migrants' stories, migrants' voices volume 5

Migrants Stories, Migrants Voices5

CARMELITA G. NUQUI MARIA CRISTY E. DAGUAY

&PETE E. RAHON

Editors

By the PHILIPPINE MIGRANTs RIGHTs wATCH (PMRw)

with support fromTAIwAN fOUNdATION fOR dEMOCRACy (Tfd)

2015

Philippine Migrants Rights Watch (PMRW)

First Published 2015

PublisherPhilippine Migrants Rights Watch

All rights reserved. Portions of this book may be reproduced with permission from the publisher. Inquiries should be addressed to:

Philippine Migrants Rights WatchPMRW Secretariat - DAWN OfficeUnit 3, 3rd FloorBocobo Commercial Center1253 J. Bocobo cor. Padre Faura StreetsErmita, Manila, PhilippinesTel 5269098 | Fax [email protected] | [email protected]://www.pmrw.org.ph

EditorsCarmelita G. NuquiMaria Cristy E. DaguayPete E. Rahon

Lay-outPete E. Rahon

PhotosCredits to authors

Cover DesignMarcial Conaco

ISBN (print) 978-971-93759-7-5ISBN (pdf) 978-971-93759-8-2

With support from Taiwan Foundation for Democracy (TFD). The views expressed in this publication are not neces-sarily the opinions and views of TFD.

Printed in the Philippines

This book is a tribute to all the migrants and members of their families who have sacrificed for a better life.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments .................................................................vii

Foreword ................................................................................... ix

About the book ....................................................................... xii

The stories ................................................................................ xv

Inspired and inspiring OFWs ..................................................1

Behind the smile, a hidden sorrow ........................................7

Domestic work is a decent job ...............................................13

In my fathers shoes ................................................................19

Faithful to Mama Mary ...........................................................25

Our Journey in the land of smiles .........................................33

I am my work experience .......................................................39

Easing homesickness through radio .....................................45

My life in Korea as an Artista ............................................53

Reflections ................................................................................59

Acknowledgments

The Philippine Migrants Rights Watch (PMRW) would like to acknowledge the following for their contributions:

Overseas Filipino Workers who unselfishly contributed and shared their personal stories for others to learn and be inspired and to the members of PMRW who helped shape the book.

Special thanks to Taiwan Foundation for Democracy for the grant to have this book published.

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Foreword

Three years since the last volume of the Migrants Stories, Migrants Voices, the Philippine Migrants Rights Watch (PMRW) is happy to issue the much awaited fifth volume of the book. Its publication coincides with the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on Migrants Workers (CMW). The convention aims to address what has now become a pressing global agenda - the promo-tion and protection of migrant workers rights. Despite more than two decades of the convention, however, migrant work receiving countries (host nations) continue to ignore ratifying measures that could help address this burgeoning dilemma.

The 25th CMW anniversary, the global scenario, and the dire plight of migrant workers serve as backdrop of the 10 stories in this book. It is a reflection of the current realities of our overseas Filipinos - mostly migrant workers and sea-farers scattered in different parts of the globe. Their stories are sources of enlightenment, and provide information on their experiences, while going through the whole cycle of the migration process. Through their effort and hard work, they were able to circumvent their earlier failures and frustrations, and their stories truly inspire us. They bring to fore that indomitable spirit of our Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

The last few years were witness to more challenges for our OFWs. There was the mass repatriation of our OFWs - some against their wishes, in countries with on-going conflict and terror threats like Libya and Syria. Others have chosen to stay put despite the perils, since no work awaits them when they come home. Countries in the Middle East are also ag-gressively pursuing the nationalization of jobs to provide employment for their own people. The brunt fell heavily among undocumented workers when the crackdown was implemented. In Jeddah, KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia),

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a Tent City was put up as temporary shelter for OFWs while their documents were processed for their return when mora-torium was granted. As expected, there was a huge turnout for repatriation. Some of them were Filipinas who had chil-dren born out of wedlock, without the proper documentation and registration, which delayed their return.

The embassy and consulate were not able to respond im-mediately because of the magnitude of the crisis situation. The Bayanihan spirit among OFW groups and organizations took center stage. Social media, in particular Facebook (FB), played an important role. Those who asked for help using FB were assisted by online Filipino network groups and other organizations. (We will read some stories of these individuals who do volunteer work online.)

Lessons from the crisis gave way to several innovations. Facebook is now utilized by the POEA. The POEA (Phil-ippine Overseas Employment Administration) requires recruitment agencies in the domestic work sector to have their own FB page so those who would encounter problems and concerns could easily get in touch with them. This is also one way for POEA to monitor them.

Through the initiative of members of the House of Represen-tatives, a Joint Manual of Operations in Providing Assistance to Migrant Workers and Other Filipinos Overseas for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is now available for purposes of implementation during crisis situations.

There were other issues which affected our migrant workers. Foremost among these was the sex-for-flight incidents in which women were allegedly mistreated and coerced to perform indecent acts as requisite to be given their ticket back home. Such abuse of power wielded by those who were supposed to be protectors of our OFWs warranted an investigation in both Senate and House of Representatives.

x

Another issue involving migrant workers and their advocates was the implementation of the PhP550.00 terminal fee by Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA). Once ex-empted from paying the fee, the privilege they once enjoyed was taken away from them. They now have to pay or line up if they want to reimburse it.

In the heels of the above controversy is the new policy of the Bureau of Customs which requires the opening of Balik-bayan boxes. The BOC believes that they are being used for the smuggling of goods that should be taxed. This created a massive uproar among OFWs and their families amidst allegations of pilferage and missing boxes.

Another development is the case filed by PMRW on OWWAs (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) Omnibus Policy. The case was lodged from the Pasay Regional Trial Court (RTC) but was dismissed due to alleged lack of jurisdiction. PMRW appealed the case to the Supreme Court (SC) and it took all of 10 years to review, only to be remanded back to the Pasay RTC. ( The SC decision was only received by PMRW on January 20, 2015.)

Equally important are the pressing and compounding challenges that our seafarers have to deal with on a regular basis. There is a perceived lack of political will in the lead-ership of Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA). It has failed to fully address the concerns which the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) have pointed out twice in their evaluations made in 2006 and 2010. Through RA 10635, MARINA has now become a one-stop shop for all maritime and seafaring matters, but the agency cannot seem to cope with the demands of their new mandate. The worst indicator is the noted decline of deployment which, when multiplied in terms of benefits to dependents, translates to a big loss.

President Aquino, failed to mention OFWs for their economic contribution in the six SONAs (State of the Nation Address) that he delivered. Our Bagong Bayani deserves appreciation of their contribution to the Philippine economy.

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There are never ending concerns which OFWs and their families have to contend with, and this book mirrors such commitment to enlighten, inform and inspire. Most of all, this compilation is a dedication and celebration of the lives of our migrant Filipinos and OFWs who are more than the Bagong Bayani. They are truly world class heroes.

Carmelita G. NuquiPresident, PMRW

xii

About the Book

It is not easy to write and tell your personal story publicly. In particular, it is difficult to recall the dark past that brings back agony and pain. So it is admirable for those few who are courageous enough to share their stories to enlighten and inspire others who want to go abroad. Moreover, their tales serve to affirm those who have concerns with reintegration back home.

This is the fifth volume of the Migrants Stories, Migrants Voices series. This edition features 10 stories of migrants and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Though we have read and learned from similar stories in past volumes, each story is unique, each tale a testament of the redeeming nature of their triumph. They rose from poverty to what most of them have now - a better life not only for themselves or their immediate families, but for their extended families and communities as well.

The Philippine Migrants Rights Watch (PMRW) will continue to publish these series of migration stories. It is our hope that with this publication, our stakeholders will have a deeper appreciation and understanding of the nuances and intricacies of migration and the plight of our migrants and OFWs. It is our goal that with these stories, appropriate programs and policies are put into place to uphold and protect their rights. It is also our desire that our OFWs will feel the recognition and appreciation from their loved ones, which they rightfully deserve.

xiii

The Stories

The featured articles in this volume may be typical OFW tales. But what makes them different, is that they are intimate sto-ries written from the hearts and minds of our Bagong Bayani (New Heroes). They are those who struggle to win their own personal battles in their desire to provide for their own family. They have never desired the label heroes but they will, to a great extent prove to their families that they are indeed real heroes. Below are ten OFW stories of brave men and women, both land-based and sea-based, temporary, permanent and even one of a daring undocumented worker.

