Marcos cites CEPA as boost to PH-UAE ties

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday expressed optimism that the newly signed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates would strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

In his speech before the Filipino community in Abu Dhabi, Marcos said CEPA reflects the UAE’s recognition of the reputation Filipino workers have built in the Gulf state.

The agreement, he said, would open more opportunities for the Philippines and Filipinos by expanding trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.

“Ngayon po ay nasaksihan natin ang pagpirma ng CEPA—ang Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Ito po ay patunay ng mataas na pagpapahalaga ng UAE sa mga Pilipino,” Marcos said.

(“Today, we witnessed the signing of CEPA—the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. This is proof of the UAE’s high regard for Filipinos.”)

The President said Emirati officials have repeatedly expressed appreciation for Filipino workers, noting that they have received no complaints against Filipinos employed in the country.

Marcos said Filipinos played a key role in the UAE’s development.

“Sinasabi nga nila na kung hindi dahil sa mga Pilipinong tumulong sa pag-unlad ng UAE, hindi raw nila mararating ang kinalalagyan nila ngayon,” he said.

(“They even say that without the Filipinos who helped in the UAE’s development, they would not have reached where they are today.”)

According to the President, the UAE is home to one of the largest Filipino communities in the Middle East, with more than one million Filipinos currently living and working in the country. He said Filipinos have been contributing to the UAE economy since its early years in 1971.

The President reiterated the government’s commitment to overseas Filipino workers, whom he described as vital to nation-building.

“Ginagawa po ng ating pamahalaan ang lahat upang matiyak na kayo ay may sapat na benepisyo, proteksyon, at suporta,” he added.

(“Our government is doing everything to ensure that you have adequate benefits, protection, and support.”)

Marcos also urged Filipinos abroad to continue improving their skills amid rapid technological change.

“Kayo po ang pinagmumulan ng dangal at karangalan ng ating bansa,” he said. (“You are the source of our nation’s pride and honor.”)— MCG, GMA Integrated News