By Prof. Jose Maria Sison
Chairperson
International League of Peoples’ Struggle
17 December 2011

It is my honor and pleasure to accept the Gawad Migrante.  I appreciate that the moral and political support that I have extended to Migrante International since its founding and to the just cause of migrant workers has been deemed meritorious enough for me to receive this distinguished award.

I have been inspired by the struggles and successes of Migrante International and  its member-organizations.  And I am now  encouraged by the award to render further service to Migrante International and to the migrant workers in whatever way that I am capable of.

I express my best wishes for Migrante International and all its member-organizations to win still  greater victories in upholding, defending and promoting the rights and interests of the migrant workers and in fighting for a new Philippines that is truly independent, democratic, social just and progressive in all respects.

We all want a Philippines that pursues economic development through land reform and national industrialization so that millions of our people do not have to seek employment abroad and can stay in the country with their families and participate in the development of their own country.

Thank you.