Kaohsiung, Taiwan Mayor Apologizes For Discriminatory Remarks to OFWs

The mayor of Kaohsiung, Taiwan apologizes, through the media, to his discriminatory remark toward the Overseas Filipino Workers in Taiwan. The news about the mayor calling the OFWs as “Marias” had created a spark and had turned into a burning flame of hatred and disappointment from the hearts of the Filipino community in Taiwan.



Calling OFWs as “Marias” is a racist remark. The mayor explained that he did not intend to devalue the dignity of the Filipino workforce with his choice of words. He added that he is sorry for the misunderstandings that his words had caused and that he is expecting to be working with the Philippines very soon.

The Philippine Representative to Taiwan, Angelito Tan said that he has deep regrets towards the racist comment the mayor of Kaohsiung has to OFWs. He believes that the term “Marias” is a negative term that degrades the name of foreign workers in Taiwan.

The Philippines is the fourth largest English-speaking country in the world and that ninety-two percent of the population of the Philippines speak the English language as their second language.
The Philippines always see to it that they get the highest degree of standards for their citizens who want to work overseas to provide for their family the best living condition and also to help the country in nation-building.



The cabinet spokesperson, Kolas Yataka comes from the indigenous Amis community. She said that during her childhood days, she was called a “Maria” by his classmates due to her skin color. She strongly supports the ending of race-based discrimination.