First Migrant Workers' Day Celebrated with Palarong Pinoy at the Philippine Embassy

Unforgettable gathering for OFWs in Japan

Migrant workers play a significant role in the global economy, leaving their homes and families to seek better opportunities in foreign countries. Recognizing their contributions and providing them with a sense of community and appreciation is essential. In this spirit, on June 24th, 2023 at the 3rd floor extension of the Philippine Embassy in Shibuya became the vibrant venue for the first-ever Migrant Workers' Day event, featuring the exciting "Palarong Pinoy." Sponsored and organized by OWWA-MWO Tokyo, this event aimed to honor the significant contributions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Japan. The festivities brought together OFWs from Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, and Hokkaido, fostering camaraderie, fun, and a deep sense of cultural pride.

Labor Attaché Ramon Lamberto C. Pastrana (6th from left) with the sponsors and representatives Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

A Celebration of Filipino Heritage

Palarong Pinoy was a delightful gathering that showcased the rich Filipino culture and traditional games. Participants enthusiastically took part in various classic Filipino games such as sungka, jackstone, pickup sticks, and pukpok palayok, and much more. These games, deeply rooted in Filipino heritage, served as a reminder of the participants' shared background and helped create a sense of camaraderie among them.

Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

Friendly Competition and Prizes

To add an element of friendly competition, participants were divided into teams and competed for the coveted cash prizes. The winning team was awarded a generous cash prize of 50,000 yen, while the second and third-place teams received 30,000 yen and 20,000 yen, respectively. Even the fourth-place team was recognized and rewarded with a cash prize of 15,000 yen. These prizes not only added excitement to the event but also served as an acknowledgment of the participants' skills and efforts.

Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

A Taste of Home

No celebration of Filipino culture would be complete without indulging in its delectable cuisine. During the event, attendees were treated to a wide array of Filipino foods, including snacks, which delighted their taste buds and provided a taste of home. The aroma of traditional dishes wafted through the air, evoking memories of shared meals with loved ones and adding a touch of familiarity to the event.

Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

A Step Towards an Annual Tradition

The First Migrant Workers' Day - Palarong Pinoy event was a truly special moment for OFWs in Japan. It provided them with an opportunity to celebrate their culture, strengthen their bonds with fellow Filipinos, and alleviate the challenges of being away from home. The event organizers, sponsors, and participants were hopeful that this celebration would become an annual tradition, benefitting future generations of OFWs who would continue to work tirelessly for the betterment of their families and communities.

Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

Honoring Overseas Filipino Workers

The notable presence of esteemed officials further highlighted the significance of the First Migrant Workers' Day celebration. Labor Attaché Ramon Lamberto C. Pastrana, Assistant Labor Attaché Barwin Scott Villordon, and Welfare Officer Geronico Herrera graced the event with their presence, expressing their support and recognition for the hardworking Overseas Filipino Workers in Japan. Their attendance added an air of official importance to the occasion, affirming the government's commitment to the welfare and well-being of OFWs. As they mingled with the attendees, they not only witnessed the camaraderie and cultural pride on display but also had the chance to interact with the vibrant Filipino community, further strengthening the bonds between the Philippine embassy and its valued citizens in Japan.

Labor Attaché Ramon Lamberto C. Pastrana (center), Assistant Labor Attaché Barwin Scott Villordon (left), and Welfare Officer Geronico Herrera (right) Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

The significance of events like the First Migrant Workers' Day extends beyond just a single day of festivities. They serve as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and appreciating the contributions of migrant workers in Japan. By coming together to celebrate their shared culture, achievements, and talents, these events promote inclusivity, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging among migrant communities.

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Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

As the First Migrant Workers' Day ended, participants left with cherished memories, new friendships, and a renewed sense of pride in their Filipino heritage. Their hope for the future is that events like Palarong Pinoy will continue to flourish and provide a platform for the celebration of Filipino culture as well as fostering unity among migrant communities in Japan.

Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

Source: OWWA-MWO Tokyo

 Special thanks to Ma Theresa Tagle Yasuki of CYM International Language Center for her assistance while writing this article. 

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