Migrant Workers’ Day Celebrated in Turkey with Spiritual Talk

Overseas Filipino Workers in Turkey listen to the talk of Fr. Jean Marc Balhan of Meryem Ana Catholic Church in Ankara at the Embassy. (Ankara PE photo)

ANKARA 13 June 2018 — The Philippine Embassy in Ankara commemorated Migrant Workers’ Day, celebrated each year on 07 June, with a two-day event highlighted by the inspirational talk for overseas Filipino workers in Turkey by Fr. Jean Marc Balhan, SJ, on 06-07 June 2018.

According to Ambassador to Turkey Maria Rowena M. Sanchez, the event held at the Embassy’s premises was highly appreciated by the Filipino migrant workers present, including those newly arrived in Turkey as well as OFWs based outside Ankara such as Bursa, located 388 kilometers away.

The inspiration talk entitled “Discerning: What is Happening in Us?” underscored the value of every worker's spiritual and emotional well-being to deal with the challenges living and working in a foreign country.

Fr. Balhan highlighted the migrant workers' plight of being away from their families and their need to be reassured despite the different work environment.

OFWs were encouraged to be conscious of the "movements within" and the feelings of joy or ill-will, with emphasis on the importance of recognizing these movements or feelings and in working towards striving a balance. A Holy Mass and salu-salo capped the occasion.

The event, which gathered 30 OFWs in Turkey, provided the participants with the opportunity to learn more about the Embassy’s services, regular Filipino community activities, and persons or places to seek guidance from in times of need. END

For more information, visit www.ankarape.dfa.gov.ph  or https://www.facebook.com/PHinTurkey