We are known to be hardworking and this applies especially to overseas Filipinos who are providing for their families back home. With COVID-19 affecting the entire world, many continue to work even harder, not just to earn for their loved ones but to also help their host country stay afloat during the pandemic.
According to the Philippine Embassy in Singapore, there are an estimated 200,000 Filipinos living and working there. Every day, they continue to work to build a better future for their family and contribute to Singapore’s economic development.
Meet five Filipinos who are helping Singapore’s COVID-19 response and bringing pride to the Philippines:
Joshua Suarez
With many flights canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Joshua Suarez, a cabin crew at Scoot, has been redeployed to work at the community center, where he helps with mask distribution and financial aid applications for the residents.
Carlito Cinco
Carlito Cinco has been working in Singapore for over a decade now. Presently assigned as a butler at the five-star Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore, he warmly welcomes returning Singaporeans back home, assisting them on a seamless check-in process and ensuring that they have a comfortable stay even during these unusual times.
Joan Valerio
Joan Valerio, Reservations Executive at the PARKROYAL on Kitchener Road, assists in providing accommodations to stranded foreigners in Singapore. As an OFW, she has had to momentarily leave her two kids behind – both of whom are understanding and proud of all her sacrifices.
Cirilo Lemoneras
Cirilo Lemoneras, an e-commerce executive at Viharbour, handles product marketing online. He continuously renders his work to enable people to purchase goods online, a safer alternative to going out during these times.
KC Oyco
KC Oyco, who works as a pharmacy technician at the Changi General Hospital remains fully dedicated to providing the prescribed medicines needed by patients, knowing that these bring not only better health but can also save lives.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has launched a video titled, We Salute You, to pay tribute to the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have been working courageously alongside Singaporeans, to help keep Singapore running during COVID-19.
Recognizing the difficulty that OFWs feel while separated from their families, the video features five Filipino unsung heroes who have been contributing to Singapore’s COVID-19 response. The video also features heartfelt messages from their families back home, sending them strength and words of encouragement.
At once moving and uplifting, We Salute You reminds us that no matter where they are in the world, OFWs continue to be a source of pride and inspiration for those back home in the Philippines. Thus, the Singapore Tourism Board acknowledges and honors their efforts with the following message in the video, “Saludo kami sa galing niyo [We salute you for your expertise and dedication].”
This story is in partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board. For more information, visit the website. Photos provided by the Singapore Tourism Board.