Marcos Jr. posthumously awards Order of Lakandula to late DMW Sec. Susan Ople

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. posthumously awarded the Order of Lakandula with the rank of Grand Cross (Bayani) to the late Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Susan "Toots" Ople.

The award ceremony coincided with Rizal Day and the fourth anniversary of the founding of the DMW.

Marcos recognized Ople as an extraordinary public servant whose legacy continues to protect Filipinos, comparing her patriotism to that of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal.

He stated that the current administration is committed to continuing Ople's projects aimed at improving the welfare of overseas Filipino workers, noting that she laid the groundwork for current successes.

Under Ople's leadership, 42 bilateral agreements with 25 countries were signed, and she also helped establish the One Repatriation Command Center, the Overseas Filipino Workers Hospital, the DMW mobile application, and the OFW Pass.

Marcos Jr. expressed regret for not being able to bestow the award upon Ople while she was still alive, highlighting her exceptional character and dedication to public service.

Secretary Ople passed away on August 22, 2023, at the age of 61 after a battle with breast cancer.