write a short essay about overseas filipino workers

The first batch of Filipino workers arrived in Hawaii on December 20, 1906 to work on sugarcane and pineapple plantations. More workers, mostly single men, followed; others left Hawaii to work in agriculture in California, Oregon, and Washington, or the salmon canneries of Alaska. On the mainland, low-wage service work in the cities provided income between agricultural seasons or when other jobs were not available. Some 4,000 Filipinos were employed in the merchant marine, but this employment possibility ceased with the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 requiring the crew of U.S. flag vessels to be at least 90 percent American citizens.

Box 1. Definitions

Overseas Filipinos is the term encompassing all Filipino migrants, whether permanent or temporary, legal or unauthorized.

Overseas Filipino Workers , or OFWs , represent a subset of Overseas Filipinos, and are temporary migrants. The OFW term is commonly used, a further sign of the pervasive role that labor migration occupies in Philippine society.

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas includes the following categories of migrants in its stock estimates:

• Permanent Migrants - Filipino immigrants and legal permanent residents abroad, Filipino spouses of foreign nationals, Filipinos naturalized in their host country, Filipino dual citizens, and their descendants.
• Temporary Migrants – Filipinos whose stay overseas, while regular and properly documented, is temporary, owing to the employment-related nature of their status in their host country. Include land-based and sea-based Filipino workers, intracompany transferees, students, trainees, entrepreneurs, businessmen, traders, and others whose stay abroad is six month or more, and their accompanying dependents.
• Irregular Migrants - Filipinos who are not properly documented or without valid residence or work permits, or who may be overstaying their visa.

Estimates place the number of Filipino workers coming to the United States, chiefly to Hawaii, between 1906 and 1934 at 120,000 to 150,000. A small number of scholars, known as pensionados , also migrated to the United States before the 1920s. They were typically either sponsored by the U.S. government or by missionary-related programs. Some returned and assumed important positions in Filipino society, while others remained in the United States.

Because the Philippines was a U.S. colony, the movement of Filipinos to the United States was considered internal migration. As U.S. nationals, Filipinos could enter and leave the country freely, but could not access citizenship. It was not until the passage of the 1934 Tydings-McDuffie Law, which provided for the granting of Philippine independence within ten years, that the Philippines became subject to immigration quotas, and Filipinos in the United States became aliens. The law limited the Philippines to 50 visas per year, and migration dropped off dramatically. But even so, there was an exception clause: In case of a labor shortage, the governor of Hawaii was authorized to hire Filipino workers. World War II intervened and further migration to the United States stalled, until the Philippines became independent in July 1946.

Following passage of the 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act, which struck down nationality-based restrictions, Filipino immigration grew and diversified. Other countries of settlement also dismantled their pro-European immigration policies in the 1970s, paving the way for Filipinos to enter Canada, Australia, and New Zealand under family- or skills-based provisions. The Philippines eventually became one of the top ten origin countries in these traditional immigration destinations.

This permanent migration, however, was overshadowed by the larger and thornier temporary labor migration that started in the 1970s. Although the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) estimates the stock of permanent migrants (which includes Filipinos born overseas; see Box 1) is larger than that of temporary migrants, the country’s migration policies have focused on the significant annual outflows of temporary workers, their distribution throughout the world, and the myriad related issues.

Becoming a Source Country of Workers

A number of factors led to the ascent of the Philippines as a major labor exporter in Asia and worldwide. When large-scale labor emigration began in the 1970s, the push factors—already quite strong—were worsened by the 1973 oil crisis. Economic gains could not keep pace with population growth, and the country was hard pressed to provide jobs and decent wages while grappling with severe balance of payment problems.

At the same time, the GCC countries needed workers to realize their ambitious infrastructure projects. With supply and demand converging, the Philippines was ripe for large-scale labor migration, an opportunity the government of Ferdinand Marcos recognized. In 1974, the Labor Code of the Philippines established the framework for what became the government's overseas employment program.

The Philippines' foray into organized international labor migration was supposed to be temporary, lasting only until the country recovered from its economic problems. However, the ongoing demand for workers in the GCC countries and the opening of new labor markets in other regions, especially in East and Southeast Asia, fueled further migration. On the supply side, the push factors did not abate. Lack of sustained economic development, political instability, unabated population growth, persistent unemployment, and low wages continued to compel people to head abroad.

The flow of OFWs, numbering a few thousand per year in the early 1970s, surged past 1 million beginning in 2006 (see Figure 1). In 2015 alone, more than 1,844,000 Filipinos worked abroad. The data on deployed workers include seafarers, who account for 20 to22 percent of all OFWs every year. Filipinos dominate the global seafaring industry, accounting for 25 to 30 percent of the world's seafarers.

Figure 1. Annual Deployment of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), 1975-2015

Source : Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), “Compendium of OFW Statistics,” accessed July 6, 2017, available online .

As of December 2013, the stock of overseas Filipinos totaled slightly more than 10 million, including some 4.9 million permanent settlers (64 percent of whom are in the United States), about 4.2 million temporary migrants (mostly labor migrants, or OFWs, with Saudi Arabia hosting close to 1 million), and an estimated 1.2 million unauthorized migrants worldwide (primarily in Malaysia and the United States).

Filipinos are present in the far reaches of the globe, mostly because of work. Although the destinations of OFWs have diversified, to this day, the Middle East still receives the largest share, with 64 percent heading to the region in 2015, followed by Asia with 28 percent (see Figure 2). In 2015, six of the top ten destinations for both new hires and rehires were in the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain), and the remainder were in Asia (Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Malaysia).

Figure 2. Deployment of Land-Based OFWs by Region, 2015

Source : POEA, “Compendium of OFW Statistics.”

Filipino women are very visible in international migration. They not only compose the majority of permanent settlers, i.e., as part of family migration, but are as prominent as men in labor migration. In fact, since 1992, females have generally outnumbered men among the newly hired land-based workers legally deployed every year. In 2015, domestic work was the top occupation for new hires, at 38 percent.

While the demand for domestic workers has long been the main driver of female migration from the Philippines and Asia in general, until 2005, the demand for entertainers, mostly in Japan, also fueled this migration. With work in the domestic and entertainment sectors unprotected and prone to abuse, the safety and well-being of women migrants became a significant concern. Entertainer migration was particularly controversial and stigmatized because of perceptions that women ended up in the sex industry. From a deployment to Japan of tens of thousands of Filipino entertainers annually, the numbers dropped sharply in 2005 following Japan’s decision to adopt more stringent requirements for foreign entertainers. Likewise, the significance of domestic worker migration was a major push for the Philippines to ratify the 2011 Convention on Domestic Workers, which recognizes domestic work as labor that must be protected.

