By Veronica Uy
The Czech Republic takes another significant stride in fostering stronger ties with the Philippines as it announces a substantial increase in the quota for Filipino migrant workers.
“[We are] implementing a new quota for Filipino migrant workers seeking opportunities in the Czech Republic four times higher than last year—from 2.500 workers in 2023 to 10.500 in 2024,” Ambassador Karel Hejč said at the recent THEPHILBIZNEWS’s Embassy Night Year 3 in Hotel Okura Manila.
Aimed at providing more opportunities for Filipinos seeking employment abroad, this quota increase underscores the deepening economic cooperation and mutual trust between the two nations. It also reflects the growing demand for Filipino talent and expertise in the Czech Republic.
Ambassador Hejč thanked THEPHILBIZNEWS for providing a platform to announce this and other significant developments in the Czech-Philippine relations.
“So far, it has been a ‘wild ride’ but a joyful ride that kept us busy and The Philippine Business and News was with us all along the way. Congratulations again and keep up the high standards of your mission!” he told an audience of diplomats, business leaders, and media practitioners.
Czech Republic’s top diplomat in the Philippines said the decision to raise the quota comes amidst a series of bilateral engagements and initiatives aimed at enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries. He mentioned the recent high-level visits, including the historic visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise to Prague, which have paved the way for increased collaboration in various sectors.
In addition to the expansion of the migrant worker quota, Ambassador Hejč said the Czech Embassy in Manila is undergoing major reconstruction and expansion. He said this includes the opening of a new office of CzechTrade, a state agency dedicated to promoting business-to-business relations between Czech and Filipino partners.
The Czech Republic also recognizes the Philippines as a vital partner in environment, defense, and trade.
“In the pipeline for 2024, so far, are the Joint Economic Commission in Manila in July with focus on environment, water management and treatment, and waste management; Joint Commission on Defense and Security in Manila in September; and a working visit of the Speaker of the House of the Parliament of the Czech Republic Mrs. Markéta Pekarová-Adamová with a business delegation, probably in October,” Ambassador Hejč said.
