A Filipina OFW in Israel

Florita Loresco- Ducusin is a mother of two lovely children; a faithful wife and a daughter who decided to pursue a seemingly forgotten dream.

“When I was still single it's been a dream to go & work abroad until I married and forgot about it. Then by year 2005 one of my co workers in barangay encouraged me to apply and told me that two of his daughters and a sister were already in Israel. I kept thinking about it until l finally decided to try my luck in a foreign country. When my parents learned of my decision they have mixed emotions, they were glad 'cause a great opportunity had come my way but at the same time sad 'cause I will be leaving my children who were at the time 4 years old and 5 months old respectively. My husband and I even exchanged arguments but in the end he understood me and my plans for our future.”

As much as Florita wants to stay and be with her family, she knows that going abroad is something that will eventually help provide for their needs. Like any other overseas worker, Florita embarked on a trip she barely knew; having in mind lots of expectations and high hopes, thinking beyond her own uncertainties. She related the tedious and often long process in applying abroad.

“It's quite hard to apply especially in choosing the right legal recruitment agency. It took me 8 months to apply. You need to process and complete all the required documents, undergo medical examinations to be sure you are fit to work, attend a caregiver's training from a center affiliated to your agency. If you already have a contract, you will be scheduled for a personal appearance and interview at the Israel Embassy along with your spouse if you are married. Once you already acquired a work visa you must attend the PDOS or the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar to get a certificate before your flight.”

Her patience finally paid off. Come May 23, 2006, Florita left for Israel. For this 31-year old Mom, working overseas is a huge opportunity but little did she know that her often neutral and good expectations will eventually be challenged by some unexpected situations.

There, she is like one fish out of water, gaining whatever ground she could to live and adapt accordingly. However, there are still hurdles to face. Below were real-life accounts given by her; past and present dealings with various types of employers.

“…my first week at work so far went well and so l thought everything was okay until the son of my employer who lives with her harassed me by bumping me at my rear while I’m busy at the kitchen. I gave him a sharp look to let him know I was angry. But deep inside l was so afraid that time. I immediately send a text message to a friend who gave me a call right away. I told what happened and how I wanted to leave my job that very moment. She gave me a call card and advised me to call my agency. Afterwards the other son who fetched me from the agency called and told me to come at his house with his mother so we can talk things out. They try to convince me to stay and said they liked me but l decided to go after two weeks of work with her mother.

2nd employer
I was lucky enough to have a new job in Jerusalem given by a friend. I’ve been told the old woman fell from the stairs and sustained body injuries including a paralysis on the right side of the face, and she needs the aid of a walker for mobility. Having the knowledge in physical therapy l started to do her some massage on the affected part of the face and on the legs. She and her daughter were very glad because in less than 2 months she recovered and doesn't need to use a walker anymore. I thought I was already lucky because they were nice to me and they even buy me presents. But then afterwards the old woman became demanding that she wants some massage everyday though she knows I have lots of work to do. She would call and complain to her daughter and sometimes tell things which aren't true. She was so strict that I must clean the house daily. It came to a point when even the daughter would shout at me and utter hurtful words.

They never tried to listen and all I can do is cry. And so after 5 months I decided to leave. The nephew of the woman asked me to give them a chance that they will increase my salary but l answered “no”.

3rd and present employer
Florita was at first hesitant to accept this job as the employer doesn't have a washing machine. "We agreed I will only take my day offs once a month and will pay me with my stay on weekends. After a week, I left because l must do hand washing, and then I realize l would go back and give it a try. I thought to myself what's important for me now is a kind- hearted employer and peace of mind at work. And so l got a work visa for a year. But every time I would do the laundry the blankets and bed sheets included, and feel my back aches, all l can do is stay in my room and weep. It never occurred to me that l would experience such things abroad. I always picture myself having a good job and employer before, but l always tell myself to be more patient. After a year with her, we again agreed to renew my visa. And after a few months, l told the daughter to buy a washing machine or l will take my days off every week, this has alarmed her mother and made up her mind to buy one. Now l knew my patience has paid off.”