Beyond Labor Migration

The growing volume of labor migration from the Philippines has increased the incidence of problems and challenges faced by migrants and their families. The participation of private recruitment agencies in matching workers with employers abroad has contributed to the challenges. The problems that emerged in the 1970s remain the same today: illegal recruitment, contract substitution, illegal placement fees, long working hours, and no days off (in the case of domestic workers), among others.  

Over the years, institutional and policy development in the Philippines was geared toward worker protection. The 1995 Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act, a landmark law, aimed to provide protection to OFWs from predeparture through arrival and return. The focus on protection shifted during the presidency of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2001-10), when the government for the only time to date set a target for the deployment of workers. The Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan 2004-2010 set a goal of sending 1 million workers overseas every year.

This thrust was reversed by the subsequent administration of Benigno Aquino III (2010-16). His social contract with the Filipino people included the goal of moving “from a government that treats its people as an export commodity and as a means to foreign exchange, disregarding the social cost to Filipino families, to a government that creates jobs at home, so that working abroad will be a choice rather than a necessity; and when its citizens do choose to become OFWs, their welfare and protection will still be the government’s priority.”

This stated desire to a return to welfare and protection was accompanied by legislative and executive actions to further regulate labor migration and expand services for OFWs. Soon after Aquino took office, he signed Republic Act (RA) 10022 into law, aiming to further strengthen measures to protect migrant workers, their families, and other overseas Filipinos in distress. Among the law’s key provisions is the restriction of deployment only to countries that have been certified as safe and offering protection. Implementation-wise, certifying a country as safe or unsafe can be politically and diplomatically sensitive, and deployment bans (even for good reasons) have not proven effective in stopping migration. The law also mandates recruitment agencies or employers to provide OFWs with compulsory insurance to cover accidental death or disability, among other protections.

The Philippines Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) also amended recruitment industry regulations, resulting in the 2016 Revised POEA Rules and Regulations Governing the Recruitment and Employment of Seafarers, and a separate set of rules and regulations applying to land-based workers. These measures were aimed at curbing the illegal practices of recruitment agencies, such as exorbitant placement fees and contract substitution, which negatively impact migrants.

The welfare and protection of OFWs received another boost in 2016 with RA 10801, which launched a new charter bolstering the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). This agency’s mandate is to provide programs and services for the welfare of OFWs and their families, and to manage the funds from member contributions and interest from investments. The contributions come from the OWWA membership fee of US $25 per contract (which employers or recruitment agencies are supposed to cover but instead pass on to OFWs).  A number of nongovernmental organizations had criticized the government for not financially contributing to OWWA operations. The 2016 OWWA charter changed this, stating that the national government would allocate a regular budget for the operations and personnel expenses of the agency, which would free up more funds for programs and services. The law also identified the reintegration program as a core function for OWWA, shifting responsibility from the Department of Labor and Employment.

The government’s antitrafficking measures also strengthen the protection environment (although trafficking can also occur internally). The Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012 (RA 10364) amended the 2003 Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act to enhance concerted efforts to combat trafficking and increase penalties for violators. Those who are identified as victims of trafficking can access support and assistance.

Growing marriage migration also has caused anxieties about the welfare of women who marry foreign nationals. A new law (RA 10906) strengthening the Anti-Mail Order Bride Act of 1990 was enacted in 2016. Unlike the earlier law, the amended version applies to Filipino men as well as women (though marriage migrants are overwhelmingly female), and takes into account trafficking and new developments, such as online transactions. The law mainly prohibits commercial or for-profit matching or offering of Filipinos to foreign nationals through the mail, in person, or over the Internet, for the purpose of marriage or common law partnership.

Linking Migration and Development

Beyond the now-traditional facilitate-and-protect policy framework, migration governance in recent years has also started to make inroads on migration and development. The global discussion on the migration and development nexus may have influenced reflections in the Philippine context. A 2007 conference and a 2010 comprehensive study on migration and development in the Philippines brought to the fore five key observations:

• Migration policies in the Philippines were primarily focused on temporary labor migration.
• The development impact of migration was mostly discussed in terms of economic benefits, particularly remittances.
• The social costs of migration to families were often mentioned.
• National, regional, and local development plans did not take international migration into consideration.
• At the regional and local levels, there were few migration institutions.

In other words, the migration and development nexus was more of a disconnect: Except in the case of remittances, policies in these areas were not linked, and the national framework was out of sync with local frameworks. The Central Bank of the Philippines had taken the lead on improving the remittance environment, likely driven in part by the enormous importance of these money transfers as well as the relative ease of monitoring formal remittances, compared to other impacts such as social costs. However, other migration and development initiatives were not as persistently pursued, implemented, or monitored.

Despite this implementation gap at home, the Philippines has become a global leader in discussions on migration and development. It has actively participated in the Global Forum on Migration and Development, and hosted the second such forum in 2008.

These development-related discussions have also expanded the domestic migration conversation to encompass the broader population of overseas Filipinos, not just OFWs. At the start of the Aquino administration in 2010, the CFO, created in 1980 to look after the concerns of permanent migrants and nurture their links to the Philippines, embraced the task of “Responding to the Challenges of Migration and Development.” The commission began more actively reaching out to the Filipino diaspora through global and regional summits and developed a one-stop online portal for diaspora engagement, BaLinkBayan.

CFO also lobbied and cooperated with the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), the key government agency responsible for development planning and policy, to integrate international migration issues into the Philippine Development Plan 2011-16 . Sixty provisions on migration and development appeared in seven out of nine chapters of the plan. Further, in 2014, NEDA created an interagency structure to promote attention to migration and development and improve coordination among migration-related agencies and other government agencies.

There has also been movement toward involving local governments in developing institutions, policies, and programs on migration and development, including under Phase II of the Joint Migration and Development Initiative (JMDI). In the past, local officials tended to think of overseas employment as a national government concern and responsibility. While few local governments have established migration centers, the POEA and OWWA have forged partnerships with local governments to enhance the reach of their programs and services.

Migration Governance under Duterte: Is Change Coming?

After campaigning on the promise of “change is coming,” Rodrigo Duterte became the 16th president of the Philippines on June 30, 2016, succeeding Aquino. Like Filipinos at home, those overseas largely voted for Duterte.

A year into the Duterte presidency, his administration has sent mixed signals on how it will handle international migration. In his first State of the Nation Address in July 2016, Duterte rattled off a list of migration-related goals, namely to combat human trafficking and illegal recruiting, provide mandatory financial education to migrants, and consolidate offices and agencies dealing with overseas Filipinos to more efficiently respond to their concerns.

The first—waging “war against traffickers and illegal recruiters”—basically continues predecessors’ protection thrust. Similarly, the nod to financial education for migrants and their communities was part of the package of migration and development initiatives in the 2000s.

