By Manny Balbin/PNA
CITY OF MALOLOS, Bulacan — Provincial officials and thousands of Bulakenyos on Sunday paid tribute to one of the province’s most illustrious sons and statesmen, the late Gat Blas F. Ople, during the commemoration of his 92nd birth anniversary held in front of the Livelihood Training Center in this city.
Commission on Audit (COA) chairperson Michael Aguinaldo, who served as guest speaker, rekindled Ka Blas’s immeasurable contribution to the country, especially in the labor and employment sector.
Aguinaldo also shared to Bulakenyos what the ‘Father of Philippine Labor Code’ said that has inspired him.
“Ka Blas then said that Filipinos live in an open society where every career is open to talents; that the opportunity to flourish is there for those who are ready for it; and in our willingness depends on how far we can change our lives,” he said.
The COA chair also shared some of the current efforts of the Department of Labor and Employment, which were all started by Ka Blas.
These include the eight-point labor and employment agenda, which contains the strengthening of protection and security of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), respect to rules and standards of human rights in labor, and ensuring that programs intended for the laborers will be rightfully given to them.
To continue the legacy of Ople, Gov. Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado said the protection of the rights of workers must be ensured.
“Protect the safety especially OFWs from cruel employers, defend the rights to serve, and value the money and remittances they have paid for through their sweat, blood, pride, and lives,” Alvarado said.
Meanwhile, the son of Ka Blas, Board Member Felix Ople, expressed his gratitude to the government, especially to the provincial government of Bulacan, for believing in his father’s advocacy even after his death.
“No matter where our father is, I know he is looking for us because of the development and enjoyment of Bulacan, and our country,” he said.
Anchored on the theme, “Pagpapatuloy ng Kanyang Nasimulan sa Larangan ng Empleyo at Kabuhayan,” the activity also included a wreath-laying activity at the monument of Ka Blas.
This was followed by the unveiling of the commemorative marker the renaming the Old Gat Blas F. Ople building to Gusaling Gat Blas F. Ople Sentro ng Kabataan, Kaalaman at Hanapbuhay.
Other guests who attended the commemoration were Rep. Jonathan Sy-Alvarado, Guiguinto Mayor Ambrosio Cruz Jr., Board Members Alex Castro and Therese Cheryll Ople and Ka Blas’ family members.