Florita's story did not end there as adjustments need to be met. Her indifference to food and language were a learning process. Being in Israel taught her the importance of living up to change, being patient, as well as be reliant to oneself.

“The first and most difficult adjustment is with the language, Hebrew. Most people here are not well verse in English. My first employer was a blind woman and wheelchair bound. I must attend to her all the time.

Funny to tell but every time she ask something, I would browse at my notes given by the training center l attended in Manila. If I can't find the meaning of the words I would immediately send text messages to my flat mate asking her to translate the Hebrew words to English. It was a hard time for me to communicate with her.

Second is the food. They usually eat a lot of bread, soups, and meat particularly chicken, fruits & veggies that I am not even familiar with. In my first week at work, I can hardly eat since I’m used to eating rice especially on lunch & dinner. They always prepare special meals on their Sabbath which starts Friday afternoon till Saturday afternoon, and you are not allowed to do work until Sabbath is over. (Religious people have two separate sinks in the kitchen; one is for preparing dishes with dairy products and the other for meat dishes. Even the things used in preparation of dairy products such as utensils should not be used for meat.)”.

True enough, Filipinos are known for their resiliency. You can always expect overseas workers to thrive and do well. Florita is an example of a hard working Filipina who wishes to strive and do her duties at her utmost capacity. Someone who, in the midst of complexity, proved to be not just good but better. She claims that whenever unfamiliarity sets in, having an open mind is the only key; learn to ask questions when necessary.

Being away from her children is harder as it has always been for any mother. That is why she prefers to busy herself and turn her attention to bible reading, listening to music, and chatting away time with friends and family.

Until now, Florita sees herself continuing her present job. If fate allows, she would choose to work in another foreign land.

“…leaving behind your family, loved ones, and being alone in a foreign country is a very sad situation. Charged to experience, I cried a lot thinking I haven’t even saw my second child when she started to walk and didn't experience her kissing or hugging me as I come home from work. Oftentimes, she’s not in the mood to speak with me on the phone. It breaks a mother's heart to be away from her children for so long…”

For this young mother, Israel served as her platform in gaining independence and acquiring patience; where she learned to trust herself and be wary of others. Yet each time she sees the gradual change in their lives as to sending her eldest to a good school, it never fails to remind her that misfortune or not, she is staying for the right reasons.

Having the will to move on is a concept Florita owns for now. As for her advice, she has these to say, “Never take your health for granted and remember your church life (for God's guidance and blessings). And lastly, once you start to earn it's also the best time to start saving for the future because that is the main reason why we are here.”

“…love your work and learn to love what you do…What l learned in life is, you must put yourself in the situation, get involved, and know the needs of the person you work for. You should be flexible, broadminded and patient at the best way you can. And if you love your work, you’ll seem to be happy and satisfied even at difficult times…”

Florita's experiences made her see the hardships and sadness. Being in the Holy land is one of her greatest experiences, it was because she likewise developed a truer and braver self.

Serving OFWs: Philippine Overseas Employment Administration

In an ordinary afternoon along EDSA corner Ortigas Avenue, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is packed with hundreds of busy applicants going in and out of the old Blas F. Ople Building. This must be one of the busiest places in Manila where you can find the never-ending growth in number of many Filipinos aspiring to work abroad. These Filipinos believe that working abroad is the only solution, if not one of other promising solutions they can they can think of, that will give way to the realization of their goals.

Many have said that they have decided to work abroad for the sake of their family. They are even much aware of the many sacrifices that come with it. Some have given other reasons of working abroad such as poor local economy, loss of faith in the government, and personal dreams, however, these reasons always lead down to its primary concern - that is financial.

Whatever reasons these Filipinos may have, it is undeniably true that the role of POEA is very significant to the realization of their goals. POEA was established in 1982 as an attached agency of the Department of Labor and Employment. It is mandated to manage the migration of many Filipino workers. It provides various services for employment and welfare, adjudication and employment regulation, and management services for all Filipino workers applying abroad.


