Sara Duterte underscores Middle East OFWs’ sacrifices on Holy Week

As Catholics observe this year’s Holy Week, Vice President Sara Duterte underscored the sacrifices made by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East amid the heightened tensions in the region. 

Duterte said that the Holy Week is a time to reflect on the Lord's great sacrifice, reminding people that the true meaning of life is found in service to others.

“Kinikilala natin ang sakripisyo ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na ang ating mga OFWs sa Middle East. Sa gitna ng kaguluhan, hinihiling natin ang kanilang kaligtasan. Sila ay mga buhay na halimbawa ng sakripisyo, at hinihiling natin ang kapayapaan sa kanilang kinalalagyan,” the Vice President said in a video message posted Monday.

(We recognize the sacrifice of our countrymen, especially our OFWs in the Middle East. We pray for their safety amid the chaos. They are living examples of sacrifice, and we ask for peace in the areas where they are.) 

She also said that the silence that comes with the Holy Week allows people to reexamine their aspirations, may it be for themselves, their families, or the country.

“Sa panahong ito ng Kwaresma, isapuso natin ang kapakanan ng ating bansa. Idalangin natin ang isang lipunang pinatatakbo ng katotohanan, katarungan, at tapat na malasakit,” Duterte said.

(This Holy Week, let us take the welfare of our nation to heart. Let us pray for a society run by truth, justice, and real care for the people.) 

“Nawa'y magsilbing inspirasyon ang aral ng sakripisyo ni Hesus upang tayo ay magkaisa para sa isang matatag at maunlad na Pilipinas,” she added. 

(May the lesson of Jesus' sacrifice serve as inspiration so that we can unite for a strong and prosperous Philippines.) —AOL, GMA Integrated News