Susan Toots Ople Passed Away: Who Was Susan Toots Ople? What Happened to Toots Ople? How Did Toots Ople Die?
by Srinithi
Updated Aug 23, 2023
Who Was Susan Toots Ople?
Susan Ople, born on February 9, 1962, was a Filipina leader and champion for the rights of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), holding the distinction of being the inaugural head of the Department of Migrant Workers. She was the youngest among the seven children of Blas F. Ople and Susana Vasquez. Her father served as Labor Secretary/Minister during the Marcos regime and later as Senator. She worked as chief of staff for her father in the Senate and later at the Department of Foreign Affairs when he became its Secretary.
In 2004, she became the Undersecretary of the Department of Labor and Employment under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. She ran for Senator in the 2010 Philippine elections, ranking 34th out of 61 candidates.
Ople founded and presided over the Blas Ople Policy Center (BOPC), aiding distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) globally. She co-hosted the radio show "Bantay OFW" and had a Saturday program called "Global Pinoy." She ran again for Senator in the 2016 Philippine Elections, focusing on OFW welfare and key issues. Despite endorsements from multiple presidential candidates, she placed 22nd out of 50 candidates.
In 2022, President Bongbong Marcos appointed Ople as the secretary of the newly-established Department of Migrant Workers. On November 29, 2022, her appointment was confirmed by the congressional Commission on Appointments, making her the inaugural secretary of this executive department.
Susan Toots Ople Passed Away
Susan Ople, a prominent figure in Philippine politics, faced a challenging battle with breast cancer, temporarily putting on hold her consideration for a cabinet position under President Bongbong Marcos. After Marcos' second State of the Nation Address in July 2023, she began a medical leave due to her health condition.
Unfortunately, the fight against cancer took a tragic turn, and on August 22, 2023, Susan Ople passed away at the age of 61, succumbing to complications from the disease. Her life's journey, marked by her dedication to overseas Filipino workers and public service, came to a somber end, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy and resilience.
What Happened to Toots Ople?
Susan "Toots" Ople, esteemed leader of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), sadly departed at the age of 61 on Tuesday. The DMW's official statement conveyed deep sorrow as it announced her passing.
She peacefully left this world at around 1 p.m. on August 22, 2023, enveloped by her cherished family and loved ones. Ople's legacy as a dedicated public servant and advocate for migrant workers is reflected in her role as the inaugural secretary of the DMW, an executive department established in 2022 under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Details regarding her funeral and interment are forthcoming.
How Did Toots Ople Die?
Susan "Toots" Ople, a prominent figure celebrated for her leadership at the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), confronted a formidable struggle against breast cancer. This arduous journey compelled the delay of her contemplation for a pivotal position within President Marcos' cabinet.
Despite her health battle, Ople's commitment to public service remained resolute, a testament to her unwavering dedication. Her tenure at DMW, focused on the welfare of migrant workers, highlighted her determination to advocate for vulnerable communities. Ople's personal fight mirrored her professional endeavors, both marked by resilience and an unyielding spirit to bring positive change to those she served.
Susan Toots Ople Obituary
Susan "Toots" Ople, a dedicated advocate for migrant workers and the inaugural Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), passed away on August 22, 2023, at the age of 61. Born on February 9, 1962, she was the youngest child of Blas F. Ople and Susana Vasquez.
Ople's remarkable journey in public service was marked by her unwavering commitment to the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Having served as the founder and president of the Blas Ople Policy Center, she tirelessly assisted distressed OFWs around the world. Her advocacy earned her recognition and respect within the Filipino community.
Throughout her career, Ople's dedication to her cause was evident. She served as chief of staff to her father, Senator Blas F. Ople, and continued her service at the Department of Foreign Affairs. In 2004, she was appointed Undersecretary of the Department of Labor and Employment, a role that allowed her to further advance her advocacy.
In addition to her administrative roles, Ople was a familiar voice on the airwaves. She co-anchored the radio show "Bantay OFW" at DZXL's Tatak RMN network and hosted the program "Global Pinoy" on DWIZ 882 AM. Her platform amplified the concerns of migrant workers and contributed to positive change in their lives.
Ople's determination led her to the political arena. She ran for Senator in the 2010 and 2016 Philippine elections, advocating for legislation to enhance the welfare of OFWs. Her dedication earned her endorsements from prominent figures, and her impact extended beyond political boundaries.
Tragedy struck Ople's life when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite her health challenges, she persevered, using her own experiences to strengthen her advocacy. Her diagnosis led her to postpone her consideration for an appointment in President Marcos' cabinet. Following her medical leave after President Marcos' second State of the Nation Address in July 2023, Ople's battle with the disease concluded on August 22, 2023.
Ople's legacy is defined by her tireless efforts in championing the rights of migrant workers, offering a voice to those who often went unheard. Her tenure as the inaugural Secretary of the DMW marked a significant step forward in addressing the challenges faced by OFWs. Her passing leaves a void in the realm of public service, but her impact will continue to resonate in the lives she touched and the causes she championed.
She is survived by her family, loved ones, and a legacy that will endure in the hearts and minds of those who were inspired by her passion and dedication to making a difference.
Details about her funeral and burial arrangements will be made available to honor her memory and contributions.
Susan Toots Ople Passed Away- FAQs
Susan "Toots" Ople, born in 1962, was the youngest child of Blas F. Ople and Susana Vasquez. She held key roles in Philippine politics and served as chief of staff to her father, a senator and labor secretary. Ople was an advocate for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and founded the Blas Ople Policy Center (BOPC) to assist distressed OFWs. She also ran for Senator in the Philippine elections.
Susan "Toots" Ople was the inaugural Secretary of the newly-created Department of Migrant Workers, established in 2022. She was a dedicated advocate for OFWs and worked towards their welfare and rights.
Susan "Toots" Ople battled breast cancer, which led to a delay in her consideration for a cabinet position in President Bongbong Marcos' government. She took medical leave after Marcos' State of the Nation Address in July 2023. Sadly, on August 22, 2023, Ople passed away at the age of 61 due to complications from the disease.
Susan "Toots" Ople's legacy revolved around her dedication to advocating for the welfare of overseas Filipino workers. She founded the Blas Ople Policy Center to assist distressed OFWs globally and co-hosted radio shows to raise awareness of their concerns.
Susan "Toots" Ople's legacy is one of resilience, dedication, and advocacy. Her commitment to the welfare of overseas Filipino workers and her pivotal role in the DMW will continue to impact the lives of those she sought to help.