Jebee Kenji De La Cruz Solis, chemist, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Kenji is first and foremost a husband to Shiela, and father to their kids Hevyn and Gael. He started as a blogger, writing his personal and family ex-periences as an OFW to educate and inspire others. He is the founding chairman of the

Pinoy Expats/OFW Blog Awards (PEBA) that started as an award giving body and now transformed as a platform for the OFWs in the social media (Facebook) for the protection and promotion of migrant workers rights.

Esther A. Quiba, caregiver, Qatar. Educational attainment for their children is a prized trophy for most OFWs. Esther has been an OFW for 30 years as a domestic worker and caregiver. She has gone through ordeals just to provide a good education for her daughter. Esther is

currently with a good employer and taking care of her ward with autism. Her free time is spent with online volunteer work and advocacy for other migrant workers.

xv

Katherine R. Millares, domestic worker, Ku-wait. For her, domestic work is a decent job. Through her work she was able to send her brother to school who now has a stable and good job in the Philippines. According to Katherine, she will always be proud of OFWs who leave home just so they could give their

families better lives.

Cecilio E. Rahon, Jr., seafarer, Captain. Like any parent, raising kids is one of the many big challenges of an OFW parent. Capt. Rahon would see to it that whenever he is on vaca-tion, he balances his attendance in trainings and schooling for his career advancement,

with spending quality time for his kids.

Alberto B. Ballares, seafarer, Chief-Engineer. Alberto claims that the Blessed Virgin Moth-er appeared to him. Since the apparition, he has been a firm believer of the Blessed Mothers wonders and miracles. Whenever he encounters problems, Engr. Ballares would just invoke Mama Marys name and support

and assistance would come his way. Now at the peak of his career, he hopes that his kids would finish their studies with the guidance of the Blessed Mother.

Eunice Barbara C. Novio and Josemari V. Cordova, teachers, Thailand. Our Journey in the Land of Smiles, is the story of a husband and wife. The couple narrates their struggle in raising their kids while living away from them to earn for the familys upkeep. They also relate the challenges of having their son

appreciate his Filipino heritage and nationalism, while living in a country with a different culture and tradition.

xvi

Annie A. Cabansag, domestic worker, Singa-pore. She considers her life as a domestic worker to be very challenging but she never regrets working abroad to support her family. She has learned the importance of financial literacy and she encourages OFWs to save and invest for their reintegration once they stop working abroad.

Gennie V. Kim, radio broadcaster, South Korea. She left her husband who preferred to stay in the Phil-ippines and brought her son to South Korea. As a marriage migrant, she went through the hardships of working in a factory; doing volunteering work and counseling. She is currently engaged in her passion of being of help to others as a self-made

radio broadcaster. Through her radio program, she provides infor-mation for those who want to go to South Korea as well as Filipino music to ease the homesickness of OFWs and Filipino migrant wives. She also facilitates social welfare assistance to Filipinos living in Korea.

Rodel L. Portulazo, factory worker, South Korea. Selfless, he gave up a lot of his personal interests to perform his role as a dutiful provider for his family. His present situation as undocumented worker does not deter him from pursuing his passions: interests in photography and church

volunteer work. After working undocumented in South Korea for almost a decade, he is now looking forward to see his homeland, the Philippines.

Gemma B. Comiso, caretaker, Taiwan. Her sto-ry is concluded by a sad poem entitled Jaded. Despite its melancholic theme, she believes that the past helped her to become a better person. She believes she is stronger and more resilient. She also considers that everyone is capable of overcoming their issues and struggles even in

the most jaded circumstance of ones life. The key to transcend it is dedication to personal empowerment and development.

xvii

Jebee Kenji De La Cruz Solis 1

1 Inspired and Inspiring OFWs

Jebee Kenji De La Cruz Solis

I was born in the Southern part of Mindanao, the eldest among four siblings. Our father left us when I was six and our mother died of cancer when I was in high school. Because of our familys circumstances, I learned the dignity of working hard at an early age.

I was so poor that I graduated in high school through the help of my group of friends. I called them INCREDIBLE. My


late guidance counselor-teacher even paid for my scholarship exam fee worth PhP35. Fortunately, I passed the exams and was admitted to the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology. I had to work as a househelp during my stay in Iligan because I did not know anyone there. I cleaned the house, washed dishes, and fed pigs in exchange for meals and lodging. I was a kasambahay and scholar in one.

When school became difficult and the housework became taxing, I decided to use my stipend for a bed space in a board-ing house. My money was not enough and it only lasted six months in such an arrangement, until someone adopted me. I helped in the household chores in exchange for a meager allowance that was not even enough to pay for my fare. I had to walk several kilometers to save on transportation expenses.

I was convinced even at that time, that sacrifices will bring blessings. If not immediately, then someday. I was also determined to finish my studies because I firmly believe that education unlocks the door of opportunities. This was my motivation and inspiration so that I can realize my dreams and be able to help my siblings realize theirs. Fortunately, I was elected president of our college class because of the lead-ership I had shown. I graduated and received the universitys leadership award.

After graduation, I landed a job in Cebu and later trans-ferred to Manila as a young chemist. I continuously searched for better employment until I was employed as a junior chemist for a water treatment facility in Pasay City. After five months, I received an unexpected call for a job offer abroad. I informed the caller that I had not applied for work abroad. The caller turned out to be the former HR Manager of one of the compa-


nies where I had submitted my resume. She was already part of a recruitment company sending workers abroad. I reported for the interview, got accepted, and three weeks after, I was bound for Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

I arrived on September 23, 2004. It was the Saudi National Day, the day I became an Overseas Filipino Worker. I vividly remember that foreboding anticipation when I was left behind at that time. Most of the passengers in my flight were already fetched by their employers. Some fellow OFWs gave me money to call my contacts and to buy food. Since I was the youngest and a first timer; they were concerned about my situation. I kept calling the company that hired me but to no avail. I had to sleep in the airport. It was only through the graciousness of some friends, that I was able to leave and later settled in my office.

I became a part of an all-Filipino team that was commis-sioned to build a water bottling company. All my other five colleagues were former OFWs who were in their mid-40s and 50s already. I was the newbie. I realized then that we OFWs need a lot of provisions when going abroad among them, a strong determination, faith, patience, understanding, and hu-mility. Loneliness and boredom were just some of the obstacles that I needed to face and overcome.

In the course of my work I had a chance to deal with different nationalities. Once, there was this Italian engineer named Tiziano who worked and stayed in the plant for a week. He has traveled the world because of the nature of his job. He has a wonderful family living in Milan, Italy. We were having a conversation one day, about family and his country, when he asked me how old I was. I replied, 28. He then asked me why I was in Saudi Arabia. I asked him what he meant and he


explained that since Im young, I should be in my home country swimming in our beautiful beaches, flirting with pretty ladies, and enjoying the best years of my life. I was taken aback by his remark but I just smiled. Our definition of living our lives to the fullest differ.

To defeat boredom, I started blogging about my life and my thoughts about Saudi Arabia. Thoughtskoto (www.jbsolis.com) was born in 2005. After three years of blogging, my wife (who later joined me in Saudi Arabia) and I decided to create our own blogging award. At that time, the Philippine Blog Awards was also being established and Thoughtskoto was nominated in the Bloggers Choice Awards. However, when my wife and I looked at the roster of nominated blogs we were surprised not to find other blogs from other OFWs. Aware that there were many bloggers around the globe linked to our blog, we then decided to make our own award for those wonderful and inspiring bloggers.

We named it Pinoy Expats/OFWs Blog Awards (PEBA). The organization serves not just to recognize and honor the best and inspiring OFWs and expats stories through their blogs and creative skills, but also to become the voice of OFWs in the social media, particularly on Facebook. It is registered under SEC and BIR as a non-stock, non-profit organization.

We started with a handful of volunteers. I tapped the sup-port of some bloggers to be my partners in our first run. Among them were Pete Rahon, an OFW based in South Korea; Lionel Gonzaga, an OFW from Dubai; and NJ Abad who is based in Jeddah. The online nomination, judging, and awarding were done successfully through the collective efforts of individuals from different parts of the globe that formed the core members


of PEBA.

Today, PEBA has evolved as an international organization of OFWs which provides sound, clear, and consistent advocacy initiatives on important issues affecting them, their families, and the nation.

