Modern-Day Heroes

Modern-Day Heroes

By: Jenifer Anchoriz

Being an OFW is not easy. You're far from your family. You're sacrificing your own happiness so you can provide for your loved ones here in the Philippines. There's also the feeling of loneliness because you have no one there with you.

Considered as the modern-day heroes of the Philippines, remittances from OFWs account for almost 10 per cent of Philippines GDP, with one worker abroad often the sole income earner for a family, or extended family back home. Speak to any OFW and they will, often enthusiastically, describe their ultimate dream of a better life in a Western-style house with luxuries and extravagances back home for them and their families such as piped water, air conditioning, and a small garden. While the photos of social events and gatherings posted to the Facebook timelines of OFWs provide a snapshot of their “exotic life abroad”, speak to any and they’ll tell you its never as simple as that; life abroad is actually full of sacrifices, struggles, and setbacks. Haven't you wondered what the top reasons are for Filipinos to choose working abroad?

Reasons why Filipinos choose working abrod:

• High unemployment in the country

• High salary, income and benefit packages

• Family and peer pressure

• Better career opportunities

• Economic condition

• Application discrimination

• Job insecurity in the country due to contractual status

• Technology makes communication easier

• High income tax and high cost of living in the country

• Exploring new opportunities

• Families are already waiting for them to migrate and work abroad

• They no longer feel safe in the country

Overseas Filipino Workers or OFW’s are Filipinos who are employed in foreign countries. They travel abroad to seek better opportunities in order to provide for the needs of their families in the Philippines. Filipinos are among the most dedicated workers in the face of the world and have commendable qualities which endear us to other races. We are able to adapt to different cultures with ease. We are able to assimilate in communities easily and get to know people quick. We tend to work hard, save and send remittances to our loved ones back home.

OFW Guide: Right as a Overseas Filipino Worker

• Right to equality

• Right to Opinion

• Right to work

• Right to equal pay

• The Right to just remuneration

• Right to rest and leisure

• Right to standard living

• Right to form and join trade unions