Overseas Filipinos Push December Remittance Pause to Send Political Message

Overseas Filipino groups are urging a temporary pause in remittances during the Christmas season as part of a coordinated pressure campaign they say is already producing visible economic and political impact.

The call was articulated by Mr. Ben Repol, OFW-DDS Global Leader based in Austria, who emphasized that padalaremains deeply important to Filipino families, especially during the holidays. However, he said the campaign is a calculated and time-bound action aimed at sending a stronger message to the country’s political leadership.

“Padala is important, especially this Christmas season, because it supports our families,” Repol said. “That is exactly why we are encouraging families to plan ahead and avoid the holiday rush. But at the same time, we must observe our campaign dates.”

Under the initiative, supporters are urged to refrain from sending remittances from December 18 to December 30, a period Repol described as critical in amplifying the campaign’s economic impact.

According to Repol, the temporary withdrawal of remittances is meant to apply pressure on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., whom he referred to as “Bangag,” amid growing frustration among overseas Filipinos over governance and economic direction.

“Our pressure is becoming effective and real,” Repol said. “The economy is being affected, support is being withdrawn, and the erosion of trust is now clearly felt.”

He stressed that the action is not intended to harm families but to demonstrate the influence of overseas Filipinos on the national economy. Remittances from OFWs remain one of the Philippines’ strongest economic pillars, particularly during peak seasons such as Christmas when inflows typically surge.

“This is not about abandoning our families,” Repol added. “This is about discipline, principle, and showing how much overseas Filipinos matter to the country.”

The campaign, backed by overseas Filipino networks in Europe, North America, and the Middle East, is expected to continue beyond the holidays through sustained advocacy and coordinated actions. Organizers say the goal is to translate collective economic influence into political accountability and meaningful change.