In its first 100 days, the Duterte administration introduced some immediate moves to hasten government processes affecting OFWs, including setting up one-stop shop service centers at the POEA. These centers gather in one location the government agencies where applicants or overseas workers secure documents needed to process their papers. Other changes, such as dropping the requirement for vacationing OFWs to secure an overseas employment certificate and the introduction of an online seafarer registry, were hailed by OFWs. Discussions are underway to cut through more red tape, such as extending the validity of Philippine passports from five years to ten years.

However, Duterte’s proposal to create a single department to effectively address various OFW concerns would be a departure from the multiagency approach that the Philippines has fashioned over the years.

To Consolidate, or Not To Consolidate?

Duterte’s allies in Congress lost no time in proposing versions of the bill to create a single migration department. Proponents argue that the proposal is intended to fulfill Duterte’s campaign promise to better serve OFWs, suggesting a single department would be more efficient. Civil-society organizations are divided on this proposal. Opponents argue that the various agencies that cater to different types of overseas Filipinos and/or have different mandates have already developed competencies to perform their functions. Rather than create another bureaucracy whose components will be carved out from existing departments or divisions, opponents argue it would be more constructive to improve coordination among agencies.

Interestingly, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III has a different idea. He sees a department devoted to OFWs as further institutionalizing overseas employment, which he claims is the very opposite of what this administration wants. He said, "Our final goal is to bring them back to the country and we can only do that if we give them decent jobs, decent pay." However, while the goal of bringing OFWs home one day has been expressed by all presidents, it has largely been unrealistic.

Duterte Finds Approval Among OFWs

The response of OFWs to President Duterte is one of overwhelming support . In his first year as president, he made 21 overseas trips, visiting 18 countries and touching base with Filipinos abroad, who greeted him enthusiastically.

In his visit to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar in April 2017, Duterte stated he was ready to kneel before OFWs to show his appreciation for their sacrifices in sending remittances home. Appearing before Filipino communities in these GCC countries, he repeated his promise to deliver better services through the proposed Department of Overseas Filipino Workers.

When he met with Filipinos in Japan, the crowd applauded his promise to end the Filipinos’ search for opportunities outside the country: “I work hard that we will earn more so that by the time, this is my promise to you and God and to those working abroad, this will be the last. The next generation of Filipinos will work in the Philippines. So we will do away with so many things. Corruption, then drugs.”

Indeed, in his visits abroad, Duterte never fails to discuss the central program of his administration: the war on drugs. His overseas audience sees his hardline stance, which has received international condemnation, as decisive and the war on drugs as necessary to rid the country of drug addicts. Since he took office, more than 7,000 alleged drug users and dealers have died in extrajudicial killings carried out by police or vigilantes, according to Human Rights Watch. The reactions of Filipinos abroad to the killings, mostly of poor Filipinos, as well as the disregard for human rights and the culture of violence that the war on drugs has bred have been muted.

Long-Term Development

Offering another glimpse into how the new administration will address migration, in February 2017 it approved the Philippine Development Plan 2012-22. The new PDP builds on the previous development plan, but also situates the development agenda within the longer-term AmBisyon Natin 2040 (Our Vision 2040; literally, ambition), which reflects the aspirations of Filipinos for themselves and their country.

This long-term view in the new PDP is novel, as development plans are typically anchored on the six-year cycle of each administration. The new PDP explains, “As one of Asia’s better-performing economies today, the Philippines is in a more favorable position than it has ever been in the last four decades. No longer weighed down by an unmanageable fiscal deficit and more secure in its political legitimacy, the government can now afford to think about national goals based on a longer time horizon.” The Duterte administration’s target is to achieve annual GDP growth of 7-8 percent in the medium term, and the PDP aims to cut the poverty rate from 21.6 percent to 14 percent overall, and from 30 percent to 20 percent in rural areas. It also seeks to reduce the unemployment rate of 5.5 percent by 3-5 percentage points by 2022.

The new PDP gives special attention to overseas Filipinos by incorporating international migration issues, often referencing migrants directly, throughout. It gives attention to the special circumstances of migrants and their families, and aims to protect their rights and improve their well-being, strengthen their engagement in governance, facilitate their participation in the country’s development, and ensure their smooth reintegration upon return.

In its chapter on human-capital development, the PDP acknowledges the push factor in labor migration, noting that “Limited employment opportunities force Filipinos to migrate by necessity and not by choice.” It points to regional integration initiatives such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and efforts to strengthen ties with China and Russia as opportunities to diversify destinations. ASEAN Member States, notably Singapore and Malaysia, have long been OFW destinations. In the case of China and Russia, Duterte overtures to these two countries may have played a hand in identifying them as potential future destinations. For now, these two receive a small number of Filipino workers, although reports indicate some 200,000 unauthorized Filipino domestic workers live in China, where they earn a higher income than in Hong Kong.

Limited employment opportunities also affect higher skilled Filipinos. A study assessing the country’s innovation found that the supply of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) workers outpaces local demand, which leads to emigration and underemployment of skilled scientists and engineers. And their emigration results in brain drain, which deprives the country of human capital important for development. The PDP calls for strengthening the long-running Balik Scientist (Return Scientist) Program and similar schemes, and is open to the idea of tapping foreign experts, including overseas Filipinos, for institutional capacity building and development expertise.

Since 2016, the National Reintegration Center for OFWs has been conducting consultations with stakeholders nationwide in preparation for the reintegration summit that will be held in August 2017. The summit aims to produce thoughtful reflections and action plans that will respond to the opportunities and challenges that return migrants carry with them.

Looking Ahead

In the past decade, migration governance in the Philippines has gone beyond labor migration policies and remittances, making strides toward linking migration policies to broader development goals. The last two Philippine Development Plans have integrated migration into national development planning; the government’s key planning agency, NEDA, has come to appreciate the importance of migration; and a mechanism, the Subcommittee on Migration and Development, has been established within NEDA to improve coordination among government agencies and devote more attention to migration and development.

These are important milestones that need to be fleshed out and sustained over time. At the local level, mainstreaming and upscaling projects for local institution capacity building, the setting up of Migration Resource Centers and similar structures in local government units and integrating migration in local development plans, among others, have been implemented in selected regional and local governments. In other words, the groundwork for the expansion of migration policies in the Philippines has been started; the next task is to keep up the momentum to maximize the development potentials of migration, while continuing to look out for the well-being of migrants.

ABS-CBN News. 2017. Creating OFW Department 'Goes Against' Duterte Admin Goals, Bello Says. ABS-CBN News, April 14, 2017. Available online .

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Asis, Maruja M. B. and Golda Myra Roma. 2010. Eyes on the Prize: Towards a Migration and Development Agenda in the Philippines. In Brick by Brick: Building Cooperation between the Philippines and Migrants’ Associations in Italy and Spain , ed. Fabio Baggio. Manila: Scalabrini Migration Center.

