OFWs grieve on Ka Bel’s untimely death

Press Release
May 20, 2008

Overseas Workers grieve on Ka Bel’s untimely death;
Migrante to give tribute for his great works of advancing and protecting workers’ rights

“Ka Bel’s untimely death is a surprised to all Filipino workers, local and overseas. But he has left us legacies that will remain alive in our and fellow worker’s hearts and mind” said John Leonard Monterona, Migrante Middle East regional coordinator.

Monterona said that OFWs and Families are grieving on the untimely death of one of the most respected Labor leaders of his time, Anakpawis Representative Crispin “Ka Bel” Beltran. “We would like convey our condolences to his wife, family members and relatives,” he continued.

“Ka Bel is a genuine leader who himself came from the working class. His works and uncompromising stand defending workers rights and promotion of workers’ welfare is worthy of emulation by all Filipino workers, young and old, local and overseas, and even workers of other nationalities around the world,” Monterona added.

“I have been working with Ka Bel in a short time in Congress when he first became Anakpawis Representative and I treasure those days working with a genuine worker’s advocate and leader. I am deeply honored to be part of his legislative team as Consultant for Migrant Workers affairs though for a short time,’ Monterona tearfully recalled.

Migrante’s Monterona said that his group, fellow OFWs and families are very thankful with Ka Bel, who side-by-side working with Congressman Roseller Barinaga who then chairs the House Committee on Labor and Employment, consistently supported Overseas workers by filling several resolutions for the protection and welfare of Overseas Filipino workers and their families, in general; and has pushed for the creation of a special House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs.

“His untimely death is a loss to the working class and the workers movement. But his works and legacies lives on the working class who are ever willing to follow the same path he has chosen,” Monterona said.

Migrante chapters in the Middle East will be having a special gathering to give tribute and planning to sponsor a Mass in the homeland for Ka Bel.

“Migrante, OFWs and families is giving the highest tribute to Ka Bel elevating him to the status such of Gat Andres Bonificio, the great plebeian of his time,” Monterona ended.

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References:
John Leonard Monterona
regional coordinator
Migrante Middle East
Mobile No.: 00966 564 97 8012