So what makes PEBA unique and different? I would like to answer that with a quote from the 2010 opening entry of PEBA president, NJ Abad: PEBA will not just be an organization that will give annual awards for exemplary blogs but it will proactively act on issues that will make a difference in peoples lives, especially the young children, and the OFWs and their families. Being a non-profit organization, proceeds from any of our activities and other funds raised were judiciously spent for the awarding expenses; scholarships for outstanding yet poor students; and for PEBA projects like PEBA CARES and PEBA HELP, the social arm of PEBA in helping distressed OFWs around the globe.

Given the credibility that the organization has achieved both online and offline, PEBA continues to make a stand on issues that directly concern and affect OFWs and their families. In 2008, we established the blog awards. By 2009, we have already emphasized the OFWs role in our country and the good we are doing around the world.

In 2010, we made a stand on one of the biggest issues that confronts OFWs: family disintegration. It is a sad reality with its complex and compounding social cost to the nation and Filipino culture. I do not know how we can stop it but we continue to explore possibilities and ways of alleviating them, particularly through the use of social media.


Together with the hardworking and dedicated PEBA administrators in more than 24 countries, the organization has become a popular and recognized hub of OFWs in social media with over 300,000 followers on Facebook and Twitter. PEBA posts reach more than 75 countries, and there are millions who participate on a weekly basis - sharing, commenting on, and expressing their likes to, our postings. On the issue of the Balikbayan Box*, for example, our postings reached up to 16 million participants with more than 4 million total likes, shares, and comments on our posts during the height of the issue. With the potent presence of OFWs online, I am hoping that it would be translated to political power in electing public officials who have the welfare of OFWs and their families in their hearts and minds.

*The issue stemmed from the Bureau of Customs Memorandum Circular to open Balikbayan Boxes (box containing items or goods like canned foods, soap bars, lotions, perfumes, shoes, t-shirts among others collected over time and sent by OFWs through a forwarding/cargo com-pany to their families in the Philippines) which were allegedly being used for smuggling purposes.

Esther A. Quiba 7

2 Behind the smile, a hidden sorrow Esther A. Quiba

In each gleeful laughter, the heart experiences contentment. In every sacrifice, theres a goal to reach. In every luxurious treat, theres a pain disguised. Behind the smiles are hidden sorrows.

Why are there OFWs? No easy answer! Some may be happy to share their stories, but others are unwilling, and when forced, they have to fabricate and invent tales to make them feel better.

8 Behind the smile, a hidden sorrow

I am called a hero in our country. I am a simple and ordi-nary citizen - a daughter able to deal with loneliness; a mother capable of giving; a wife ready to sacrifice for her loved ones.

Poverty was the reason why I left the country in 1984 to work in Brunei at the age of 24. In my journey, my simple dream was to provide a better life and prosperity for my family. Although I am a college graduate, it was not easy to get a job. To provide for my family, I had to be away from them. Unsure of what might happen, only my determination and trust in the Lord kept me strong.

For the first week of my stay abroad I felt as if I was on a different planet. I had to adjust since the working conditions were also challenging. I could hardly eat the food and the weather was totally different from the one I am familiar with.

Foremost was the difficulty of understanding and dealing with the attitude of other nationalities and culture. I found that the life of an OFW is not easy. It was not the life I imagined it to be. It was hard to love something new, particularly doing all the household chores alone, not being able to rest since you have not finished all your work.

I felt like a robot run by a battery and operated by remote. I had no choice but to obey every time a button was pressed. I would tremble and become weak-kneed each time I felt dis-criminated by people around me. I can endure the pain of a tired body but not the thoughts that bring me pain. But since I chose this kind of job, I had to deal with it no matter how difficult it was.

When I was lonely, the photographs of my loved ones kept me company. I would have loved to talk with them often, but

Esther A. Quiba 9

it was only through telegram that I would be able to relay my hello and tell them that I miss them. Sometimes it would take weeks or a month before they were able to read my letters. It was such a big concern when a member of the family got sick and I was not able to visit. There were special occasions I never had a chance to attend.

All I could do then was to think that soon any time, any day, any week or any year my contract would end.

Even if I wanted to go home, it was not possible. I would just imagine the possibility of swimming the vast ocean or flying on the wings of a plane just to visit my family. It was not easy to sacrifice. But I knew that everything I did was for my loved ones future.

Although life abroad was difficult, still there was joy that matched each moment of loneliness. I spent eight years in Brunei and I was able to help my parents, siblings and other relatives. I believe that all my sacrifices were worth it. Knowing that they are happy also made me happy.

After eight years as an OFW, however, I decided to come back. I was glad but sad at the same time. I was glad because after a long time of loneliness away from my family, I had a chance to be with them. When they received me with their smiles, all my sorrows melted away. On the other hand, I was sad because for eight years, I was not able to save for myself. My family did not know that every pay day and end of con-tract, only receipts remained folded in my pocket. I am a single mother, blessed with an only child. I felt the painful truth that even if we were together there would be a void and emptiness if I were not able to provide for my daughter.

It was not an easy decision to make. I was not able to raise


my daughter. My presence and love were missing since I was too far away from her. There was that constant fear of her go-ing astray, becoming rebellious, and growing up lacking the guidance of parents. But my biggest concern was her future. Nothing would happen if I decided to stay with my daughter since we did not have enough money to live on. For that reason, I decided to work abroad again.

This time I applied for work in Singapore as a domestic worker. It was a painful experience since my employer had a bad attitude. I experienced getting sick because of fatigue and overwork. I thought I would be able to finish my contract and extend my patience; but, after a year and a half I ran away and went to the Philippine embassy to ask for help. God was kind and I met a person who was instrumental in sending me home to my family. I am grateful to that person.

While my daughter was growing up, her financial needs were also increasing. Again, despite my fear of going away, it was overpowered by my desire to provide for my daughters future. I did not want her to suffer the same fate I had. I de-cided to go to Kuwait.

Upon setting foot in that country, my fear doubled. There were so many grim and harrowing stories experienced by OFWs in Kuwait. I went through another adjustment period. The place is totally different from where I have been. This time it is a desert. The climate is extreme. During winter, it can get very cold, like living inside a fridge. On the other hand, it is very hot during summer. It is as if the sun is your neighbor, the extreme heat sometimes induces headaches.

In Kuwait, my employers abused me. They were so heart-less that they kept me locked inside the house. They would hide

Esther A. Quiba 11

food from me. They made me work like a slave animal. They would slap me and I will never forget one time when I almost fell down the steep stairs while they were hitting me. If they were still not contented with punishing me, they would hide food to keep me hungry. I would scavenge for their left-overs and if unlucky, I had to go to the extent of digging the trash can just to find some food.

I experienced all kinds of their inhumane treatment. In my self-pity I blamed myself and regretted choosing to leave my daughter behind just to go through such an ordeal. At that time, I did not have any other choice anymore. I was cut-off from any outside communication and prayers were my only hope.

One day God answered my prayers. While doing my chores, my mobile phone, which was hidden by my employ-er, suddenly rang. My agency unexpectedly called and asked about my situation. I told them my ordeal and asked for their help before something bad happened to me. Finally I was freed.

I prayed that I did not have to go through the same expe-rience again. A new employer took me in. She has a daughter named Lulu. While the kid was growing up it was discovered that she was autistic. She would strike or kick me whenever she would go on a tantrum. I ended up with bruises, scratches, and sometimes even bites. Living with a special child was a new challenge for my strength and patience. It was not easy to understand her, but despite her condition, I chose to care for her. In three years, the family, especially their daughter, became so close to me.

I consider them my second family. Both mother and daughter became dear to me because they showed the same love for me. They would always tell me that they need me. I


would stand as a surrogate mother to Lulu whom I raised as my own daughter.

I have worked for them for the last 10 years because they were so nice to me. They have helped me lead a better life. Because of them, I was able to provide for my daughter. She had since finished her schooling and now has a good job. I was also able to provide for the education of my other relatives.

In my more than 30 years of work abroad I learned a lot despite

the hardship I went through. I may not have built a mansion, but the biggest prize for me is to see my daughter complete her studies. It feels like heaven in our bungalow whenever we are complete as a family.

As they always say, there are no such words as I am tired for a parent like me. For every sacrifice, there is a sweet reward at the end. It is so fulfilling to remain standing and not give up.

