Eight Filipina workers in Dammam are spearheading a campaign to raise money to fund the needs of distressed Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). They are also aiming to be crowned the ‘queen' of their community. The campaign was launched last Thursday evening during the monthly gathering of the Filipino Overseas Workers Association (FOWA), which is supporting the fund drive. FOWA is an organization that is mostly composed of workers in the service industry. Present during the launching was Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) welfare officer Rolando Coquia. The eight Filipina workers are Teresita Castro, Dolores Ri?o, Babylinda Villaruel, Nelia Bacladan, Rita Villasin, Flor Talatad, Liza Cubillan, and Olive Castillo. All are employed either as beauticians and dressmakers. “Many of my compatriots who work in the service industry, like me, are victims of abuse; the money we will be able to raise will help those who are in need in times of crisis,” said Teresita Castro, a beautician. For Flor Talatad, a dressmaker and beautician, soliciting money could be a daunting task. “It is difficult this time to ask people to share because most have financial obligations to meet. But there are many, like my group, who still could contribute in a small way we can,” she said. During the launch, many members of FOWA have pledged their support. “We are backing the eight ladies; by supporting them we are also helping Filipinos who are in trouble with their employers, those who are waiting to be deported, those who need to buy air ticket but cannot afford,” said Frankie Nicolas, vice president of FOWA and one of the founders of the association. Dr. Allan Notarion, president of FOWA, said the association is coordinating its activities, including its support to the fund drive of the eight Filipinas, with the POLO. “We are encouraged with the support of our officials; we also thank our members who are 100 percent behind us.” A brother Muslim, who is a member of FOWA, has been single-handedly raising money to buy ticket for a Filipina who is presently detained at the Social Welfare Center in Dammam and waiting for deportation. “Many are in need of financial support, to buy air tickets, among other things,” he said. “Which is why fund drive like this must be supported,” he added. Another member of FOWA has been monitoring the welfare of detained Filipinos. He has gone in his own way of seeking the help of Saudi authorities to ease the condition of those held while waiting to be repatriated. “It is an encouraging community effort to help those in need, which is why these eight Filipina workers must be endorsed by all,” said Ven Macatunggal, a community leader and an official of FOWA. After the culmination of the fund drive, the Filipino community will honor the eight Filipinas. The one who will be able to raise the highest amount will be crowned the FOWA Queen 2008. Other top grossers in the fund drive will also receive awards and certificate of appreciations. __
