MUSCAT: The Filipino presence in Oman holds significant and multifaceted importance, actively contributing to the strengthening of economic, social, and cultural ties between the two countries.
This presence enhances opportunities for bilateral cooperation across various fields.
Filipino labour constitutes an important part of the workforce in Oman, with many Filipinos excelling in diverse sectors.
Known for their high skills and discipline, Filipino workers boost productivity and quality in their workplaces.
Raul Hernandez, the Ambassador of the Philippines to the Sultanate of Oman, highlighted this in his speech on the occasion of the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence: “Today, we have over 50,000 Filipinos in the Sultanate of Oman. Some of them are with families; most are pursuing careers as doctors, nurses, engineers, architects, and professors; in retail, trade, and hospitality; and in household service work. Our people are present in many industries in Oman, where they are supported, valued, and cherished for their contributions to the development of this country while supporting their families in the Philippines and its economy.”
He added, “Our people are the friendliest — one of the many things we share with the Omanis. Our talented young population, marked by world-class hospitality, competitive education and training, and determination to succeed, makes the Philippines an ideal place to grow businesses.”
Raul also expressed his gratitude, stating, “Our sincere gratitude goes to the Government of Oman for extending much-needed support and assistance to the Philippine Embassy’s attached agencies, our Migrant Workers Office, and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, who work 24/7 to promote and protect the interests and welfare of our Filipino workers in Oman. This support benefits Omani businesses and families and further strengthens the bond between Oman and the Philippines.”
He pointed out that "the Philippines finished strong in 2023 with a full-year gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate of 5.6 per cent, outpacing major economies in Asia.
In the first quarter of 2024, the Philippine economy was once again a frontrunner in the Asean region, posting the highest growth of 5.7 per cent."
Last year, the Philippines’ full-year total exports of goods and services reached $103.6 billion, marking a 4.8 per cent increase from 2022.
This growth was driven by the strong performance of the information technology and business process management sectors and a turnaround in tourism revenues.
Regarding Philippine products, he stated, “Our electronic products remain our strongest export commodity, supporting technology-related initiatives worldwide. Our delicious bananas, pineapples, and mangoes are sought after all around the world.”
Raul emphasised, “Under the leadership of President Marcos, our government has been streamlining processes to make it easier for businesses to set up and thrive in the Philippines. Our business climate remains conducive, backed by strong laws and regulations to incentivise investments across various fields, supporting investors, stakeholders, and our 110 million consumers. This is indeed the best time to invest in the Philippines.”
On tourism, he noted, “A significant number of tourists from Oman visited the Philippines in 2023. With the support of our partners in Oman Air, Gulf Air, Emirates, and Etihad Airways, making travel more accessible and affordable to a wider range of people, we are confident of increased tourist arrivals in the coming years.”
“The Philippines is your next destination in Southeast Asia. Our 7,641 islands present endless possibilities for leisure, business, or even a nice cool afternoon in Baguio City, the Summer Capital of the Philippines. You may have also heard of Boracay, awarded as one of the best islands in the world; Palawan, home to the underground river, a Unesco World Heritage Site; Bohol, where you will find thousands of ‘chocolate hills’; and our capital, vibrant Manila, the beating heart of our robust economy,” he added.
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