Filipino OFWs Launch Remittance Boycott Against Marcos

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) have launched a one-week remittance strike to protest the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. The campaign continues to gain traction across Facebook, TikTok, and X. Protesters unite under hashtags like #NoRemitForDuterte, #OFWStrike, and #StandWithDuterte.

Organisers accuse President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. of political persecution. They claim he used the Duterte family’s popularity to win the 2022 election. Then, he abandoned and targeted them to secure his grip on power. Supporters view this as a betrayal of public trust.

OFWs are calling for a temporary halt on all remittance to the Philippines. In 2023, they remitted over USD 36 billion. That figure accounts for close to 10% of the country’s GDP. After all, remittances support food, education, rent, medicine, and daily essentials. They serve as a lifeline for millions of Filipino families.

Roughly 1.96 million Filipinos are officially working abroad, based on recent government data. Unofficial estimates place the true number above 10 million, including permanent residents and undocumented workers. Overall, this vast global diaspora represents a major social and economic force.

Protests not limited to overseas Filipino remittance

Furthermore, the protests are not limited to overseas workers. Rallies have erupted in Davao, Cebu, and even parts of Metro Manila. Marchers carry signs demanding Duterte’s release. Many also call for Marcos to step down.

OFWs from the Middle East, North America, and Southeast Asia have joined the movement. Some post videos tearing up remittance receipts. Others record messages urging fellow Filipinos to resist political abuse.

Public anger intensified last month when Marcos snubbed the People Power anniversary. Critics say his absence signals disrespect for the democratic movement that ended his father’s dictatorship.

Economists warn the remittance strike may temporarily weaken the peso and disrupt cash flow in rural areas. Yet, protesters insist this is a necessary sacrifice. They want justice, not just for Duterte, but for every voter betrayed by Marcos.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro acknowledged the concerns behind the campaign but emphasized the importance of upholding the law. She noted that complaints have been formally filed against former President Duterte and urged the public to consider both sides fairly. Castro also warned that withholding remittances could adversely affect the families of OFWs who rely on this financial support.

However, Filipinos at home and abroad now speak as one — against betrayal, and for democracy.