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Yan, Alice. 2016. Is It Time for China to Open Its Doors to Filipino Domestic Helpers? South China Morning Post, October 19, 2016. Available online .

What is an OFW – Overseas Filipino Worker?

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are basically foreign workers who work outside the Philippines and live in a foreign country for an indefinite or limited period of time. Overseas Filipino workers hold Philippine citizenship and choose to migrate abroad for temporary assignments to support themselves and their families back home, while they provide the same crucial service to other countries.

OFW’s often find work as domestic helpers, construction workers, nurses, caregivers, seamen/women, working professionals, and many other professions, depending on demand from overseas employers. The POLO-OWWA offices abroad are the ones that cater to the welfare and labor issues of Filipinos based overseas.

The Philippines currently has around 10 million Overseas Filipinos worldwide with approximately 2.6 Million working in Saudi Arabia alone. The majority of Overseas Filipino Workers are Overseas contract workers, holding employment contracts with their overseas employers, which can range between one month to several years. These types of foreign employees are also known as time-based migrant workers.

What is the meaning of OFW?

OFW stands for Overseas Filipino Workers. These are people from all walks of life – from mothers to construction workers, teachers to professional doctors. They travel to different parts of the world where they take on different jobs that vary depending on their profession.

Why do many Filipinos want to work abroad?

Many Overseas Filipinos want to work abroad because they can earn more money there than at home and send it home to their families. Here are the list of reasons why Filipinos work abroad and become OFWs:

• To provide income stability for their family.
• Better career opportunities.
• To be able to provide for their children’s education.
• Overseas Filipino Workers can maximize their skill-sets in order to gain better employment through skills training and higher learning.
• They feel like they have more freedom than working in the country because of all the reasons listed above.
• They take jobs that they believe will lead to better opportunities for themselves and their families.

What types of jobs do Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) do?

The jobs OFWs do range from caregivers, construction workers, factory labor, to professional work such as nurses, engineers, IT, etc. Overseas Filipino Workers are all over the world including the Middle East, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, and other countries in Europe.

Depending on the level of education that they have attained in the Philippines, they can get a variety of jobs including :

• Overseas Filipino Workers who work as Overseas Manpower (caregivers, domestic helpers such as nannies and maids)
• Overseas Filipino Workers who work in the construction industry (construction workers or carpenters)
• Overseas Filipino Workers who work in manufacturing (factory workers)
• Overseas Filipino Workers who work in other fields like engineering and medicine (engineers and doctors)
• Overseas Filipino Workers who work in the field of Information Technology (IT)
• Overseas Filipino Workers who work in the field of Customer Service
• Overseas Filipino Workers who work in the field of Nursing

How to Become an OFW?

Overseas Filipino Workers can get a job working by applying for a POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Agency)-accredited agency. This type of agency will generally look for employment opportunities and place Overseas Filipino Workers overseas.

WARNING: If you plan to become an OFW, make sure you apply to accredited POEA-agencies. These accredited job agencies screen applicants based on qualifications and background before hiring them to make sure they are qualified for the job they are applying for. Other job agencies don’t screen Overseas Filipino Workers, which is one of the reasons why some OFWs in these agencies become victims of human trafficking crimes in other countries. If you want a list of accredited POEA-agencies, click here .

Why do Overseas Filipinos send remittances?

Every month Overseas Filipinos around the world send money to their loved ones as a remittance by transferring money from one bank account to another electronically using websites. The monthly remittance to their families is used for their daily needs and to pay for bills. Overseas Filipino Workers send remittances every month because their family depends on them.

How do Overseas Filipino Workers contribute to the economy of the Philippines?

Overseas Filipinos contribute greatly to the Philippine Economy. Every Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) sends around an average $400 in remittance every month which contributes to the Philippine Economy. Overseas Filipinos also spend money when they visit friends or family or during holidays like Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Birthdays, etc.

How do Overseas Filipinos send money?

There are many ways Overseas Filipino Workers make sure they get their remittance from one country to another, some examples are listed below:

• Bank Wire Transfer – It is a safe way to transfer money from one bank account to another electronically. The fee is usually around $25 for Overseas Filipino Workers to send money overseas.
• Western Union – Overseas Filipino Workers can pay a fee of around $15 to $25 per transaction when they send money overseas using Western Union.
• MoneyGram – Overseas Filipino Workers is almost the same as Western Union, although this one charges Overseas Filipino Workers less than Western Union when they transfer money from one country to another.

What is the role of Overseas Filipino Workers in the economy of the Philippines?

According to the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), Overseas Filipino Workers should be considered temporary workers for the purpose of labor export policy formulation and program implementation.

Overseas Filipinos play an important role in sending remittances to their country. OFWs typically send money back home to support their families by paying for rent or mortgage, utilities, food, and clothing bills, education, etc. The Philippines has been benefitting from money sent home by OFWs as one of its sources of income as it contributes to the Philippine GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Remittances received in the Philippines accounted for 9.7 percent of the country’s total GDP in 2020.

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) work full-time overseas as a job with a fixed income during a certain part of the year and return home to spend time with family for a few months back home in the Philippines every year or so. Overseas Filipinos play an important role in sending remittances to their country. OFWs typically send money back home to support their families by paying for rent or mortgage, utilities, food, and clothing bills, education, etc.

The Philippines has been benefitting from money sent home by Overseas Filipino Workers as one of its sources of income as it contributes to the Philippine GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Remittances received in the Philippines accounted for 9.7% of the country’s total

We hope you have found this guide helpful in understanding better what the role of OFWs is to the Philippines and have a better idea of what an OFW is.

My mother's journey as an overseas Filipino worker

With millions of Filipinos working abroad, one woman reflects on overcoming the distance that grew between her and her mother.

Angeli Gabriel and her mother, Marlyn Henning, take pictures after the family moves to Tennessee in 1999. Mother and daughter share similar haircuts and floral prints.

“You had pigtails and didn’t speak any English at all,” my mother says, telling me the story of our move to the United States. It was probably the thousandth time I’d heard this story, but I didn’t mind. My mother, like many Filipinos, is an excellent storyteller—very expressive. She’d emphatically move her hands, shimmy her shoulders, and even do impersonations.

But I couldn’t see any of that this time because we were talking on the phone. My only visual of her was the word “Mom” glowing in white text on my phone’s black screen. I could still imagine every motion she was making and every glint in her eye, as I heard her smiling through the phone.

These calls, where I’d envision my mother’s mannerisms from memory, are how many of our interactions go these days. Years ago, I moved to Washington D.C. for graduate school and work, hundreds of miles from my parents’ house in Tennessee. Trips home became more difficult and less frequent.