At present, I am blessed with a new partner to complete my

happiness. Moreover, I became a member and administrator of a social media community group called Pinoy Expats/OFW Blog Awards (PEBA ) that provides assistance to other OFWs. I actively participate in sharing information for OFWs in our on-line advocacy.

I hope that my story and experience will serve as an example for other OFWs. I believe that God will always bless us with good health, and an endless determination to face all of lifes challenges. God is good. Never lose hope. With Gods grace all difficulties could be forgotten with each passing day. With the struggles I went through, I am convinced that He is always there, ready to embrace us whenever we need help. He will not give us challenges that we will not be able to deal with. God will never abandon us and will always be on our side. We can also depend on our family who will always be there to love us.

Katherine R. Millares 13

3 Domestic work is a decent job

Katherine R. Millares

I still remember that day when my maternal uncle asked me why I wanted to work abroad. I had simply answered, I just want to. The truth is I just wanted to escape the kind of life that I had. After taking a two-year computer course through the support of some relatives, I worked for only a year in a construction company, and then I resigned

The following year, a friend of mine asked me if I wanted to work as a domestic worker in Lebanon and I eagerly said yes. I met the owner of the Lebanon-based agency in a hotel


lobby in Malate where he was staying. He interviewed me and my documents were processed the following day.

I visited my uncle for the last time before leaving the coun-try for Lebanon. On March 2006, I arrived in Beirut.

Being a first timer is never easy. I had to adjust to the food, climate, language, traditions. Moreover, although I knew for a fact that household chores are done differently in other coun-tries, in my situation, I had to relearn and do them according to my Madams instructions. But since I was determined to embrace their culture and my new situation, I was able to adjust and things became easier for me after a few months.

When I first met my employer, I had initially thought that my contract would last for two years. But I was wrong. My Madam had become hot tempered and was not happy with my work. One time, she hit me with a broom while I was cleaning the windows. I just stood still and never cried during the incident. I tried my best to keep my composure. After only seven months, I was sent back to the recruitment agency. I had to explain what had happened. Thank God I was freed from such an oppressive situation and was given an opportunity to find a new employer.

It was in 2006 when the civil war hit the country and some Filipinos ran to the Philippine Embassy so that they could go home. But I chose to stay put. After a few weeks of staying in my agency, I was assigned to a new employer.

This time my employer was a retired diplomat. Only he and his wife (who was then working) lived together because their children were based in Canada. Although the house they


occupied was big, I had no problem cleaning and arranging stuff because I enjoyed doing them.

Aside from household chores, my responsibilities included gardening and fruit picking in their farm. It was my first time to learn those skills. It was fun, educational and I loved it.

One of the challenges of the job was cooking or preparing meals. I never cooked in the Philippines. I did not know how to cook and I did not have the passion for cooking. I was not proud of it but I could not fake something just to impress or make them believe that I was good at it. My employer, on the other hand, loved to cook, so he patiently taught me how to prepare Lebanese food.

After a few months of working in their home I called my uncle in the Philippines to ask if we can start a small business. But my uncle suggested that I send my youngest brother to college instead so that he could continue his course in Archi-tecture. (My mother had passed away a long time ago and my relatives, especially my uncle, had become our guardian. He accommodated my youngest brother in his house in Valenzuela City while I provided for his allowance and tuition fees. My father lived in Manila with my eldest brother.) I had kept all my salary from my first employer while I budgeted my earnings from my second employer. I would save part of my income and send the rest to my family. I would call home from time to time.

My focus was my family back home. Back then I never entertained the idea of falling in love. While some men showed interest, I had managed to keep distance and treated them only as friends. I knew my limitations and priorities in life. Living abroad entailed a lot of difficulties and challenges. I had to be strong. Besides, I felt I was not mature enough to be in a


romantic relationship.

I tried to hide the pain and hardship I was going through because I did not want my family to be concerned about me. I always believe that my mother would be happy if I am also happy. Some people I know in the Philippines think that our life here abroad is a bed of happiness and money. If they only knew the kind of loneliness we go through each day. Never-theless, my life abroad has made me more mature and a better person than what I used to be.

After two and a half years with my employer, I sought refuge at the Philippine Embassy. My employer had just hit my face one day. I ran to my room and cried. I talked to his wife but she prevented me from filing a legal complaint against her husband. I stayed at the embassy shelter for three months.

My stay in the shelter was one of the most difficult parts of my life as an OFW. There were almost 100 of us, Filipina OFWS, with different cases of maltreatment and abuse. My situation was compounded by the fact that my youngest brother had dropped out of school. I prayed every day that one day I would be with my family again. I could not think straight. Thoughts were racing through my mind: What is going to happen to me here? How will I survive? How about the other OFWs here? How are they going to live? I must say that my experience at the shelter had taught me to be stronger and smarter in life.

In 2009, I returned to the Philippines to start a new life but after some time I tried my luck abroad again. I wanted my brother to finish his four year course. Hence, in 2010, I travelled to Kuwait to work. Unfortunately, my brother did not want to go back to school. After reaching his third year in college, he had decided to look for a job instead. I am proud of him so I re-


ally made sure that I could provide him the support he needed.

The salary I earned in Kuwait was sent to any family mem-ber who needed money. Honestly I did not have any savings. My first employer in Kuwait was strict but I still managed to do my job. But perhaps I was not just so lucky. Again, I was sent back to my recruitment agency after nine months. I was sold by my employer to another recruitment agency to find a new job. And this time I thank God that he had sent me a wonderful employer.

From 2011 up to the present I am still working for the same boss, and in 2012, I became a Patnubay Riyadh Online Volunteer for Kuwait. As trainee of Sir Joseph Espiritu, I became more aware of the human rights of OFWs. I assist and handle some cases in the Middle East coming from KSA, Kuwait, UAE, Jor-dan, Qatar, Bahrain, among others. These are cases of abuse, maltreatment and imprisonment. I would spend even my own money to make calls to their mobile phones or send them chat messages via Facebook (FB). I do my best to let them feel that there is hope and encourage them to assert their rights as OFWs.

I help evaluate their requests for assistance and send them to the embassy, POLO (Philippine Overseas Labor Office), or OWWA. I also check inbox messages on Patnubays FB page for some inquiries. I post links of informative news, articles and other educational stories. Throughout my journey in Patnubay Riyadh, I am so thankful that I am able to provide advice, hope and care to OFWs who come to us in need of help.

FB has become the easiest way for OFWs to connect with one another and their families. It is also a platform to do ad-vocacy for OFWs. Hence, in 2013 I expanded my engagement and online volunteer work by becoming an administrator of


the Pinoy Expats/OFW Blog Awards (PEBA). Through the trust of Sir Jebee Solis based in Jeddah, KSA, I became part of one of the most popular and active social media groups on FB. I had promised myself that, after having gone through the same hardships that distressed OFWs have to undergo, I will help make their lives easier for as long as I live.

Through my hard work and sacrifice abroad, my youngest brother was able to get a very good job. He currently works as a supervisor in a company in Makati. He is earning well and is capable of supporting our fathers need. His company even extends free medical and health services for our father as his beneficiary. He is also starting to pursue his dream and career in photography. My eldest brother, on the other hand, now has his own family.

Our family dreams of having our own house someday so we do not have to rent anymore. I also plan to invest in agri-culture, particularly rice farming, but it all depends on finding time and managing my expenses. As for my personal life, I am currently happy and in love with my boyfriend even if it is a long distance relationship.

I am an OFW, and even if people look down on household service workers or domestic workers, I want to prove them wrong. I am proud because my job is decent. And as an OFW, I will always be proud of every Filipino who leaves their families behind, takes risks to work at some foreign land, just to give their family a better life.

Capt. Cecilio E. Rahon Jr. 19

4 In my fathers shoes Capt. Cecilio E. Rahon Jr.

I remember having a fatherless childhood because my father was a seaman. He was always absent and out of the picture most of the time. I then resolved never to be a seaman.

One time, my fathers ship came to the Philippines with foreign officers and a Filipino crew on board. My mother and I travelled all the way from Ilocos Norte just to visit him in Manila Bay where the vessel was anchored. I was in my ele-mentary days then and I can still recall the experience. I got sick when I had a tour of the engine room where my father worked. That incident was strike two for me to never venture

20 In my fathers shoes

into seafaring as a future career.

Fast forward to 2015, I am now a father of two children and a seaman myself. What changed my perspective for this profession?

