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PH Serbisyo Caravan organized for OFWs in Italy
ROME, Italy — The Philippine government organized here the "Bagong Bayani ng Mundo: Serbisyo Caravan" to provide services for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), highlighted by a launch event attended by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and senior Cabinet officials.
The Serbisyo Caravan is a major initiative led by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in partnership with 11 other government agencies.
Aside from the First Lady, Philippine officials at the launch event on October 12, Sunday, included DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator PY Cayanan, Senator Erwin Tulfo, and Agimat party-list Representative Bryan Revilla, who chairs the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs.
The multi-day Serbisyo Caravan brought in key government services directly to Filipinos in Italy, making access to assistance and documentation faster, easier, and more convenient.
According to Cacdac, "The President has instructed us to serve our OFWs with deeper dedication under the spirit of love for our country. That is why we brought 11 government agencies here to Italy to personally deliver services to our kababayans. We also thank Cardinal Luis Tagle for leading the Holy Mass, which symbolizes our shared love for God."
The Serbisyo Caravan served as a one-stop shop where Filipinos could register or update their membership with OWWA, SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG, and apply for a National ID through the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
A Presidential Help Desk was also set up to receive concerns and grievances from OFWs and their families.
New reintegration programs were also introduced to support returning OFWs as they transition back to life in the Philippines.
Gov't services for OFWs
Several Filipinos in Rome expressed their appreciation for the caravan initiative, saying it made access various government services easier and completed within just a few days.
Among them was Maricel Bihis, a 30-year resident of Italy and long-time OWWA member, who was able to secure her OWWA e-Card, apply for a National ID, and update her SSS membership during the event.
Cindy Sison, who has been working in Italy for 19 years, was also pleased with the process.
"The line was quite long, but it was worth it because of all the benefits that come with the e-Card," she said.
Meanwhile, Alvin Umahon proudly showed his new OWWA e-Card while lining up for his National ID registration.
The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to bring essential services closer to OFWs and to demonstrate its continued support and appreciation for their sacrifices and contributions to the nation.
Filipino community
In an interview, Congressman Bryan Revilla, Chairman of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, praised the Filipino community's strong cooperation and desire to upgrade their skills.
"From their previous jobs in cleaning, they have now become caregivers and even have opportunities to work in hospitals. This is a good example of how Filipinos are helping each other," Revilla said.
The first day of the Serbisyo Caravan also featured a consultation with community leaders, where government representatives and Filipino community leaders discussed issues, clarified concerns, and exchanged suggestions to further improve the delivery of services for OFWs in Rome.
The program also honored selected Filipino workers who exemplified hard work, dedication, and excellence as the true "Bagong Bayani ng Mundo (New Heroes of the World)." The awardees received Certificates of Recognition from the DMW.
The Bagong Bayani ng Mundo: Serbisyo Caravan formed part of the "Sama sa Roma" event, held in celebration of the Jubilee Year 2025, which gathered Filipinos from around the world to celebrate their faith, unity, and rich Filipino culture in Rome.
Handcrafted token
For 19-year-old Jille Lu Padua, a young Filipino student based in Italy, what started as a simple hobby inspired by her grandmother became a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—creating a special handmade token for the First Lady during her visit to Rome.
When Jille learned that she would be preparing a token for the First Lady, she was both surprised and deeply honored.
"I didn't expect it at all," she shared. "I felt very honored and grateful for this opportunity."
Jille designed and handcrafted a simple yet elegant silver crochet bag, complemented by a small flower keychain—her personal signature symbol.
Her choice of design carried a special meaning for Jille: "I chose to make this bag because it represents our First Lady—simple yet elegant."
She was able to personally present the token as Araneta-Marcos began visiting each booth to meet members of the Filipino community, making the moment even more special and memorable.
The First Lady was pleasantly surprised by the gesture and delighted by the thoughtfulness of the handmade token.
"She didn't expect to receive something, and she was very happy with it," Jille said proudly.
Inspired by lola
Jille's passion for crochet began in 2021, inspired by her grandmother. Watching her create by hand sparked a love for the craft that grew stronger over time. She began by making small stuffed toys, later moving on to tops and handbags.
"I've always been the kind of person who wants to learn new things," she explained. "That's why I kept pushing myself to create more and improve."
Recently, Jille started selling her crochet pieces, and her small business has been steadily growing. What started with one or two orders has now expanded to include requests for custom bags, Christmas ornaments, and birthday decorations.
"I'm very happy that people appreciate what I do and support my work," she said with a smile.
Through her creativity and craftsmanship, Jille not only showcased her artistic talent but also embodied the resilience, pride, and passion of young Filipinos abroad—weaving love and meaning into every stitch. — VDV, GMA Integrated News
