Celebrating the entrepreneurship potential of overseas Pinoys

It’s been a couple of weeks since I arrived in sunny San Francisco and I am cherishing this bonding time with my family. The Filipino community here is welcoming, as always, but in the past few days, there has been a bit of excited buzz. President Bongbong Marcos will be arriving to attend the APEC CEO Summit. This is an important event where the 21 member-states of APEC convene for extensive discussions concerning global opportunities and challenges that are currently shaping economic, environmental and societal trends within the region.

Along with the APEC CEO Summit comes the opportunity for the President to connect with the thriving Filipino communities in the United States. The President’s visit is not only important for diplomatic reasons but also because it provides a platform for overseas Pinoys to have their voices heard and share their unique perspectives on the situation back home.

Overseas Pinoys, OFWs (overseas Filipino workers) in particular, are the lifeblood of the Philippine economy. Pinoys can be found in every corner of the world; in fact, it never ceases to amaze me when I hear stories of Filipinos residing in far-flung regions, proudly representing their heritage and making a positive impact wherever they go. During my visits to San Francisco, I have had the privilege of meeting numerous Pinoys who thrived in their chosen fields. They are admired for their strong work ethic, determination and resilience.

The success of overseas Pinoys is a testament to the potential of the Filipino people. It is a reminder that the Philippines is blessed with talented individuals who, given the right opportunities and support, can make a significant impact on our economy and society. While they may have left their homeland in search of better opportunities, I am certain that they carry within them a deep-rooted love for their country and a desire to contribute to its progress.

The diaspora of Filipinos has enriched not just Filipino culture but also the common Filipino’s awareness and understanding of the world. Many Filipino families, I am sure, got acquainted with the Middle East because a relative was once, or still is, working there.

Beyond this infusion