How does a nation-state understand the condition of another country's migrant workers?
And how does a host country inspire its guest toilers who are considered modern heroes by their homeland.
Still, how do governments respond to the needs of overseas workers?
One of them is a dialogue among panelists, arbiters and subjects of the discussion.
Like the recent hosting of the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies of a stimulating symposium on the current state of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) overseas, particularly in Japan.
Billed "Progressive Policymaking: Key to OFW's Welfare and Upliftment," the forum aimed to identify and formulate liberal, dynamic and innovative policies for the common good of OFWs.
The esteemed speakers all the way from the Philippines included Asst. Sec. Levinson Alcantara of the Department of Migrant Workers, Dr. Cielo Magno of the UP School of Economics and Atty Barry Gutierrez of the UP College of Law.
Meanwhile, the panelists were Prof. Wataru Kusaka of Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, Prof. Tamiki Hara of WIAPS-Waseda University, and Prof. Chiho Ogaya of Ferris University.
According to Menchie Mizuno of E-LMI (Engage Liwanag ng Masilaw), who spearheaded the talks, the ideas, experiences and insights of the speakers and panelists were mutually beneficial to them and the audience.
"The presentations of the speakerd and panelists were enlightening and inspiring, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. Their dedication is commendable, and we are grateful for the time and effort you invested in making our forum a success.
"We also want to express our appreciation to all the participants who actively engaged in discussions, and contributed to the vibrant exchange of ideas.
"Together, we have fostered a community committed to creating positive change. We look forward to continuing our journey of learning and collaboration in the future," Mizuno elaborated on her Facebook post.
Participant Palma Gil Florinda had expressed gratitude about the liberating thoughts of the speakers.
"I'm happy to know that the Department of Migrant Workers was not created to promote working abroad, but to support and protect Filipinos working abroad. Tama si Atty. Barry, hindi lahat ng nangingibang bansa ay para kumita ng pera. Kailangan may (He is right that not all who go abroad wants to earn money. What we need is a) good governance. At oo nga no, sabi ni (And yes, according to) Prof. Cielo, "we should not be begging to receive services but we should be demanding them," explained Florinda.
Meanwhile, Prof. Magno was just chosen as a new member of OGP (Open Government Partnership) Steering Committee.
She is the only Filipino in the illustrious roster of officers and primemovers of OGP, an international org where governments work with civil society to create action plans with concrete reforms.
Photo Credit: Menchie Mizuno/Facebook
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