My parents have always believed in a good education. I studied in a provincial science high school in Laoag City. I stayed in a boarding house since our hometown was at least an hours drive away from where I studied. I had planned to take up veterinary medicine at the University of the Philip-pines, Los Baos campus, (UPLB). Unfortunately, I was not able to take the UPCAT (University of the Philippines College Achievement Test) or entrance exam since I had already spent my allowance for that week.

Instead, I enrolled in Bachelor of Science Major in Maritime Studies in one of the private schools in Manila. The schools slogan that I read in the newspaper advertisement was, See the World Free. That was very tempting for a young adventurous person who dreamt of stepping on foreign shores and meeting diverse groups of people.

My father did not encourage me to take up this course. It was my mother who broached the idea. One summer, before the opening of the first semester, my mother told me that I still have other siblings that will need my help in sending them to school. (In our culture, it is the responsibility of the older siblings to help the younger ones to finish their education, especially when parents could not fulfill such responsibilities anymore.)

I finished my three-year academic schooling without much trouble. Unfortunately, however, the schools building


was razed by fire including the registrars records. It was quite a predicament constructing our grades and looking for our previous instructors. Due to the lack of necessary papers, the college dean turned down my request for a guarantee letter so that I can take a scholarship to a maritime cadetship to Japan that year. Hence, it took a longer time for me to process my documents.

After arduous months of waiting and completing all the requirements, I was able to take and pass the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) cadetship program. I belonged to the third batch. The cadets came from different maritime schools in the Philippines. We stayed at the Philippine Merchant Ma-rine Academy (PMMA) for two weeks prior to our departure for Japan. We were treated like regular PMMA cadets. We did the exercises and other activities of a regimented life inside a military academy. My body ached from the exercises but later adapted to it. Discipline and orderliness were emphasized.

When we arrived in Japan, we still had the mentality of a military cadet. We stood still and sat up straight and were very quiet in the classroom. The Japanese instructors in the school told us to ease up because they felt intimidated. We stayed for about two months in the Marine Technical College (Kaigi Daigakko) in Ashiya, Hyogo Ken. While waiting for our respective ships to arrive in Japan, we studied college core subjects as refresher courses, including the Japanese language and culture

The schools dormitory was located near a housing com-plex. I observed that the streets were always deserted. Even the homes always seemed empty and quiet though the lights inside the houses were turned on. The municipal librarys books, audio and video collections were impressive. I always


went there to watch classical movies like War and Peace and Gone with the Wind. I would stay there for hours when I did not have my regular classes. The dormitory was just walking distance to a mall, secondary school, tennis courts, Junichiro Tanizakis Memorial Museum and other museums. The school also conducted a tour, and together with the other cadets, we visited Kyoto, the old capital city of Japan, and the port of Kobe. In Kyoto we went to see the Kinkakuji Temple, while we took a boat and toured the working port of Kobe.

I was twenty years old when I first went onboard. It was a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) vessel plying Japan- Mid-dle East Asia carrying crude oil. (The ship was just one year younger than me then.) The higher ranking officers were Japa-nese while the junior officers and ratings were Filipinos. In the 1990s, the vessel had a radio officer, chief cook, second cook, messman for officers and one messman for ratings.

Nowadays, ship owners observe the minimum manning requirement per flag state where the vessel is registered. Some of the crew complements were removed to reduce the cost of the ships operations. Due to fewer work crew, the workload became heavier. With the advent of more regulations imposed by maritime organizations for safety and security reasons, more paperwork and documentation needed to be accomplished. Technology required job automation which required a steep learning curve for non-techies. It also made the vessels turn-around in port faster, giving no respite to seafarers who like to go for a shore leave.

The policing of the Port State Control became a venue for corruption in some countries. As officer of the vessel, you would never want your ship to have deficiencies, so one can


negotiate for a clean chit. Sometimes ship management makes a stand against these kinds of practices and the problem is reverted back to the ship captain for him to solve. Port stay for seafarers is becoming more stressful because cargo operations, bunkering, provisioning, inspection and emergency repairs, would happen almost all at the same time.

With regard to my family life, I have two teenage kids. My wife died way back in 2010 but I am very lucky that my sister looks after my children. I missed their growing up years due to my work. Fortunately, online mail is now available on-board so I would send my kids email on a daily basis. I also call them weekly using the vessels satellite phone to keep in touch with them.

Being a guilty absentee parent, I would substitute my presence with presents. I would usually treat my children to out-of-town swimming and overnight stays in resorts, or visit museums and nearby interesting places in the Philippines. I always tell them that it is better to see the beauty of the country first before going abroad for vacations. Recognizing the impor-tance of an extended family, I would always look forward to the usual little get together meal with the rest of my siblings and their children, whenever I arrive from my stint onboard. This is a time to be reunited, bond and talk about life and plans of the rest of the members of the family.

There was no turning back for me after my apprenticeship program in maritime studies. Being now in my fathers shoes, I also long for my family whenever I am on-board or in the middle of tempest at sea, far away from my kids. I missed birthdays, anniversaries, and funerals of close relatives, as well as graduations and school events of my children.


At 43 years old, I am presently taking up Master in Maritime Administration Specializing in Maritime Education, Training and Certification. Once I finish my graduate studies, I will be qualified to become a maritime instructor in case I opt to stay on land for an extended period of time. It is also a preparation for my retirement. I want to be active in this profession in one way or another, for as long as I can.

Like my parents I also put a premium on education. I believe that quality maritime education is the key for the country to keep its number one position as the preferred manning capital of the world. I have been asked by parents and relatives of maritime ca-dets to assist them in getting an on-board experience, although this is supposed to be the duty of the maritime schools. In shipping, there is an issue of the lack of maritime officers and a dispropor-tionately oversupply of graduates of maritime courses. Finding solutions to address this dilemma will help solve the sourcing of capable seafarers by the maritime industry as a whole, as well as the employment problems of young people in the country. This is going to be my advocacy and I do hope to make a difference.

I have experienced fair and bad weather. I have lived through our ship being swayed by big waves or chased by pirates. I have worked through extreme heat and cold conditions. I have faced discrimination but also the kindness of those I have met overseas.

In one way or another, I was able to help my siblings finish their education. Although I was not able to study in UPLB, I managed to send one of them there. I have mentored younger seafarers for them to understand the intricacies of our job and I am happy to see them rise from the ranks as cadets to officers. I traded a lot to be in my present position but I hope that someday, my children will understand the sacrifices that I did. Just like my father did before me.

Chief Engr. Alberto B. Ballares 25

5 Faithful to Mama Mary Chief Engr. Alberto B. Ballares

I was born to a poor family in Bohol, the eldest of two brothers and a sister. My father is a farmer and our mother is the most dutiful housewife I know. Early on in life we were already trained to do household chores. We are a religious family. We celebrate fiestas even if we have to walk for about six kilometers, just to attend the mass. Such was the simple and happy life we had despite our economic condition.

I was second year high school then, when, one night while in bed, I had a vision of Mama Mary. Her crowns rays of light were so bright for me to be able to see her beautiful image.

26 Faithful to Mama Mary

From that day on Mama Mary became part of my daily life and I would always pray to her.

I was already 22 years of age when I finished my high school studies. Then, in exchange for working for the children of a former employer, I was given the opportunity to study in college. I travelled to Manila and enrolled at the Philippine Maritime Institute graduating at the age of 26. I approached some heads of government departments to ask for recommen-dations to local shipping lines.

On January 31, 1978 I was accepted at Sweetlines Inc., at their Cebu office. I was assigned on board MV Sweet Loves as apprentice engineer. One Sunday, while our ship was put on repair for three months in Mandaue, Cebu, the personnel manager came on board. He was looking for available engine staff to serve as temporary oiler of the new cargo ship that just arrived from Japan. At that time, I was just on board resting since I did not have money to go around. I volunteered and luckily got accepted. Due to my diligence and good perfor-mance, I became a regular employee of the company.

At the age of 28, I took my fourth engineer examination and passed thru Gods grace. But my big break happened when I went home due to a tooth problem. The lady dentist inquired about my work and offered to help me get on board a foreign vessel. She gave me a good recommendation addressed to her friends of a manning company in Manila. In more than two weeks, after preparing all the necessary documents, I saw my name in the companys bulletin board with my vessel assign-ment. I signed my first contract for a German ship, with the position of motorman and my salary in dollars.


