Senator Christopher “Bong” Go was invited to attend the National Day reception of Japan on Thursday evening, February 20, in Taguig City, celebrating the 65th birthday of Emperor Naruhito. Hosted by Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Enzo Kazuya, the event brought together government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives from various sectors to honor the Japanese Emperor and reaffirm the deep-rooted ties between the Philippines and Japan.
Go, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, emphasized the significance of strengthening diplomatic relations, particularly in ensuring the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) residing in Japan.
“Alam naman nating maraming Pilipino ang nasa Japan ngayon, nagtatrabaho para sa pamilya nila dito sa Pilipinas,” Go said. “Kaya mahalaga na patuloy nating palakasin ang ugnayan natin sa Japan para matiyak na may sapat na proteksyon at suporta ang ating mga kababayan.”
Japan remains one of the top destinations for OFWs, with thousands employed in caregiving, healthcare, construction, and technology sectors. Go, who has long advocated for OFW rights and welfare, stressed the need for policies that protect and support Filipinos working abroad.
As one of the authors and co-sponsors of Republic Act No. 11641, which established the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Go highlighted the agency’s role in consolidating government services for OFWs and ensuring more efficient responses to their concerns.
“Hindi biro ang buhay ng isang OFW. Iniwan nila ang pamilya nila para magtrabaho sa ibang bansa. Bilang mambabatas, tungkulin natin na gawing mas madali para sa kanila ang pag-access sa serbisyo ng gobyerno—mula sa pag-aasikaso ng papeles hanggang sa tulong kung sakaling may emergency,” he added.
The Philippines and Japan have long maintained strong diplomatic and economic relations, with Japan being a key partner in trade, infrastructure, and disaster resilience efforts. Go expressed optimism that both nations will continue fostering collaboration, especially in areas that directly benefit Filipinos.
The senator’s presence at the event came amid growing support from the Filipino community in Japan. Over the past weeks, Go Bong Go Global Filipinos, Mr. Malasakit Movement, and Republic Defenders for Peace and Unity have organized gatherings in Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, rallying nearly 500 OFWs and Filipino residents who expressed their strong support for Go’s advocacies. The events featured cultural performances, testimonials, and engagement activities that underscored Go’s growing influence among OFWs ahead of the upcoming elections.
During the Osaka gathering, Go addressed his supporters through a video message, expressing gratitude for their sacrifices and reaffirming his commitment to championing their welfare.
“Napakalaki ng ambag ng ating mga OFWs sa bayan, kaya obligasyon ng gobyerno na tiyaking protektado at may sapat na serbisyo kayo,” he said. “Hindi ko kayo bibiguin sa laban para sa mas mabilis, mas abot-kayang serbisyo para sa bawat Pilipino, saan man kayo naroroon.”
During the reception in Taguig City where Go joined Senate President Francis Escudero in representing the Senate, Japanese officials reaffirmed their country’s commitment to further enhancing bilateral cooperation.
Go also acknowledged Japan’s support for Philippine initiatives, including humanitarian aid, disaster relief efforts, and infrastructure investments.
“Malaki ang naitutulong ng Japan sa atin, mula sa transport projects hanggang sa disaster response,” Go said. “Pero higit sa lahat, ang mas mahalaga sa akin ay ang kapakanan ng ating mga kababayang Pilipino sa Japan. Kailangang siguruhin natin na hindi sila napapabayaan.”
