Binay seeks strong UN stance for migrant workers in Egypt

Vice President Jejomar Binay called on the United Nations Saturday to actively push for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Egypt and for the safety of migrant workers there, which include more than 6,000 Filipinos. Binay, who is President Benigno Aquino III’s adviser on overseas Filipino workers’ (OFW) concerns, issued the call from Washington D.C. where he is on an official mission. “The international community must take a more proactive stance particularly as lives of journalists and innocent civilians including tourists and foreign workers remain under threat as protest actions against the present leadership continue to escalate," a news release from Binay’s office quoted him as saying. Binay also expressed concern for the safety of OFWs and journalists in Egypt and called on the UN “to issue a strong statement calling for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in one of the most populous countries in Africa and the Middle East." He said the UN must raise its voice over the rising tide of deaths and injuries in Egypt as pro- and anti-Mubarak forces continue to fight each other. Many foreigners, including migrant workers, have found themselves trapped in areas wracked by political unrest. On the other hand, Binay lauded the Philippine Embassy in Cairo for reaching out to Filipinos staying in various cities of the country. “I am glad that the first batch of Filipinos who availed themselves of the government’s offer of voluntary repatriation is now on their way home. However, we must increase the level of vigilance and preparedness as the political conflict continues to unfold. We are all very much concerned over the safety of Filipinos still in Egypt," he said. “Right now, we need to extend full support to the team of Ambassador Ed Maglaya in Cairo, Egypt as they do their utmost to respond to the needs and concerns of our citizens there. Let us pray and continue to hope for a peaceful resolution to this conflict," he added. Binay called on families of Filipinos in Egypt to get in touch with the Department of Foreign Affairs for more updates regarding advisories from the Philippine Embassy.—With Jerrie M. Abella/JV, GMANews.TV