MANILA, Philippines – Kinondena ni Senatorial candidate Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan nitong Biyernes, Marso 28 ang panukala na alisin ang mga tax privilege para sa mga overseas Filipino workers.
Aniya, ang hakbang na ito ay “wrong and deeply unjust.”
“OFWs are the backbone of our economy. Their hard work and sacrifices, often made at the cost of being away from their loved ones, contribute significantly to keeping the Philippine economy afloat,” pahayag ni Pangilinan.
“To threaten them with the removal of their hard-earned privileges simply for exercising their right to free expression is wrong and deeply unjust.”
Ang pahayag nito ay kasunod ng banta ng mga tagasuporta ni dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na “zero remittance week” bilang protesta sa pagkakakulong ng dating Pangulo sa The Hague.
Nagbabala naman si Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Juan Ponce Enrile na ang aksyon na ito ay maaaring magdulot ng epekto, at sinabing maaaring ikonsidera ng Kongreso ang pagsuspinde sa tax privileges sa mga OFW bilang tugon dito.
Hinimok ni Pangilinan ang pamahalaan na harapin ang isyu nang may “fairness and sensitivity,” at sinabing ang free expression ay mahalaga sa demokrasya.
“Rather than discouraging discussions, we should welcome the perspectives of our OFWs, as they offer valuable insights into the realities faced by millions of Filipinos abroad. Their voices should be heard, not silenced,” aniya.
“Their experiences and perspectives offer valuable insights into the realities faced by millions of Filipinos abroad,” dagdag pa ni Pangilinan.
“It is through dialogue and understanding—not threats—that we can build a better future for our people.”
Samantala, sinabi ni Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro na walang nakikitang dahilan ang Malakanyang para maghain ng reklamo laban sa mga nasa likod ng planong “zero remittance week.” RNT/JGC
