Several Senators express their deepest grief over the passing of Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Susan 'Toots' Ople on Tuesday, August 22.
In a statement, Senator Risa Hontiveros said they were saddened on the untimely passing of Ople, a true public servant and ally who "dedicated herself wholeheartedly" to the welfare and well-being of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW).
"Her work extended far beyond the call of duty, as she tirelessly advocated for fair labor practices, better working conditions, and the protection of the rights of OFWs," she underlined.
Hontiveros looked back on the significant efforts that the late DMW Secretary made to combat modern slavery such as human trafficking and abuse.
"As we bid farewell to a remarkable individual, a steadfast advocate, and a dear ally, may her legacy continue to guide us in our efforts to ensure that the rights and dignity of overseas Filipinos are respected," she said.
In a separate statement, Senate President Juan Miguel 'Migz' Zubiri said he joined the country in mourning.
He described Ople as a "dedicated public servant with a huge heart" for Filipinos.
"She showed us that true leadership is about kindness and compassion, dedicating her life and career to the least privileged and the least heard," Zubiri said.
The Senate President said they will continue to protect and uplift OFWs and laborers in honor of Ople.
"We send our love and prayers to the Ople family in this difficult time," he said.
Senator Aquilino 'Koko' Pimentel III also extended his deepest condolences to the DMW Secretary's family, friends, and colleagues, and said that the latter's passing was a "great loss" to the country.
"During her tenure as Secretary, Toots demonstrated unwavering commitment. She did not waste a day to organize and establish the newly created Department of Migrant Workers. Under her tenure, DMW is truly the home of overseas Filipinos," he said in a statement.
Pimentel remarked that the legacy of his colleague and friend Ople will live on.