Marlyn Henning, several months pregnant with daughter Angeli Gabriel, stands on the steps of her work dormitory in 1986. While pregnant, she still worked as a nurse at Abdulla Fouad Hospital in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

Grandmother Rosevida Pasana holds Angeli Gabriel and cousin Jeffrey Pasana at her home in Manaoag, Philippines. Unlike other Filipino grandchildren, they called their grandmother “Nanay”, which actually means “mom” in Tagalog.

For my mother and me, distance has always been a constant. But as the decades went by, the veneer of normalcy began to fade as the sacrifices of my mother and our family in the Philippines came to the fore. ( Why 10 million Filipinos work overseas. )

It is quite common in Filipino families for parents and children to live apart. Many parents travel abroad to places like Japan, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, the United States—anywhere they can go to make a living—even by taking care of other people’s children. Today, an estimated 10 million Filipinos are working overseas. They send home an estimated $27 billion a year in remittances.

Of the many Filipino professionals that travel overseas to work, some of the most well-known are nurses. My mother is one of those nurses.

Our story began in 1955, when my mother was born in the rural town of San Jacinto, Philippines. Her father, a bus driver, was the sole earner in their household, struggling to make his earnings stretch and support his wife and six children.

The stories my mom tells about this time in her life take on a somber tone as she talks about family meals that only included rice, water, and salt. Her father would try to persuade his children to eat, constantly promising meat in their next meal, knowing that it was a promise that he could rarely keep.

Marlyn Henning (far left) in 1977 during her senior year of nursing school. The class was Public Health Nursing and involved going to rural areas to provide treatment.

But by the time my mother, the youngest daughter, was a teenager, my grandparents had saved enough money to invest in something that would change their future: sending my mom to nursing school.

Nursing was not my mother’s dream career at the time. As a teenager, she loved to draw and sew, and she even dreamt of a career in fashion and design. But my grandparents asked my mom to consider nursing. My grandparents had seen for other families that nursing helped provide the financial stability their family desperately needed.

They enrolled my mother in Lyceum-Northwestern University. My mom graduated as a registered nurse in 1978.

Then in 1983, after years of gaining hands-on medical experience, my mother joined the ranks of many Filipino nurses who came before her. She accepted an offer to work abroad, at Abdulla Fouad Hospital in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

She recalls the day she left for the job. At the airport in Manila, Philippines, she prepared to hop on a plane for the first time. Her father was sad to see her leave, and my grandmother cried incessantly. It would be a long time before they’d see their daughter again. ( See millions of Filipino workers return home for the holidays. )

As part of my mother’s work contract, she could only return to the Philippines once a year. Each stint home lasted for about 45 days, enough to catch up on what had happened with family in the past year, before having to reset the clock and return overseas to work.

Angeli Gabriel, is being held by grandmother, Rosevida Pasana. Here, she and grandfather Amado Pasana (seated) are having dinner with several family members at their house in Manaoag, Philippines.

Like many other Filipinos working overseas, my mother sent the majority of her pay back to her family. Her parents needed her support as they grew older and as my grandfather became unable to work as much. Some of her siblings fell into financial hard times. While working abroad separated my mom from her family for years, it allowed them to leave a life of poverty and gain a better, more stable life.

Growing up, I remember seeing photos of my mom in Saudi Arabia. She would be posing with friends and co-workers, and she’d often wear either pressed, white nursing outfits or casual 80s wear that showed off her petite figure. But a few other photos had her posing in a large, flowing mumu—showing off a baby bump.

In 1986, she returned home to give birth this baby: me. I was her first child and the start of her own little family. But about four weeks after giving birth, per her work contract, she had to return to Saudi Arabia. ( Follow Filipino workers as they figure out life in the gulf countries. )

I was left in the care of my mom’s parents and one of her brothers. They raised me as if I were their own, until they were granted an opportunity they couldn’t pass up: moving to the United States.

They then left me in the care of one of my mom’s sisters and her husband. I would grow so close to them that I’d call them “Mommy” and “Daddy”, rather than the usual Tita meaning aunt or Tito meaning uncle. I’d see their children, who were technically my cousins, as my brother and sister.

My aunt would send my mother cassette recordings of me talking or singing as a toddler. My mom said she’d cry every time she listened to them. And when she would take her yearly trip back home to see me, she was met with a baby that cried because she didn’t recognize her.

Soon after Marlyn Henning and Angeli Gabriel arrived in the United States, they went to Universal Studios in Los Angeles, California. They took a photo with Fievel, a cartoon character from the immigrant story “An American Tail”.

My mom knew that her hands were tied. She felt that she couldn’t leave her job because so many family members back home were depending on her. That was the responsibility she bore, even if it meant only being able to see her own daughter once a year.

This part of our story is one my mom doesn’t tell that often. But when she does, her usually animated demeanor fades. I hear a tightness in her throat as she tries to speak. When she talks about this in-person, the only thing I can really do is give her a hug, because this period in our lives was just one of several times to come when she and I were separated.

After a few years, when our family was in a better place financially, she decided to move back home. She knew she wasn’t going to find a nursing job that paid as well as the one she had in Saudi Arabia, but she was willing to make the sacrifice so that she and I could be a family.

But rather than staying in the Philippines, she decided to set her sights on America. Her goal soon came to fruition when she was given an offer to work at Physician and Surgeon Hospital in Midland, Texas.

It was like a dream come true: she would be sponsored to immigrate to America and have guaranteed employment. The catch: she’d have to work a certain number of hours and pass an exam in order to stay employed and in the United States; if she failed, not only would she be sent back to the Philippines, but she’d have to pay back every cent invested into her travels.

When Gabriel was ten years old, she became a Raiders cheerleader for Fairview’s local peewee cheerleading squad. She would later cheer during middle school and high school, become captain of those squads. She later was offered a chance to cheer for college.

My mom decided to take that gamble and up the stakes. She only agreed to go if she could take her daughter with her. Her terms were accepted.

So there we were, on a plane to America. My mom was ready to start a new life with her daughter, dressed in pigtails.

But soon after we arrived to this new country, we were split apart yet again.

My mother needed to focus on her job. Our future and ability to stay in the U.S. depended on it. So, she sent me to live with family in Long Beach, California, where I was reunited with two familiar faces: my grandparents.

My grandfather was working as a janitor, and my grandmother stayed home to care for me. We went to church every Sunday, joining a Catholic congregation made up mostly of Filipinos. We also visited their senior citizen community center and catch up with other Filipino elders. I have fond memories of my grandparents on the dance floor, holding each other close, as they’d done for decades in the Philippines and now, in America.

In 2002, Nanay and Tatay went to live with their daughter and granddaughter in Fairview, Tennessee. They would often attend “The Music” on Friday nights, where they would dance to live country and bluegrass music.

Although life in the U.S. was not as easy as they’d hoped, they recognized how many opportunities it could still hold for me – even if it came at a cultural cost.