POEA is expanding the grassroots tri-media outreach of public orientation and education on the risks and rewards of overseas employment. One of these is the consistent campaign against illegal recruitment.

The quarterly publication of list of licensed recruitment agencies in the Philippines is part of POEA's Anti-Illegal Recruitment Campaign. It is free of charge and is available from the information lobby of POEA. The list includes the complete information of each agency along with its contact person and contact numbers. It also provides OFW Advisory related to jobs abroad, prospect employers, and bits of OFW stories.

The growing number of Filipinos working abroad poses a big challenge to POEA as it cannot easily scale fast to meet growing demands including efficient services and facilities. Still the office is continuously doing its duty for the benefit of Filipinos workers abroad.

How to get to POEA
To get to POEA, if you are coming from Katipunan, you can take either MRT or a bus going to EDSA. However, if you are coming from the south, you can take a bus going to Cubao and get off at Robinson’s Galleria.

A Filipino Pit Inspector in Macau

With the onset of more pressing problems, many Filipinos have decided to find employment some place else. For some, they feel the dire need to establish themselves financially through working abroad, all the while hoping for a good, stable future. Mateo Bedon, a 31-year old, nursing graduate opted to take the same path. He left the country February 2008 to work as a Pit Inspector in Macau and he mostly attributed his fate to nothing but sheer luck. When asked about how he landed the job, this is what he merely said, “It was hard. It took me a year to apply. It was all pure luck.”

Mateo Bedon or Matt, to his friends, finished a degree in nursing year 1997. He then worked as a medical representative and later became an employee of PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation). Working as a casino dealer for a number of years, he felt that he really wanted more not only from the job but from himself. Admittedly, Matt regarded foreign employment as top priority. “Yes, it was a priority. I wanted to work abroad mainly for financial reasons and career advancement.”

His family gave him the support he needed. They understood him completely and thought of it positively. “They were actually happy for me since they know all of my dissatisfactions all along,” Matt further revealed.

For this young man, his story is reflective of what many young professionals intend to do. Neither was it a sob nor tragic story for his departure meant practicality and facing reality, nothing more. Life is hard nowadays and he wanted to shift gears economically, a fitting preparation for a well-lived life ahead. Asked about apprehensions or second thoughts, this is what he speaks for himself, “I was actually prepared for whatever the consequences of my decision.”

True to form, Matt became aware of the pros and cons of his leaving. Adjustments for him were never really a major concern. Though, he admits facing differences, “Most of my Filipino co-workers are very supportive. However, I got mixed reactions from my Malaysian and Macanese colleagues. Some are easy to get along with; some are apathetic while some are somewhat rude.”

Matt also stated how the presence of other Filipinos proved welcoming. “My adjustment to my new working environment was made easier by the fact that there are already Filipinos here, some of which are my friends back in the Philippines who I can approach to when I need to ask questions about procedures that I am not sure / familiar with.” More so, Matt found this helpful as he deals with his current job, “I am responsible for changing cards, exchanging of chips and supervision of the dealers and rectification of mistakes according to my capacity as a Pit Inspector.”

As for adjustments, Matt felt being in Macau for just a few months speaks of minuscule experience in terms of culture change. What totally separates him from the locals naturally would be the challenge of conversing with them since mostly speaks Cantonese. “Language differences are very much felt here. For one, most people here only understand and speak Cantonese so it is really a challenge….”

For most workers overseas, leaving behind families and loved ones is tough ordeal. That is why Matt constantly communicates with his family through the internet and mobile phone once or twice a week. He also mentioned this as one disadvantage of working abroad; a scenario that is very much felt by those who do have their respective families here. “Given the same salary and position, I would choose to go back to the Philippines. There really is no place like home and being with your friends and loved ones. I am only after the money and career advancement, that’s why I’m here,” Matt also shared.

