SEN. Bong Go called on the government to intensify relief efforts for Filipinos in Venezuela who were affected by the magnitude 7.5 earthquake that hit the South American country on June 24.
The tremors, centered near the coastal area west of Caracas, close to Morón, caused casualties, injuries and infrastructure damage.
The senator urged the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to closely coordinate with the Philippine Embassy in Bogotá, which has jurisdiction over Venezuela, concerning relief operations.
“What is important for our compatriots abroad is that they know they can turn to someone when they need help. Information must be clear, coordination must be quick, and agencies must be ready to support them,” Go said.
“In this situation, what our countrymen need is proper information and help that is easily accessible. They should not have difficulty asking questions, seeking assistance or engaging with the government,” Go added.
The DFA earlier said that there were no Filipino casualties in the calamity, noting it was closely monitoring the situation through the Philippine Embassy in Bogotá.
It said Filipinos in Venezuela were advised to move to safer locations, stay alert for aftershocks, monitor updates from local authorities and follow official safety instructions.
The DFA estimates that around 74 Filipinos are residing in Venezuela, many of whom serve as religious missionaries.
As one of the authors and co-sponsors of Republic Act 11641, which created the DMW, Go underscored the agency’s mandate to safeguard the rights and welfare of Filipino migrant workers.
“Our OFWs (overseas Filipino workers) sacrifice for their families and contribute a lot to our country. There should be an agency that focuses on their needs and helps them in times of need,” Go said.
“For me, it’s simple. When there is a Filipino in need, anywhere in the world, there should be a government ready to listen, guide and help as much as possible,” he added.
