and to escape the vicious cycle of poverty, are a growing number that should be accepted. It is also a situation that has its dangers and negative aspects, in that it divides families (in that one of the two spouses must spend long periods of time away from the rest of the family) and contributes to the disintegration of society in the Philippines. Oftentimes, children grow up knowing only one of their parent, and this can have negative consequences, even during childhood. The situation also opens the doors to organized crime groups and illegal trafficking networks who, with false promises for a better life, enslave women and introduce them into the prostitution world.
However, this reality also presents challenges and opportunities on a cultural level and in the area of evangelization. The project that has been launched by Sisilah, in collaboration with governmental institutions and NGOs, seeks to promote and control a legal immigration channel with ensured destinations, with a second phase follow-up to facilitate the reunion of family members. In addition, the project proposes a formation program for workers on their way overseas, making them aware of their mission, which goes beyond their employment. It implies becoming workers for dialogue, peace, and reconciliation, living an exemplary life in their words, actions and in their relationships with employers and other families, including those of other nationalities and cultures, who they meet along their way. (PA) (Agenzia Fides: righe 31, parole 387)