For him, the possibility of pursuing work to other countries is highly probable after all. As with the case of many Filipinos, it will always be a hunt for greener pastures, an undertaking feted for a cause- to build better lives for themselves and for the ones who matter to them the most. “I can say it was all worth the time and effort I’ve spent to get here. I have already forged new friendships, learned to live independently, new skills and language and new things that I would have not experienced if I did not leave the Philippines.”

And for those who decide to seek their green pasture, so to speak, the lad has these to say, “Just be flexible and adaptable. Make sure you are mentally and emotionally prepared when deciding to work abroad. Be like the bamboo…bending but not breaking.” Indeed, a set of good words uttered by a man who sought and adapted enough in achieving his goals.

Places to Visit from Central Terminal LRT Station

Central Terminal LRT Station, sometimes called as Central or Anoceros, is located in Ermita, Manila. It lies in the center of the LRT Yellow Line. Many interesting landmarks and worth-seeing places can be found around this station.



A few steps from Central Station, just between the Manila City Hall and the City College of Manila, you will find the Liwasang Bonifacio (the Andres Bonifacio National Shrine), a massive bronze and solid structure which is obviously established to honor and remember Andres Bonifacio and his greatest deeds as one of our greatest heroes.

For someone who had worked abroad, especially those who had spent many years outside the country, the entire Liwasang Bonifacio is an excellent spot to revive your sense of nationalism and to discover your identity as a Filipino, whether with your family or just yourself alone.

Bits of information can be found on the Bonifacio statue itself. There are scenes depicted on it which are like telling stories about our history. You can also find several flagpoles flying the transformation of all the flags from the Revolutionary era to the present, and the KKK’s constitution inscribed in metal.



Some few more steps to your right, if you are facing the statue of Bonifacio, you can reach the Manila City Hall. It is one of the busiest landmarks around Central Station. From the outside, it looks impressive with its St. Stephens Tower-like Hall. It provides services mainly in relation to government transactions like for OFWs, they can get their birth certificates from there if they were born in Manila. Others are passport, residential certificate, etc.

From Manila City Hall, you take the underpass and few more steps to one of the seven gates of the famous Intramuros. But before reaching Intramuros, if you are fond of bonsais, you can drop by the Bonsai Museum and Library located on the right side of the road. The entrance fee is Php 50.00.



Intramuros, or the walled city of Manila, is actually a big place which covers an area of about 160 acres. It is surrounded with walls which are 6 meters high and a commanding 3 kilometers in length. You can actually get there by LRT from United Nations Station. However, the gate which is nearest to the most visited spots in Intramuros is close to Central Station.

Near the gate, there is the OWWA which provides foreign language training for aspiring OFWs. It is pretty impressive to find a 7-11 store in front of OWWA with some details suggesting old times.



On the corner of Sta. Lucia Street, there is the Light and Sound Museum which depicts the colonial rule of the Spaniards in the Philippines and the Filipino struggle to gain independence from the foreign invaders. Entrance fee though is quite over-whelming. If you go there by a group of more than ten people, you will pay Php 100.00 per person. However, if you are visiting alone, prepare Php 1000.00.



Along the Gen. Luna Drive, just before the San Agustin Church and Museum, are the entrance and the office of Club Intramuros which administers the golf course where locals and foreign nationals play the sport.



Going a bit farther is the San Agustin Church and Museum. The church’s design is a legacy of Spanish architecture in the Baroque style. The feeling from the outside and inside of the church is like it belongs to a different era. The museum, which is adjoining the church, is also a must-see experience.



Another famous church in Intramuros is the Manila Cathedral, also known as the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. The history of the church itself is quite inspiring. Being there is an experience of the combination of our history and the Filipino faith.

And definitely you can’t leave Intramuros without paying tribute to our national hero Jose Rizal by visiting Fort Santiago. It is a natural defensive position that has been used for centuries. It is shielded by 22 feet high walls, with a thickness of 8 feet, and an entrance measuring 40 feet high.