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This was most evident in their determination to have me learn and speak English. They, along with my mother, believed that the best way to ensure this was to stop speaking to me in our native Tagalog and our dialect Pangasinan and to only speak to me in English.

At one point, I not only learned how to speak English, but I also learned how to pick up the phone and call my mom. I’d ask her, “Ma, why am I the only one here who doesn’t have a mom?”. According to my grandmother, I was frustrated by how my mom could never visit. I’d point at a U.S. map during a call with her and say, “Texas is there, California is here. See? It’s not that far.”

Years later, on Mother’s Day 1993, my grandparents and I parted ways, and my mother and I reunited. She had passed the requirements for us to remain in the U.S., and we were able to become a family once again.

I was sad to leave my grandparents, but this reunion did grow our family by one. While in Texas, my mom met and fell in love with a fellow nurse at the hospital, and she brought him to meet me.

When Gabriel was about eight years old, she and her parents Dan and Marlyn Henning (far right) took a road trip from Nashville, Tennessee to Long Beach, California to visit family.

Originally hailing from Oklahoma, my stepdad introduced me to another side of American culture. I have fond memories as a child, waking up to songs by the Beach Boys or George Strait playing from the kitchen. I’d find my dad, a burly, 6-foot-tall white guy, tending to homemade sausage gravy simmering on the stovetop. When he’d see me, he’d start doing silly, dad-joke-level dance moves—anything to make me laugh.

His lightheartedness was accompanied by a deep respect for my family’s struggles. He recognized the pain of my mother’s and my near-constant separation, and he did what he could to reacquaint us after years of being apart.

Change was afoot once again, but this time, we experienced it together.

We moved to Tennessee for my father’s job, and we ended up establishing roots in a small town called Fairview. Unlike Long Beach, which was a bustling town of grey, city blocks, Fairview was calm, quiet, and lush with green. Our first home there was nestled in the woods.

To acquaint themselves with this new town, my parents decided to partake in one of Fairview’s popular activities: attending the high school’s football games. But on their first visit, my mother recalls looking around the bleachers and noticing another difference from Long Beach—everyone at the game was white. Knowing that I would stand out in this community with my black hair and brown skin, she couldn’t help but wonder how I would fit in.

Gabriel poses with childhood friends during her birthday party at a roller skating rink. Her parents gave her her first tennis racket that day and set Gabriel on a path that eventually led her to play for the high school tennis team.

Turns out that my mother had nothing to worry about. Classmates took an interest in my background and life in the Philippines, and they and their families treated me and my parents with respect and kindness. I grew up virtually clueless that I was any different from my blonde, blue-eyed, and freckled friends. I even picked up a little Southern lilt.

While my mother and I were finally together again, establishing roots in this new hometown, we began to drift once again. The distance we’d encountered time and again in a geographical sense began to manifest itself culturally.

My mother developed expectations of me that were rooted in traditional Filipino values, whereas I had expectations of myself that were rooted in American values. For example, what she perceived as disrespectful behavior, I perceived as standing up for what I believed in.

Despite our cultural disagreements, while I was in high school, my mother decided to bring us further into the American fold by having us become citizens. When I ask her about this decision, she brings it back to opportunity. “At the time, you had to be a citizen to apply for scholarships,” she said. “I wanted you to have all the education opportunities.”

Gabriel and her mom visit the Grand Canyon for the first time. The family took a three-day road trip from Nashville, Tennessee to Los Angeles, California, and stopped to see some of the country’s greatest sites.

I remember quizzing my mom about U.S. history to help prepare her for the citizenship test. We’d often sit on the front porch of our house to do this. It was usually dark, since we’d get together after she came home from work, and we’d flip through the list of questions by the warm yellow glow of the porch light.

Who was the first president of the United States? What do the stars and stripes on the American flag mean? My mother, educated in the Filipino school system, had to learn another country’s history from scratch.

Then, in 2002, she took and passed the text, and we became American citizens together.

In addition to learning about U.S. history, my mom and I learned about one crucial component of becoming Americans: You must have the ability to handle the distance from your home country, from loved ones, and from yourself.

My mother took ten years to afford our first trip home, after that initial flight in 1991 took us further away from the Philippines in ways we never expected. She spent years apart from her parents, her siblings, and her own daughter, missing countless milestones in their lives.

Now in her sixties, my mother has scaled back the hours she works and spends her new free time with my dad and herself, having for the first time the space to reflect, appreciate, and heal from the many turns her journey took.

Although she and I are once again apart, with her in Tennessee and me in D.C., we do our best to maintain a closeness we’ve been deprived of for so long.

While it would be ideal to be by her side as she tells her many stories, watching her as she motions through the air and seeing the expressiveness of her eyes, something as simple as a phone call, where I could hear her smile resonating through the line, is still as priceless a connection.

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The Ultimate Guide to Becoming an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW): Step-by-Step Process

Table of Contents

Introduction.

The Philippines is known for its rich human resource, with millions of skilled and talented individuals seeking opportunities abroad to provide a better life for their families back home. The remittances sent by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) contribute significantly to the Philippine economy, making them an essential part of the country’s growth and development.

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is the government agency responsible for managing the overseas employment program of the Philippines. It is tasked with promoting and regulating the deployment of Filipino workers to foreign countries, ensuring their protection and welfare, and maintaining a comprehensive database of OFWs.

Becoming an OFW is a life-changing decision that requires thorough research, planning, and preparation. This comprehensive step-by-step guide will help you navigate the complex process of becoming an OFW, from researching and choosing your desired job to arriving in your host country and settling into your new life. By following this guide, you can confidently embark on a rewarding career overseas, contribute to the well-being of your family, and make a positive impact on the Philippine economy.

FREE! Download a copy of this checklist in Google Docs

Step 1: Research and Choose Your Desired Job

A. identify the type of job you want to apply for, considering your skills, qualifications, and interests.

• Assess your skills: Make a list of your skills, including technical, soft, and language skills. Reflect on your work experience and the expertise you have gained over the years.
• Determine your qualifications: Review your educational background and any additional certifications or licenses you have obtained.
• Consider your interests: Think about your passions and how they align with your skills and qualifications. This will help ensure job satisfaction and increase your chances of success abroad.

B. Research the demand for your chosen profession in various countries

• Explore labor market trends: Look for information on in-demand jobs and industries in your target countries. Websites of labor departments, embassies, or consulates of these countries are good starting points.
• Investigate salary and benefits: Research the average salary and benefits for your chosen profession in different countries. This will help you make informed decisions about where to apply and negotiate your contract.
• Learn about living conditions: Compare the cost of living, quality of life, and cultural aspects of your target countries to make sure you can adapt and thrive in your new environment.

