PH consul general urges support for Filipino migrant workers’ rights

Consul General Cruz with current and former officers of Kalayaan Inc. | Photo by Bobby Crisostomo

LOS ANGELES — Philippine Consul General in Los Angeles Adelio Angelito S. Cruz used the annual Kalayaan Incorporated Ball celebrating the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence to remind Filipino Americans that all workers in the United States – including undocumented migrants – are entitled to minimum wage and workplace protections under the law.

Addressing more than 400 Filipino Americans, community leaders, elected officials and guests gathered at the Universal Hilton Hotel on June 13, Cruz encouraged the community to help inform undocumented kababayan of their rights and available resources against wage theft and labor exploitation.

Protection of Filipino workers’ rights

The Consul General’s message highlighted the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles’ longstanding partnership with the US Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD), which protects Filipino workers regardless of immigration status.

Parade of Philippine and US flags | Photo by Bobby Crisostomo

The collaboration is anchored on the Arrangement Establishing an Understanding (AEU), originally signed in 2019 and subsequently renewed to strengthen awareness of workplace rights among Filipinos in the US Southwest.

The agreement promotes access to education, training and information on labor protections under US law, including minimum wage and overtime requirements that apply regardless of a worker’s immigration status.

The Philippine Consulate General and the WHD renewed the AEU to continue assisting Filipino workers who may be vulnerable to wage theft and abusive labor practices.

“We have our work cut out for us. We want to thank the WHD for always being there to support us. We know how difficult it is working here, especially those who are still waiting for the adjustment of their status. They work so hard but they suffer in silence. Through the WHD, we are able to not just give back what they deserve in wages but it’s giving them back hope that we are there to help them and protect them,” Cruz said during the signing of the renewed agreement.

According to WHD Regional Administrator Ruben Rosalez, the arrangement helps continue efforts to assist Filipino workers who are victims of oppressive labor practices, regardless of their immigration status.

The labor-rights initiative traces its roots to a joint declaration between the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and the US Department of Labor aimed at improving Filipino workers’ awareness of workplace laws and protections.

Workers’ rights and Philippine independence

While emphasizing workers’ rights, Cruz also reflected on the significance of Philippine Independence Day and paid tribute to the nation’s heroes.

Consul General in Los Angeles Adelio Angelito S. Cruz | Photo by Bobby Crisostomo

Held under the theme “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.” (Freedom. Future. History.), the annual celebration commemorated the proclamation of Philippine independence on June 12, 1898, when General Emilio Aguinaldo declared the Philippines free from Spanish colonial rule in Kawit, Cavite.

“We remember the men and women who fought for the freedom we enjoy today,” Cruz said.

“As we mark this occasion, we call on Filipinos everywhere to carry their legacy forward by staying connected to our history and working together for a better future for the Philippines,” he added.

Cruz said the occasion serves as a reminder not only of the sacrifices made by the nation’s heroes but also of the continuing responsibility of Filipinos worldwide to preserve their heritage and contribute to nation-building.

Freedom lives ‘in every Filipino’

Serving as guest of honor, Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon Ana Carmela V. Remigio underscored the enduring relevance of independence and the important role of overseas Filipinos in strengthening the nation.

Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon Ana Carmela V. Remigio. | Photo by Bobby Crisostomo

“It is my honor to join the Filipino community in California as we commemorate the 128th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence,” Remigio said.

“One hundred twenty-eight years ago, our forebears declared that our nation was ready to stand before the world as a free people. Today, that freedom lives not only in our homeland, but in every Filipino and Filipina who carry our name with honor beyond our shores.”

Remigio said organizations such as Kalayaan Incorporated and the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles help ensure that Filipinos abroad remain connected to their history, identity and homeland.

“For a people scattered across the world, memory is a form of nation-building. Every time our children learn our history, every time our flag is raised with pride, every time Filipinos abroad succeed with integrity, our country is made stronger,” she said.

Remigio also recalled the recent earthquake that occurred while children were attending a flag-raising ceremony, expressing gratitude that no lives were lost and appealing for continued support for affected families.

“While the government continues to provide assistance and support in the wake of this disaster, we also know that the people of Kalayaan have always been defined by their compassion and willingness to help one another,” she said. “Any assistance will go a long way in helping our affected families recover and rebuild.”

80th anniversary of PH-US diplomatic relations

She noted that this year’s celebration coincides with the 80th anniversary of Philippines-United States diplomatic relations, describing the Filipino American community as one of the strongest bridges between the two nations.

“Through your service, industry, faith, and love of family, you show the best of the Filipino people,” Remigio said.

In a message marking the anniversary of Philippine Independence, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos around the world to draw inspiration from the nation’s heroes and work together in advancing the common good.

The President expressed hope that the observance would deepen Filipinos’ understanding of their history and inspire a renewed sense of duty to the country as the nation continues building a “Bagong Pilipinas worthy of the sacrifices that secured our sovereignty and of the dreams and aspirations that gave birth to our Republic.”

Cultural celebration

Organized by Kalayaan Incorporated in collaboration with the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, the event brought together members of the Filipino American community from across Southern California for an evening of cultural celebration, recognition and entertainment.

The program featured the introduction of Ginang Kalayaan 2026 May Dimabuyu, cultural performances by Kalayaan Incorporated performers Queenie Navarro and Thor Valiente, presentations by the Dalisay Filipino American Dance Company and performances by community volunteers and dancers.

Organizers said the annual celebration continues to honor the sacrifices of those who secured Philippine independence while strengthening cultural pride and unity among Filipinos across generations and borders.