It serves as a museum which features well-preserved legacies of the Spanish government, Rizal Shrine, and the prison dungeons for alleged criminals by the Spanish officials. You can also find Jose Rizal’s final footsteps representing the walk from his chamber to the actual location of his execution embedded onto the concrete ground. The rest of Fort Santiago has been set up into a beautiful park. It is really recommended for family outings while appreciating our colorful history.

Taking the MRT3

The Manila Metro Rail Transit System more popularly called as Metrostar Express, Metrostar, MRT-3 Blue Line, or just plain MRT seats in the very heart of the metropolis, along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue or much popularly known as EDSA. There is a saying that “when you are lost seek EDSA”, that is actually true for most people. Basically EDSA is a household name, and to prove that do you know any person (aside from foreigners) who have not passed by EDSA at some point in their lives? I guess not.

History

It is a known fact that the Metro Manila is the seat of the Philippine political and socio-economic activities, and for so many years it has seen the massive increase in vehicle and commuter population. The heavy traffic, population and pollution have plagued the Metro Manila district for years, and probably for years to come.

The EDSA Avenue is considered to be among to have the highest volume of traffic in the world. It is shaped as a semi-circular ring road that links to several roads that lead to the metro’s political, social and economic centers.

The MRT3 is part of a vision to have a network of rapid transit lines that spans 150 kilometers through the major cities within 20 years, and that plan includes EDSA. The construction of the railway commenced on September 16, 1997. The initial part of the railway, from North Avenue to Buendia was opened on December 16, 1999 and on July 20, 2000 the remaining station, Buendia to Taft Avenue, was opened to the public.

Route Map, Services & Landmarks

Stations	Other Services	Landmark
North Avenue		SM City, Trinoma Mall and the MRT Depot
Quezon Avenue	Handicapped Access	ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation
Kamuning	Handicapped Access	GMA Network
Araneta Center-Cubao	Handicapped Access, Connecting to LRT Line 2 (Purple Line)	Araneta Coliseum, Gateway Mall and Ali Mall
Santolan-Annapolis		Camp Crame and Soliven Shopping Center
Ortigas	Handicapped Access	St. Pedro Poveda College, Robinsons Galleria and SM Megamall
Shaw Boulevard	Handicapped Access	Shangri-La Mall, EDSA Central and Star Mall
Boni Avenue		Wendy’s Pioneer, Robinsons Place Pioneer and Pioneer Highlands
Guadalupe		San Carlos Seminary, Our Lady of Guadalupe Minor Seminar and Guadalupe Commercial Complex
Buendia	Handicapped Access	Shell Station (Edsa corner Buendia) and North Forbes Park
Ayala	Handicapped Access	SM Mall, Ayala Shopping Center and Hotel Intercontinental
Magallanes		Dasmarinas Village and Magallanes Flyover
Taft Avenue	Handicapped Access, Connecting to LRT (Yellow Line)	Metropoint Mall and Winston Lodge

Shops and Freebies

Shops are available at some of the stations where commuters can buy some food and drinks. The number of shop varies by station, depending on the volume of commuters.

Inquirer Libre is a free newspaper tabloid, a Filipino version of the Inquirer. The newspaper tabloid is delivered daily around 6:00AM. The giving away of the free newspaper tabloid is made possible by the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Fares

Commuters of MRT are charged Php10.00 ($0.25) for the first 3 stations, Php 11.00 ($0.27) for 4 to 5 stations, Php 12.00 ($0.29) for 6 to 8 stations, Php 14.00 ($0.34) for 9 to 11 stations, and Php 15.00 ($0.37) for the 12 stations. Children who are below the height of the fare gate (3-feet and 4.4-inch) are free to ride on the MRT.