C. Look for reputable recruitment agencies or job postings

• Visit the POEA website : The POEA is a reliable source for legitimate job postings and licensed recruitment agencies. Browse through their job postings and list of accredited agencies to find suitable opportunities.
• Use other job portals: In addition to the POEA website, explore other reputable job portals, such as JobStreet, WorkAbroad.ph, and Kalibrr. These platforms often provide extensive job listings and resources for aspiring OFWs.
• Network with OFWs: Reach out to friends, family, or acquaintances who are currently working abroad or have previous experience as OFWs. They can provide valuable insights and may even refer you to potential employers or job openings.
• Verify recruitment agencies: Before applying through a recruitment agency, verify its legitimacy by checking its license with the POEA. Be cautious of agencies that charge excessive fees or make unrealistic promises to secure a job.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents

A. obtain a valid philippine passport.

• Visit the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) website ( www.passport.gov.ph ) to schedule an appointment and download the passport application form.
• Prepare the necessary requirements, including your NSO/PSA-authenticated birth certificate, valid government-issued ID, and recent passport-sized photos.
• Attend your scheduled appointment at the DFA office and submit your application form along with the required documents.
• Pay the passport processing fee and wait for the release of your new passport.

B. Secure your NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) clearance

• Register online at the NBI Clearance website and schedule an appointment.
• Prepare the necessary requirements, such as your valid government-issued ID and a recent 2×2 photo with a white background.
• Go to your chosen NBI clearance center on your appointment date and submit your requirements.
• Pay the clearance processing fee, undergo fingerprint scanning, and wait for the release of your NBI clearance.

C. Obtain your academic records, such as diplomas and transcripts of records

• Contact your school or university’s registrar office and request copies of your diploma and transcript of records.
• If required, have your documents authenticated by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Education (DepEd), or Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), depending on your educational level.
• Secure a Certificate of Authentication and Verification (CAV) if necessary.

Read next: Top 10 Destinations for Remarkable & Inspiring Filipino OFWs

D. Prepare your professional documents, including your PRC (Professional Regulation Commission) license, if applicable

• Obtain a certified true copy of your PRC license from the PRC office or its regional branches.
• If required, have your professional documents authenticated by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) or the PRC.

E. Acquire employment certificates and other relevant documents

• Request employment certificates from your previous employers, which should indicate your job title, responsibilities, and duration of employment.
• Obtain additional documents that may be required by your potential employer, such as certificates of training, seminars, or workshops you have attended.
• Have your documents translated into the language of your target country if necessary, and obtain authentication or apostille from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

Step 3: Apply for a Job

A. submit your application to the chosen recruitment agency or directly to the employer.

• Prepare your application documents, including an updated resume, cover letter, and copies of relevant certifications, licenses, and other supporting documents.
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your skills, experiences, and qualifications that are most relevant to the job you are applying for.
• If applying through a recruitment agency, submit your application documents to the agency and follow their application process. Keep in mind that the POEA requires agencies to provide their services free of charge to applicants.
• If applying directly to the employer, follow their preferred application method, which may involve submitting your documents via email, online application forms, or job portals.

B. Attend interviews, exams, or other assessments required by the employer

• Prepare for interviews by researching the company and your target job, practicing common interview questions, and reviewing your experiences and qualifications.
• Dress professionally and arrive early for your interviews or assessments.
• If the interview is conducted online or over the phone, ensure you have a stable internet connection, a quiet environment, and a fully charged device.
• Be prepared for technical or practical exams, depending on the job you are applying for. This may include language tests, trade tests, or computer proficiency assessments.

C. Once you receive a job offer, carefully review the terms and conditions of the employment contract

• Read the contract thoroughly and ensure you understand all the provisions, including your job responsibilities, salary, working hours, benefits, leave entitlements, and termination clauses.
• Verify that the contract is compliant with the labor laws and regulations of the host country and the Philippines.
• If you have concerns or questions about the contract, consult with the recruitment agency, an attorney, or the POEA for guidance.
• If necessary, negotiate with the employer to reach a mutually agreeable contract that protects your rights and interests as an OFW.
• Once you are satisfied with the contract, sign and return it to the employer or recruitment agency, and keep a copy for your records.

Step 4: Undergo Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS)

A. Attend the mandatory PEOS online or in-person at designated POEA offices

• Online PEOS : Access the online PEOS modules by registering at the e-PEOS website. Complete the modules at your own pace and convenience.
• In-person PEOS: Visit the POEA website or contact your nearest POEA office to inquire about the schedule and venue for in-person PEOS. Secure a slot by registering and attending on the specified date.

B. Learn about your rights and responsibilities as an OFW, as well as the risks and rewards of overseas employment

• Rights and Responsibilities: The PEOS covers important topics such as labor laws and regulations in the Philippines and the host country, contract provisions, and the obligations of recruitment agencies, employers, and workers.
• Risks and Rewards: The seminar also discusses the potential challenges and benefits of working abroad, including homesickness, cultural differences, and financial management.
• Support Services: During the PEOS, you will learn about the services and assistance available to OFWs, including the roles of the POEA, OWWA, and Philippine embassies and consulates in the host country.

C. Obtain a PEOS certificate upon completion

• Online PEOS: After completing all the online modules, you will be prompted to take a short quiz. Upon passing the quiz, you can download and print your PEOS certificate.
• In-person PEOS: Upon completing the in-person seminar, you will receive your PEOS certificate from the POEA office or the accredited training provider conducting the seminar.

Step 5: Obtain an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC)

A. register with the poea through the bm (balik manggagawa) online processing system.

• Visit the BM Online Processing System website and create an account if you are a first-time user or log in if you have an existing account.
• Fill out the required information, including your personal details, job position, employer information, and overseas address.

B. Schedule an appointment with the POEA for processing your OEC

• Select your preferred POEA office or processing center and choose an available date and time for your appointment.
• Keep a record of your appointment schedule and reference number, as you will need to present this during your appointment.

C. Bring all necessary documents to your appointment, including your passport, employment contract, and PEOS certificate

• Prepare the original and photocopies of your valid passport, signed employment contract, PEOS certificate, and any other required documents specific to your job or host country.
• Organize your documents in a folder or envelope to ensure they are easily accessible during your appointment.

D. Pay the required fees for the OEC and other mandatory contributions (e.g., PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, and SSS)

• At the POEA office or processing center, pay the OEC processing fee (approximately PHP 100) and the fees for mandatory contributions to PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, and SSS.
• For first-time OFWs, the mandatory contributions include the following approximate fees: PHP 2,400 for a 12-month PhilHealth coverage, PHP 1,200 for a 12-month Pag-IBIG membership, and PHP 960 for a 3-month SSS contribution.
• Keep the receipts for your payments, as you may need them for future transactions or reimbursements.