I visited Luneta Park, thinking of my good fortune. I could not help control the tears which flowed from my eyes. I thanked Mama Mary for her unending help to me. On March 7, 1980 I joined my first foreign vessel. I learned from this experience that if you keep doing well you will definitely reap good fruits. I also learned not to expect anything but instead pray and thank Mama Mary for all her blessings.

Aboard my first foreign vessel, I realized the importance of communication skills since most of our officers were German nationals. They were also very strict in all aspects of work. It so happened that my first engineer was with the German army during World War II so he was very disciplined.

My second assignment was in a big super tanker owned by an American company that plies the Atlantic Ocean. The salary was good which was commensurate with the challenge and danger of the work. One time the main engine was put on emergency stop in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. It took time for the foreign engineers to diagnose and find the trouble, so I suggested a practical solution to our Japanese Chief Engineer. My recommendation was implemented and the engine started immediately. Unfortunately, however, our Chief Engineer did not acknowledge what I have done.

My third foreign vessel was a tanker with friendly British officers. It contained very risky cargo so the salary was quite high. The voyage was along the Atlantic Ocean. One time, we encountered a problem. The steering block slipped out and fell down so the engine stopped in the middle of the ocean. During lunchtime, I had an idea about how to solve the problem so I quickly finished my lunch and proceeded to the engine room. Before the engine staff came back, the problem had already


been remedied. The Chief Engineer praised me for the good job. I thanked God and Mama Mary for always guiding me.

In my seventh vessel, I was promoted to third engineer. On board, I was the only bachelor and my co-workers encouraged me to settle down. I wrote to one of our neighbors now living in Mindanao and asked for the hand of any of his daughters. One of his daughters wrote back and we started communicating through letters. We got married when we felt it was time for us to settle down. Following the suggestion of my father-in-law we just had a simple wedding.

When I was second engineer, my chief engineer was Brit-ish. One time while we were at the port of Saudi Arabia he asked me to run the two auxiliary engines so the vessel would be ready in two hours for departure. I started the engine but it did not start because the drive gear fell into the gear box. That created a very big problem since it would take another 10 hours in order to disengage the gear box. Helpless in my predicament, I uttered Mama Marys name for help. Then I tried using a small steel wire and had it lowered deeper into the hole of the gear box. With my eyes closed in prayer, the end of the wire came into contact with the drive gear. In just 30 minutes the problem was solved. I was not able to contain my emotion and I cried and again gave thanks to Mama Mary for all her miracles and wonders.

With the extra money that we saved, my wife and I bought a property close to Cagayan de Oro City. It was our first prop-erty after our marriage. We rented an apartment near the house of my father- in law. On the fourth year of our marriage we were blessed with a baby boy.


On Nov. 11, 1993 we started building our own house. My company had called informing me that I was promoted to Chief Engineer and was advised to report for immediate deployment. I spent a total of eight months on board. When I came back for vacation, we had our very own comfortable home. We also got a car that we would use for sight-seeing. In 1997, my second son was born and in 2000 my wife gave birth to a baby girl which made us all very happy. In 2001, we were blessed with another boy, my fourth child, and our home became even livelier with an additional member of the family.

By 2008, most of my children have grown up and studying. My eldest son had graduated from high school. We bought a lot in a good subdivision located on top of a hill and surrounded by mountains and lots of fresh air. Then we built a two-story house that is more comfortable for our kids. Our home is also close to the church where we always attend mass every Sunday.

Most of my memorable experiences at work were through the help and assistance of Mama Mary. One instance happened at the port of Houston, Texas, in 1998 at 6AM. For some un-known reason, I checked on a tank of the main engine room. It was not part of my task as a Chief Engineer but I did just the same, and to my surprise, the tank was full of water. I immedi-ately called all my engine staff to check the possible reason for the problem. I spoke with the captain and called the attention of the technical manager. I proceeded to the engine room and drained all the water out of the sump tank. I assigned my men to clean and check the coolers. I was able to retrieve 1500 liters of lube oil then purified it and mixed it with 3000 liters of fresh lube oil. The vessel was then scheduled for departure at 1700 hrs and luckily we were able to have the engine ready an hour before departure.


Another happened one afternoon in 2002. While we were in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the second engineer told me that the main engine had stopped. I immediately investigated the problem and found that the feed oil pump had tripped off. I ordered the men to dismantle the pump and found that the bearing was damaged. Unfortunately I was told that the required spare bearing was out of stock. I went to my cabin to think about how to deal with the problem. I could only cry for Mama Marys help since we were in a precarious situation. By chance, however, I opened my drawer and found a bearing. The size happened to be exactly the same size as the damaged one, so the main engine resumed its normal operation.

Again, in 2004, while passing along the Malacca Strait, two pirates armed with guns climbed on board our vessel. Luckily we were on the alert at that time. Everybody assembled on the monkey island (on top of the ship) and the captain on the bridge activated the emergency alarm. The pirates saw what we were ready for them and they did not pursue their bad intention. In such situations, I could only pray and ask the good Lord for help and for Mama Marys mercy.

In 2009 while channeling in California, our main engine experienced trouble and it stopped in the middle of the traffic separation. Not long after, the US Coast Guard came aboard our vessel to verify the situation. I became too preoccupied but never forgot to say my prayers and again asked the guidance of Mama Mary. Having been guided to do the right thing, the main engine went back to its normal operation. I then invited the US Coast Guard to join us for our dinner. I also spoke to the cook to prepare a sumptuous dinner. Satisfied with the nice food and my explanation, he gave us no deficiency. (Officials


usually dread the visit of the Coast Guard for inspection since it would determine whether one can be allowed to stay and leave the port peacefully.)

In June of 2014, while passing in Capetown, South Africa the weather was very bad. Moreover, one of the engine units of the main engine was in critical condition due to scavenge fire. I made a quick investigation and ordered a cleaning. When the weather improved, proper maintenance and overhauling of the affected unit were successfully carried out. When all the necessary job was completed, we resumed the final voyage and luckily no problem recurred. Again, I only have Mama Mary to thank for our safe voyage. Despite weather disturbances we were always protected from danger.

Now that I am already at the peak of my career, I continue to be busy doing my best to realize my plans and fulfill my other dreams. Prayer is a part of my life so every day I would always ask for the continued blessings of the Almighty through Jesus and Mama Mary. In particular I pray that my four obedient and God-fearing children be blessed and successfully finish their studies.

Eunice Barbara C. Novio & Josemari V. Cordova 33

6 Our Journey in the Land of Smiles

Eunice Barbara C. Novio & Josemari V. Cordova

Thailand was never our choice of country if ever we would emigrate. But fate brought us here and eventually our dreams are becoming

realities. Khap khun ma khap, Thailand.

Embarking on a Journey

Josemari:

On May 2009, I received an email from my organization that I needed to go to my placement Thailand. I arrived on June 1, 2009 and was assigned to work with the Policy and


Planning Bureau of the Office of Basic Education Commis-sion (OBEC) under the Ministry of Education in Thailand. My organization had a Memorandum of Agreement with OBEC regarding the documentation of migrant children from neighboring Southeast Asian countries. It was supposed to be just a short-term volunteer placement but it was extended for another six months. When my work was about to end, some Thai friends encouraged me to stay and look for a teaching job, upon knowing that I was an educator in the Philippines. After six years, I am still here, teaching.

I first worked for the PTT (an oil company) education project with ties to Kamphaeng Phet Rajhabhat University in Kamphaeng Phet province. The placement was in a village school in Lankrabue where I taught high school or Matthayom students. This is also the site of Thailands biggest oil field, Queen Sirikit.

Though part of Kamphaeng Phet, Lankrabue is approxi-mately 60 km from the city but only 52 km from Phitsanulok. We decided to rent a house in Phitsanulok since there is a large concentration of Filipinos there and the area is more progres-sive. It was a tough decision which entailed daily motorcycle rides to and from Phitsanulok since my wife and I were both working in Lankrabue. At the same time our youngest son, Kairos, who lived with us, was also studying kindergarten there.

When my contract ended in 2013, I applied in some schools in Phitsanulok and nearby provinces, but to no avail. One time, while visiting a friend in Nakhon Ratchasima I applied at Vongchavalitkul University. Fortunately, I was called for an interview in May and started teaching the following month.