Tickets

Type	Description
MRT Single-Journey Tickets	Valid on the day of purchase.
MRT Stored Value Tickets	A Php 100.00 ($2.48) value and is valid for three months from date of purchase.
G-Pass	From Globe Telecom, it was introduced in July 2006 as an alternative for paying for fares. It cost an initial amount of Php 100.00 ($2.48).
Smart Money Pay Pass	Smart Communications has partnered with Manila Metro Rail Transit System on March 2007 to permit MRT commuters to pay for fare using Smart Money PayPass card. Today there is still no formal date of the launching of the new MRT ticketing system.

Reference:

Article

• http://www.dotcmrt3.gov.ph/stations
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manila_Metro_Rail_Transit_System
• http://www.yehey.com/mlrt/mrt3a.aspx

Filling the gap

Coping up for an absence and filling the gap is the hardest thing to do especially in a family set up. The roles we have in our hands as a member of the family gives us enough responsibilities to perform in order for the relations to function well. But sometimes things happen and we have to make do with the sacrifices and big changes set about, by one of the family member going abroad to earn a decent living — sacrifices.

Cristina Sarah E. Osorio husband is in Dubai right now. He went first to Saudi Arabia on 1998 and then proceeded to Dubai on 2001. The decision to work abroad is mutual. "We decided that the kids are growing up fast and while they are still not yet studying, might as well we take advantage and save for our future. He saw a newspaper ads as a sales assistant in a certain boutique in Saudi and took his chance."

The the idea that her husband is very far away was quite difficult for Cristina. "This is especially in times of crisis and when the kids very much need him. But we are coping up now and getting used to it after all these years. To make up for the lost time, he calls us always especially on special occasions like birthdays and Christmas."

However, Cristina believes that in terms of compensation, a separated family is worth it. "The kids are now studying in a good school. We go to other tourist spots here in the Philippines for a vacation, especially whenever my husband comes home."

In order for the children to understand their family situation. "I always tell the kids that it is for their own good that their father is working in another country. So that they can study in good schools and their father will be able to provide for all their needs. It is just natural that they ask questions and I just answer them with as much information as I can.

If things were to be done all over again, Cristina will likely not want the same situation she is in now. "I think it would be better if the whole family is intact here in one country, whatever it takes. It is hard to bring up the kids being a single parent."

"I know that God will be able to provide, and we will make do of whatever resources that we have here in the Philippines, but the good thing is we are all living together under one roof."

Her husband's contract will be finished in two years from now and Cristina will have to review their choices once again. "Maybe depending on the contract and the savings that we will incur. I think it will be enough time by then to decide if he will forego his contract or not."

You are invited to share your story with us.

A Filipina Software Tester in Canada

A lot of countries are now becoming famous destination for Filipinos wanting to work abroad. Some OFWs got to where they are now by being at the right place at the right time such as Gazelle "Grace" Araneta.

Grace is a certified software tester (CSTE) and certified QA Analyst working for Compuware (Montreal). Before coming to Canada, she lived in Park Avenue, Pasay. She took up computer science major in information technology (IT) in De La Salle University and transferred to DLSU – College of Saint Benilde to study business administration major in computer applications.

The experience of working abroad is not really new for Grace as her dad went overseas to work when she was four. She has relatives from both side of the family abroad as well, mostly in the United States. Grace grew up with her mom and grandparents (from her mother’s side).

Student entrepreneur
Like most young Filipinos studying in college, Grace doesn't have a clear idea on what she wanted to be. But with her dad's encouragement, she found herself comfortable in studying IT.

"I only knew that I loved math and the idea of being my own boss. Thus, I wanted to take up a career in either banking or business. Back then, I did not have much knowledge on computers. I never really knew how to print a document, or shutdown a PC, using the Windows OS until I got to college. I decided to take up a computer course because it required skills which I felt comfortable with such as math, logic and analysis. My dad was the one who urged me on this because it paid good money and he was also in the IT field."

While in college, Grace also got the chance to pursue her aspiration of becoming an entrepreneur. She opened up a small computer shop business back in December 1999 which lasted for 2 years. The experience gave her more knowledge in software, hardware, and networking.

