By: Edwin Pastorfide
On October 25, 2025, the Diocese of Antipolo, through its Commission on Migrants, Seafarers, and Itinerant People (DACMI), hosted a powerful celebration of the Jubilee of Migrants at the Baras Gymnasium in Baras, Rizal.
This celebration paid tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and enduring contributions of Filipino migrants—our Bagong Bayani. More than a celebration, it was a call to action: to uplift migrant families through livelihood opportunities, employment support, and spiritual renewal.
Highlights of the Celebration
- Job Fair connecting migrants and families to employment pathways
- Trade Fair featuring locally made products by OFW families
- Plenary Sessions offering expert insights on migration, rights, and reintegration
- Cultural Presentations showcasing the richness of Filipino heritage
- Testimonies from migrants and families sharing stories of resilience and hope
- Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Most Rev. Fr. Ruperto Santos, honoring the migrant journey
- Ceremonial Signing of Memorandum of Partnership Agreement (MoPA) launching the Diocese of Antipolo Cluster Against Human Trafficking, with directors from Migrants, MSAHDC, FLA, BEC, PYM, and Catechetical Ministries
Plenary Topics and Speakers:
- Faith, Hope & Migration
Fr. Roger Manalo, Executive Director, CBCP-ECMI - Migrants’ Rights & Dignity
Ms. Elene Sanna, Executive Director, Center for Migrants Advocacy - Economic Justice & Reintegration
Atty. Marilou Reyes, Director, OWWA - The Role of DMW in Building a Future for Land-Based Migrants and Their Families
Venecio Legaspi, Assistant Secretary, DMW for Land-Based OFW Concerns
This Jubilee reaffirmed the Church’s mission to walk with migrants and their families—across borders and seasons—with compassion, purpose, and unwavering hope.