Although I was accepted, one of the most difficult things I had to deal with was my separation from my family. I commut-ed seven hours every week to visit my family in Phitsanulok. In 2014, we decided to move to Nakhon Ratchasima or Korat. My wife resigned from her job at one of the top public universities in Thailand, Naresuan University, giving up her huge salary so we could be a family again. This affected the remittance we would send to our son who was then studying Geology in Bicol. Luckily, my wifes family provided additional support.

I am still with Vongchalitkul University with my wife. Kairos is now in grade 4.

Emigrating to Thailand

Eunice:

In 2009, I was in the middle of my masteral studies, under scholarship at the University of the Philippines in Diliman. Our relatives took care of our three children - Malcolm, who was then aged 11; Karina Thyra, aged 10; and Kairos Luther, aged 4. It was difficult taking care of three growing kids even with the help of my aunts and grandmother. While Josemari was in Thailand, we decided to take our kids there for a one-month vacation. We then realized that only Kairos could readily adapt to the environment.

After I finished my Masters Degree, Kairos and I migrated to Thailand on May 3, 2011. Karl and Karina were already in their second year and first year of high school, respective-ly.


We enrolled Kairos in a Thamada (regular) school, where all subjects were taught in Thai. Government and private schools are mostly Buddhists. Temple visits and meditation time every morning form part of school activities. Aside from learning the language and the scripts, Kairos survived the Thai way of life and embraced Buddhism. He is now fluent in both Thai and English, an advantage he will later use in life, particularly because of the forthcoming full integration of ASEAN.

Raising Kairos in Thailand

While in Phitsanulok, we were lucky to find an apartment owned by Ajarn Sunee, a retired teacher, and Uncle Woody Chom-in, a retired military officer. They treated us like family. Ajarn Sunee became Kairos grandmother, who even tutored and took care of him when I was at work. We stayed there for two years. (Since we moved to Korat, we would make it a point to visit them during long holidays.)

In Korat, we would cook Filipino foods, like adobo, sinigang, tinola, or menudo during weekends to expose Kairos to his Fili-pino heritage. But food sets him apart from his classmates. One time, Kairos told me that his classmates did not want to taste his food because it is Filipino; not spicy, not aroy (delicious). Despite mingling with Thais five days a week, Kairos could still not eat spicy foods. In spite of his looks, his ability to speak and write in Thai, he is still considered a farang (foreigner).

Personal Struggles and Success

When Filipinos get to know that I am a partner of the Cen-ter for Migrant Advocacy, many seek my help - from debts to visa problems and off-loading. Until now, I continue helping


and facilitating matters for Filipinos in distress and link them to the Philippine Embassy. Since 2012, I also started writing regularly for the Global Pinoy Section of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Because of my efforts, I was nominated by the Em-bassy to the Migration and Media Advocacy in 2014.

In Korat, we rented a townhouse and bought a second-hand car. Every Sunday, we would attend mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Church to meet other Filipinos. There is a strong Fili-pino organization in Korat but because my husband and I both work in a University, we hardly have the time to participate.

In the latter part of 2013, I was diagnosed with anxiety dis-order and took medication for a year. (This was also the reason why we moved to Korat.) But these years were also my most productive years. I did a lot of research and my papers were published in journals. These were accepted in international conferences but limited funds allowed me to participate only in those held here in Thailand.

Nationalism and Challenges

In 2015, our daughter also joined us. At present, we are into another phase of our family life. While communication with our daughter during her high school years were only through Facebook and Skype, the dynamics now are different since we are living together. We are all adjusting to each others presence.

In the case of Kairos, we hardly have time to tell Him

about our heroes, like Bonifacio and Rizal, because we are too occupied with work. His heroes are Lady Yamoo of Korat and King Naresuan the Great, who fought the Burmese. One time I caught him waving the Philippine flag while singing Thai-


lands national anthem. My husband and I taught him Lupang Hinirang to let him know the anthem that is associated with the flag. We realized that it is time for him to know Andres Bonifacio, Jose Rizal, and not only Manny Pacquiao (the famous Filipino boxer).

We are raising him in an Asian country, similar to ours, yet also very different. Our people may look the same, but we are still divided by our different beliefs. In this milieu, Kairos and the hundreds of Filipino children in Asian countries are facing similar situations, adapting to the cultures of their host countries, yet still considered outcasts. Thus, it is important for them to build their identities as Filipinos. They need to know our heritage, be it through food, or by simply telling them Tayo ay Pilipino.

Annie A. Cabansag 39

7 I am my work experience Annie A. Cabansag

I am Annie Cabansag. I have been in Singapore since 1997. At age 23, my sister-in-laws cousin encouraged me to work here. They told me that I would earn more and that life here is better than the Philippines. Of course I believed them because they all looked happy and it seemed that they really enjoyed working abroad.

I was then working and receiving a minimal wage but I was contented with my earnings. I kept the money all to myself since I did not have a family to support. But everything changed when

40 I am my work experience

my mother, who was the sole bread winner of the family, got sick. Bills started to pile up and my youngest sibling was then about to enter college. I felt responsible for them because I am the only one they can depend on. My brother has his own family to support and my father had already passed away.

I was not quite ready for the big change in my life, but I had to sacrifice. I consulted some of my close friends, and even a priest and a nun about my plans of working abroad. They were all concerned about me, especially about the country I have chosen to work in.

I had mixed emotions of leaving my job to work abroad be-cause it meant leaving my comfort zone.It broke my heart when I said goodbye to my family and my boyfriend, the love of my life, but I needed to be strong to be able to support my family.

As I boarded the plane my tears fell and I said my prayers. But my sadness turned into joy when the plane started ascend-ing. I felt the excitement of riding a plane for the first time and looking forward to seeing another country with that beautiful image in my mind.

When I arrived in Singapore, the Immigration officer asked me to sign documents. Then my agent brought me to the hospital for medical examination. I had lunch at the agency where I was introduced to my first employer. I would be working for a couple; their two children (a baby aged 5 months and a kid aged 6 years); plus the mother of my female employer. Although my parents had trained me well for house work, I was not prepared for the daily tasks which proved to be physically exhausting. I would hand wash the clothes of five people even if they had a washing machine. I had to clean the floor using my hands. Apart from all


these, I still had to look after the two young children. The kids grandmother who lived with them scrutinized my every move.

My lady boss or her mother would scold me several times each day. Yet I took their criticisms positively and motivated myself to do better. But they continued to abuse me verbally, physically and mentally. They would slap me, kick me, and pull my hair. To make matters worse, they would not give me food so one time, I had to steal a slice of bread and peanut butter spread. I would cry each night but I continued to pray and sing praises to God. I would ask Him to give me the strength to carry on. I was in misery for two harrowing months until God gave me a better chance.

One day, I was sent out to run errands and I took that oppor-tunity to inform my agent about my situation. My agent called my employer and asked to see me immediately, with my bruises and marks still visible. When my agent saw me, she hugged me, and in tears, took me away from my employer and transferred me to another family.

This time my employer turned out to be kind. However, after I had finished my contract, I was told that my services were no longer required since the children were already independent. One was in secondary school and the other was already undergoing his compulsory military service.

With a heavy heart I looked for another family. I was blessed and hired by an employer from the United States of America. Since then, in my eighteen years of working here, all the families I have worked for were families of expatriates in Singapore. I have worked for six expats and for two local families.

42 I am my work experience

Some say that working for expats is a bed of roses, but I know that this is not true based on my own experience. I once worked for a family whose members had difficulties managing their emotions. I felt pressured but I tried to ignore and endure my situation. I almost had a nervous breakdown because of all the screaming and tantrums when the day seemed imperfect for them. But despite all these, I never retaliated or quit my job. Why? Because I always waited for Gods right time. He had gifted me with a fighting spirit. I am not a quitter. I continued to pray and to strive always to be a good worker. And after four years, God heard my prayers. The family moved out of Singapore.

My life as a domestic worker is very challenging because of the variety of people and culture that I have to deal with. There is also the transition of living from one family to the next. Expats do come and go, there is no definite time for their stay in Singapore. I also have to work hard to fight my homesickness and loneliness. But I never feel abandoned by Gods love and grace. I always feel that He blesses me and cares for me. He constantly protects and provides for me.

I have been blessed with generous and kind hearted employers and through them I am able to take evening classes to earn a diplo-ma. God had even helped me fulfill my sisters dream of finishing college. My mother was able to visit me here in Singapore. I have gained friends and I now belong to different religious organizations like the Legion of Mary and Couples for Christ. I consider them my second family.