From Manila to Canada
After graduating from college Grace pursued a job in IT and preferred to be a programmer. "However, due to the small employment opportunities for fresh graduates in this field, I started out as a technical support agent. Two weeks after I got hired, I got a call from Microsoft for a job in database administration. This opened my doors to other reputable companies in the Philippines, exposing me in different areas of IT such as development, business analysis, testing/QA, and a bit of project management."

After being employed in Microsoft Support Services as an Assistant Database Administrator, Grace got hired by Headstrong for her exposure to Siebel. She started as a tester and worked her way up as a team lead and a business analyst. "I harnessed more skills in testing/QA since I became a team lead in Headstrong. Thus, I decided to focus on testing and QA at that time."

Grace aspirations of becoming a developer led her to transfer to another company, Michelin, where she worked as a JAVA Developer and Project Coordinator.

"During my stay in Michelin, I received a call from ESM (now known as Telus International Philippines), a company that outsources to Telus (Canada). They hired me as a Senior QA and was sent to Vancouver for several weeks. During my stay, I got a call from Compuware regarding an opening for a permanent position in testing/QA. Since I was planning to visit my dad in Montreal, they scheduled me for a face to face interview with the QA Program Director. After several weeks, Compuware informed me that I passed."

Being offered to work abroad is not new to Grace as she got several calls from other countries (mostly Asia) which enticed her to look for work opportunities outside the Philippines.

"Working abroad never crossed my mind until I got to college. I realized that there are better opportunities abroad for IT since most of the countries that are leading in technology are mainly European (e.g. Finland, Denmark, Sweden, etc.). Thus, you could say that my course had an impact with this decision.

I was lucky enough to finally land one in Canada. When my family heard about this, they had mixed feelings of joy and sadness. However, they supported me in my decision because they also knew that it was all to our advantage. Initially, it would be difficult because I will be separated from them, but in due time, we will all be together again. Sometimes you have to sacrifice a little to gain a little."

There were several factors as well that encouraged Grace to work in Canada such as helping her family. This desire to have a better life for the family became a goal that she is determined to achieve, and will keep on working as an OFW if needed.

"My mom grew up from a well-off family. However, due to unavoidable circumstances, our status in life changed. I wanted my mom and sister to experience the life we had before but after working for several years in the Philippines, I realized that it was difficult to attain my goal with what I earned.

After being exposed to different kinds of people and culture in my work, I also realized that there were so many benefits being offered abroad that were not available to Filipinos working in the Philippines. I then figured out why so many Filipinos were applying for citizenships elsewhere even if it takes years of waiting."

Getting OFW status and work permits
Making a big move to work abroad requires a lot of paperwork where most foreign employers are not familiar with local requirements. This often results to delayed departures. However, Grace was confident as Compuware had their own attorney in the United States. "They helped me out with all the paperwork. But, since it was the first time they ever hired anyone from the Philippines, I had to do some research as well. They were not aware about the POEA so I did that one on my own. It took 3 months longer than their target date for the entire process to complete."

Departure day
The long processing days helped alleviate the sadness as Grace spent most of her time with those dearest to her. "The day I left was even harder. As I walked towards the entrance of the airport, I never tried to look back because I knew I would only cry if I did. It was tough because of the 12-13 hour difference in time, making communication a bit difficult."

Working in Canada
Grace admitted being nervous not knowing what to expect. She wondered if she would actually fit in since she was in a culture where it was predominantly French.

"When I came here, my life was extremely different. Contrary to my experience in the Philippines (wherein I had many friends), during my first few months here in Canada, I usually ate lunch alone. I stayed home on the weekends watching TV and talking to family and friends through the internet. Sometimes, I did not mind spending time alone because I became more focused on my work."

Experience of a first-time OFW
Grace believes that one advantage of being a first-time OFW is the learning acquired by being exposed to other culture. They gain more confidence through their experience. Best of all, it builds character and maturity through occasional struggles encountered in being in a foreign land.

