OFWs cancel gong- playing, parade to honor Rep Dalog

By Gabriel Moguet

SABANGAN, Mountain Province -- In deference to the untimely demise of the late Rep. Maximo B. Dalog, the municipal government here hosting Migrants’ Day cancelled the parade and playing of gongs which is always a part of every celebration in the community.  

The late congressman who died June 3 is due to be buried in his hometown in Bila, Bauko town on Tuesday.

Overseas Worker Welfare Administration regional director Evelyn C. Laranang, guest speaker, before explaining programs of OWWA, conveyed her condolence sympathizing with the people of Mountain Province for losing a good leader.

One of their programs she mentioned was “Balik Mangagawa Program” which intends to assist former OFWs to put up small business as source of living.

The event was attended by around 300 former OFWs and OFW families. 

Brigitte C. Mangay-at, of Municipal Social Welfare Office, pledged their support and cited programs for them to avail. “You can also avail of our expertise in preparing project proposals and minutes of meeting preparations and even organization’s constitution and by-laws,” Mangay-at said.

DTI provincial director, Juliet P. Lucas related her personal experience with OFWs when she was then travelling abroad.

She described these as very unforgettable and emotional because she met different  situations  -- some good but mostly are bad.

She announced their latest program, the Go Negosyo Program, suitable for former OFWs and OFW families they are intending to pilot in Sabangan.

Provincial DOLE officer Samuel L. Lasdacan, urged former OFWs and OFW families to organize themselves and register with DOLE and have their organizations accredited in the Sangguniang Bayan so that they can easily avail of DOLE’s livelihood programs and with local government. 

He said a special program for the employment of students was also in effect.

Sangguniang Bayan member Dario Esden said their office is always open to accrediting their registered organizations but cannot promise funds for them.