0 Factors to sainthood in Filipino OFW experience

DUBAI, UAE―As it turns out, certain aspects of the Filipino OFW’s experience like loyalty and sacrifice may be keys to a saintly life like that of soon-to-be St. Pedro Calungsod.

During a long stop-over in Dubai on the way to the Rome canonization of Bl. Pedro Calungsod, Archbishop John Du shared that he thinks Filipinos’ innate loyalty could lead to sainthood.

Palo Archbishop John F. Du being interviewed by CBCPNews Reporter Nirva'ana Delacruz at the Dubai International Airport during a stop over to Rome for the Canonization of Bl. Pedro Calungsod on October 21 at St. Peter's Basilica.

Drawing from the life of Bl. Pedro himself, Du talked about the young martyr’s loyalty to Fr. Diego Luis de San Vitores, whom he did not leave even in the face of imminent danger and inescapable death.

For the modern working Filipino, this is manifested through the millions of Filipino OFWs who have gained the trust and confidence of employers and colleagues because of an excellent work ethic and a personal warmth that is an all too familiar Filipino signature.

“I know some Filipinos, when their amo (boss) died, they inherited some of their wealth,” Du added, explaining how employers are ‘inspired’ by Filipino workers’ loyalty.

Upon his touchdown in Rome, Italy, Fr. Salvador Agualada, Jr. talked about how Filipino OFWs’ capacity to sacrifice ―being away from family, enduring loneliness abroad ― is already a “natural ground” for sainthood.

Agualada also explained that this willingness to give up comforts for the sake of loved ones, which is almost a reflex in many Filipino families, is also purified by the Christian faith and it’s teachings.

Bl. Pedro Calungsod will be canonized on October 21 in Rome, Italy. [Nirva'ana Ella Delacruz]

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