I do not have any regrets working abroad to support my family, even if it meant losing my boyfriend and going through that unhappy incident with my first employers. I am what I am today because of what I have learned from my work experiences. These have taught me to have a forgiving heart, to be patient, and to be strong. I praise and thank God always despite my life


circumstances.

For those aspiring and wanting to work abroad I advise you to leave the country of your origin as a legal worker possessing the necessary documents. You should have undergone very good training. BE PREPARED! Life abroad is not easy as depicted by some OFWs or as seen in pictures shared in social media such as Facebook and Instagram.

If you get sick, nobody will cook and take care of you. And sometimes, even when you feel unwell, you still need to get up and work. You also need a friend that you can count on. Choose a good community of Filipinos or join and be active in church activities where you can find reliable friends as well.

Also, before you leave, discuss matters on finances and remittanc-es with your family, not only between couples but children as well. There should be openness about how to properly use and save money.

I encourage you to enroll and attend classes on financial educa-tion by such institutions like the International Labour Organization (ILO). For example, I was able to attend a training program on fi-nancial education. It helped me check on my finances which I had neglected for the past years. There are also training courses offered in cooking, baking, being a nursing aide, among others. All these classes could help me in my work and in the future.

OFWs should remember that we will not work abroad forever. There will come a time when we would have to go back home be-cause of our age, health, or when our services are no longer needed. All of us yearn to be with our family and to be with them duringspecial occasions, so start thinking of saving instead of spending. Lastly, we should hold on to our faith in God and always ask for His guidance.

Gennie V. Kim 45

8 Easing Homesickness Through Radio

Gennie V. Kim

I was told that the story of my life makes for good movie material. So here is my personal story. Judge for yourself whether it will pass the silver screen.

I was born in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental but grew up in Cebu City. In 1996, I was managing a boutique when I met my future Korean husband. After four years, we got married and were blessed with a son. In 2003, I decided to bring my


son to South Korea to provide him with a better education and to be rooted to his Korean heritage.

I left my husband in the Philippines believing that he will fulfill his promise to follow us. I lived with my mother-in-law in Juan-dong, Nam-gu District, Incheon City. Strangely though, my husband continued to stay in the Philippines. He never contacted me and I totally lost communication with him for a very long time. But instead of turning hopeless, depressed and abandoned, I decided to make the best of my stay in Korea.

At the start, I had very little knowledge of the Korean language. Language barriers cause a lot of misunderstandings. Among my painful memories stemmed from miscommunica-tion problems with Koreans and fellow immigrants. I soon realized the importance of mastering the language to be able to communicate properly so I resolved to devote myself to learning it.

I had to fight homesickness too, and it was not easy living with my mother-in-law. A few years back, it was rare to see foreigners in Korea. People would look at me whenever I walked around the neighborhood. I would hear the same sto-ries of hardship from other foreigners I met. While Filipinos and South Koreans share many cultural similarities, there are many differences as well.

Part of my early struggle was providing for the family. After I got my spouse visa, I worked in an assembly group for a motor brake shoe factory. It was a dangerous job which entailed piling up seven to eight kilos of steel. After six to eight hours of this back-breaking job, only your eyes could be seen because dust would have covered all of your body. There

Gennie V. Kim 47

were days when I would really cry wanting to give up such hard labor that was both physically and emotionally draining.

Despite the hardships, working in a factory provided me the experience of learning from different cultures. I was exposed to the attitudes of Koreans and other nationalities as well. My Korean workmates would frown at me if I cannot communicate with them properly. During winter, the working conditions could get even more challenging. Working hours were longer and I would endure occasional hunger pangs since I avoided eating outside to be able to save money.

My next job was at a cellphone assembly plant which em-ployed twenty-three Filipinos. Although factory work was not easy, I managed to excel and got noticed in my work. In just one year, I got promoted as a team leader. To my surprise, how-ever, my good performance earned the ire of my co-workers but this situation did not deter me from continuing to do my best.

One good trait among Koreans is their penchant for pro-viding opportunities to maximize your potentials once they discover them. The president of the factory told my manager to have me trained in the Korean language. I made sample prod-ucts of the company that were sent to clients and he wanted me to be more familiar with the machines. Having learned the language, I also became the mouthpiece of Filipino workers in the company. Unfortunately, because of the economic crisis in 2006, the factory suffered and I resigned in October of that year.

Since my mother-in-law would take care of my son, I would dutifully give all my salary to her. One day, however, I discov-ered that my husband was having an affair with a Filipina and had gotten her pregnant. From then on, I worked nonstop and focused on my personal development. I devoted my time to


my son and to volunteer work.

I worked as a marriage counselor at the Womens Human Rights Commission of Korea. While our training provided us skills to address victims of domestic violence, the calls we received ranged from the most trivial concerns to sensitive issues such as working conditions, marital problems, and extra-marital affairs.

In 2010, the Philippine Embassy in Korea held a Philippine Independence Day celebration in Incheon. I was asked to be one of the emcees during the event since I am a resident of the city. I was introduced to the Human Resources Development (HRD) Service of Korea since they had just opened a training program for Employment Permit System (EPS) workers. I then started working as a translator for HRD Incheon every Sunday and I have been doing this for the last five years. I also hold lectures for workers under the EPS. My stint at HRD Korea in Incheon have brought me closer to Filipinos, who would tell me their problems and stories.

I have since gained a wide experience working in public of-fices and in various fields. As an English teacher, for example, I was able to help fellow Filipinos in language interpretation. My exposure helped boost my self-confidence and contributed to my personal growth. I am grateful for all those trainings, workshops, meetings and other educational opportunities where I got to learn new things.

I continued to take on new challenges in life. My insatiable curiosity led me to the DJ booth of the Multicultural Family Music Broadcasting operated by Woongjin Foundation and Digital Skynet. It was something I had wanted to do, to be able to narrate my life and work experiences in Korea which

Gennie V. Kim 49

could be of help to my fellow Filipinos.

In 2011, I guested in a radio program which was then hosted by DJ Regina, a Filipina student on scholarship at Ewha University. The director who happened to listen to the program gave his card and encouraged me to apply for a part-time job in case of a vacancy. I never really took it seriously since I did not have any background in broadcasting.

When there was a job opening, however, I tried my luck though I lacked the qualification for it. I was also competing with other younger Filipino scholars studying in Seoul. For-tunately, they called back and I got the job.

I had to undergo training for three weeks before I finally went on air last March 18, 2013. Since I came from the Visayas, I was so anxious about my Bisayang Tagalog accent. I would feel nervous whenever I did my recording. As I continued doing several segments, however, I became less conscious of my accent and more focused on the benefits that I can give my listeners.

I prepare all my materials from punchlines, audiences stories, and music selection. Even my minutes spent commut-ing are used to research on news to be shared to my listeners. I take no breaks even on Christmas Eve I would be recording my program while playing Christmas songs.

My radio program does not only entertain my fellow Pi-noys, I also do marriage counseling. The multicultural radio program aims to ease the loneliness of Filipinos in South Korea and to improve their quality of life.

The radio program also provides information for Filipinos


who want to come to Korea. It is also helpful to those who are working far away from the places where Filipinos would normally gather on a Sunday. In a way, I am instrumental in relieving them of their homesickness. Aside from speaking in Filipino, I also play Pinoy music and original compositions of OFWs or their cover of famous songs. They can send their song as an MP3 through our e-mail: [email protected].

In May 2013, my husband came back to Korea to ask for a divorce. Less than a month after the divorce papers came out, my ex-husband officially registered his new marriage with his new Filipina wife. After all the years of financially supporting my mother-in-law here in Korea, I was relieved to have a new status in life. I embraced it gladly without any animosity in my heart.

I had moved on even in the literal sense. Since May 2014, I now live separately from my in-law although my residence is quite near her house. I have not told my son that I am divorced from his dad. It is one of my burdens in life. I do not want my son to know about it, so he will not be stressed with his stud-ies or be bullied in school. I am considering going through a counseling session when I finally decide to tell the truth. My greatest dream is to be able to provide what my son desires. I believe that doing what is best for your child will always lead you to the right direction in life.

With my accomplishments in life I am confident that I have, at least, secured the future of my son. With regard to my personal happiness, I do regret the mistakes that I made; but, I do not want to dwell on how unlucky I am in love. I spend my time productively on many other things.

Gennie V. Kim 51

I am happy with my work now and have left a former job that pays

migrants' stories, migrants' voices volume 5

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