"First time OFWs often need a period of adjustment. We often go through a trial and error method in a lot of things. A simple example of this is when I tried finding clothes to wear for winter that and found some that were not warm enough. I had to experience it for myself to realize the mistake I have done and learn from it."

It also has its disadvantages. First-time OFWs, regardless of age, would feel lonely, homesick, experience occasional sadness, and sometimes trauma due to drastic change.

"There is a feeling of being left out from the society you once grew up in. What kept me sane were my goal and my vision for the future. Sometimes, when this becomes clouded, I talk to my friends and family through the phone or internet. But since this was not always possible, I watch a lot of my favorite funny shows like Family Guy. This really helped me a lot --- I believe laughter cures almost everything."

Contrary to the racial slurs we often hear about, Grace shared that almost everyone has been nice to her. "From the people I meet at work, or even the strangers I pass by. I could not recall anyone who has ever offended me or my heritage, nor have I heard anyone make a racial remark. Often times the people I meet know Filipinos because of Manny Pacquiao."

The Filipino OFW Challenge
Although being lonely and homesick can be a big challenge for OFWs based abroad, Grace believes that she has to strive to be the best in what she does in order to make a statement for Filipinos.

"Currently, I am the only Filipino citizen in the company, and I try to make a good impression at work by doing my job efficiently and following work ethics. I want the Western Culture (such as Canadians) to not only see Filipinos as caregivers or household helpers. I want them to see us as a pool for IT resources whether it be for onshore or offshore work. I want them to realize that Filipinos are talented, skillful and versatile in computers and technology as I have witnessed during my work experience in the Philippines. Though it may be a challenge too big for me, I always believe that one person can make a difference."

Meeting fellow Filipinos abroad
Occasionally, Grace spotted some Filipinos living in Montreal through the Filipino community where a lot of activities and assistance are given to fellow Filipinos. "What makes us distinct is probably our unity (even in places outside our own country)."

Filipinos working abroad are not only increasing by the number but getting even younger. Grace believes that this is both a legacy and trend. "I say it’s a legacy because I feel that the older generation of OFWs has influenced the minds of the younger workers by bringing awareness on the vast opportunities outside the Philippines. It’s a trend because people that are aware of this want to be one of those whose life changed for the better as a result of becoming an OFW."

Lessons learned to aspiring OFWs
When going to a foreign land, OFWs should always prepare physically, mentally and most of all, emotionally. There are some of the things that Grace thought could help one out:

• Always keep in mind your purpose/goal (I believe this should always be first). "During the seminar from POEA, I remember they made us write this in the paper so that whenever we feel like giving up, we would always be reminded of why we chose to be OFWs."
  
  
• Communication with friends and family in the Philippines is important. Try to exhaust all possible forms of communication such as internet, phone, letters, email, etc. When there is a time difference, set a schedule that is fair to all.
  
  
• Look for Filipino communities in the country of your destination. It would also lessen your feeling of being homesick since these communities provide a lot of activities to remind you of our culture/heritage. Also, this is a great opportunity for you to meet new friends. This is important because they can always help you out in a lot of ways (whether personal or legal matters).
  
  
• Always do a research on the country that you’re headed to before you go. Find out more about the culture, geography, weather, cost of living, etc. This will help you out in your assessment and planning. "For instance, it is cheaper to buy electronics here compared to the Philippines, however, cost of clothing is more expensive. Thus, before going to Canada, I would prioritize bringing clothes and leave electronics I can do without. Also, researching can help you out in dealing with the people you’ll be meeting, for instance, in Canada (and in some other countries), you cannot say ‘Merry Christmas’ because some would find this offensive (due to the multicultural background)."
  

No regrets
Grace had some good times and rough times in her experience as an OFW. But despite it all, she doesn't have any regrets. "I have made a lot of sacrifices. However, once you have achieved something that you really wanted so bad, then the experience makes it all worthwhile."

You are invited to share your story with us.