Read next: 8 Most In Demand Jobs in the Philippines

E. Receive your OEC, which serves as proof of your legal status as an OFW and an exit clearance from the Philippines

• After paying the fees and presenting your documents, the POEA officer will process your OEC.
• Once your OEC is issued, review the details and ensure they are accurate. Keep the original copy in a safe place and make copies for your records.
• Present your OEC at the Philippine immigration counter at the airport before departure. The OEC serves as your exit clearance and proof that you are a documented OFW, exempting you from paying travel tax and terminal fees.

Step 6: Attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS)

A. register for the pdos, which is conducted by the overseas workers welfare administration (owwa) or accredited ngos.

• Visit the OWWA website ( https://owwa.gov.ph/ ) or contact your nearest OWWA office to inquire about the PDOS schedule and registration process.
• Alternatively, you may also check with accredited NGOs or training providers that offer PDOS in your area. A list of these organizations can be found on the POEA or OWWA websites.
• Register for the PDOS, providing your personal details, job position, and host country information. Keep a record of your PDOS schedule and registration number.

B. Attend the seminar to learn about the host country’s culture, laws, and regulations, as well as practical tips for adjusting to life abroad

• Culture and customs: The PDOS provides an overview of the culture, customs, and traditions of your host country, helping you understand and respect local practices and avoid potential misunderstandings.
• Laws and regulations: The seminar covers important information about the host country’s laws and regulations, including immigration, labor, and social laws. This knowledge is essential for ensuring your safety and legal compliance while working abroad.
• Practical tips: The PDOS also offers practical tips and advice on adjusting to life abroad, such as managing finances, maintaining good health, and dealing with homesickness. You’ll also learn about available resources and support services for OFWs in your host country.
• Rights and responsibilities: During the PDOS, you will be reminded of your rights and responsibilities as an OFW, including your entitlements under your employment contract, as well as your obligations to your employer and the Philippine government.
• Networking: The seminar provides an opportunity to meet and network with fellow OFWs who will be working in the same country or region. This can help you build a support network and share experiences and advice with your peers.

Step 7: Prepare for Departure

A. secure necessary visas, permits, or clearances required by the host country.

• Coordinate with your employer or recruitment agency to obtain the necessary visa or work permit for your host country. The requirements and processing times may vary depending on the country and your job position.
• Some countries may require additional clearances or permits, such as a medical examination, police clearance, or a certificate of good conduct. Ensure you complete these requirements before your departure.

B. Arrange for accommodation and transportation in the host country

• Inquire about your accommodation arrangements with your employer or recruitment agency. Some employers provide accommodation or housing allowances, while others may require you to find your own place to stay.
• Research the cost of living, local neighborhoods, and housing options in your host country to make informed decisions about your accommodation.
• Familiarize yourself with the public transportation system in your host country, including the routes, schedules, and fares. Download relevant apps or maps to help you navigate your new environment.

C. Inform your family and friends of your departure plans and contact details while abroad

• Share your flight details, overseas address, and contact information with your family and friends. This will help them stay connected and reach you in case of emergencies.
• Establish a communication plan with your loved ones, including the preferred methods of contact, such as phone calls, video calls, or messaging apps.
• Inform your family about the support services and resources available to them as relatives of OFWs, including OWWA programs and benefits.

D. Pack your belongings, taking note of baggage restrictions and prohibited items

• Check the baggage allowance and restrictions of your airline, including the weight, size, and number of allowed pieces. This will help you avoid excess baggage fees and ensure your belongings are packed safely.
• Review the customs regulations and prohibited items of your host country, as well as the Philippines, to avoid any issues during your departure and arrival.
• Pack essential items, such as clothing, toiletries, personal documents, and electronics, as well as any specific items required for your job, such as uniforms or work tools.
• Consider bringing some items that remind you of home or your culture, such as photographs, small souvenirs, or favorite snacks, to help you cope with homesickness.

Read next: Top 10 Call Centers in the Philippines

Step 8: Departure and Arrival in the Host Country

A. present your oec at the philippine immigration counter before departure.

• Upon arrival at the airport, proceed to the Philippine immigration counter and present your OEC, passport, and boarding pass to the immigration officer.
• The OEC serves as your exit clearance and proof that you are a documented OFW, exempting you from paying travel tax and terminal fees.

B. Arrive in the host country and report to your employer

• After arriving in the host country, go through immigration and customs procedures as required by the local authorities. Ensure you have your passport, visa or work permit, and employment contract readily available for inspection.
• Coordinate with your employer or recruitment agency to arrange for a pick-up or transportation from the airport to your accommodation or workplace.
• Report to your employer as soon as possible and follow their onboarding process, which may include orientation, training, or signing additional documents.

C. Familiarize yourself with the local customs, language, and community

• Invest time in learning the local language to improve your communication skills and enhance your interactions with the local community. Take language courses, use language learning apps, or practice with native speakers.
• Explore your new surroundings and visit local landmarks, markets, and community centers to gain a better understanding of the host country’s culture and customs.
• Make an effort to establish connections with both local residents and fellow OFWs, as building a support network can help you adapt to your new environment and provide emotional support during challenging times.

D. Register with the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate

• Locate the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate in your host country and register as an OFW. This will enable the embassy or consulate to provide assistance and support in case of emergencies or issues related to your employment.
• Keep a record of the embassy or consulate’s contact information, including their address, phone number, and email, and share it with your family and friends in the Philippines.
• Attend events or activities organized by the Philippine embassy or consulate, as these can provide valuable information on your rights and responsibilities as an OFW, as well as opportunities to network with other Filipino workers in the host country.

Becoming an OFW is a significant decision that requires careful planning and preparation. By following this comprehensive step-by-step guide, you can navigate the process smoothly and embark on a rewarding career overseas. Each step, from researching and choosing your desired job to arriving in your host country, is designed to equip you with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources to succeed as an OFW.

Working abroad presents opportunities for personal growth, financial stability, and valuable experiences. However, it also comes with challenges, such as adapting to a new culture, being away from family and friends, and navigating unfamiliar regulations. By being proactive and prepared, you can mitigate these challenges and make the most of your time as an OFW.

Remember to stay connected with your loved ones, maintain a strong support network, and be aware of your rights and responsibilities as an OFW. Leverage the resources and assistance provided by the Philippine government, POEA, OWWA, and other organizations to protect your well-being and ensure a fulfilling and successful overseas employment experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is the role of the poea in assisting aspiring ofws.

A: The POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration) is responsible for promoting and regulating the deployment of Filipino workers to foreign countries. They ensure the protection and welfare of OFWs, maintain a comprehensive database of OFWs, and provide resources and support to help aspiring OFWs navigate the overseas employment process.

Q: How can I verify if a recruitment agency is legitimate and licensed by the POEA?

A: You can verify the legitimacy and license status of a recruitment agency by checking the POEA website ( www.poea.gov.ph ). They maintain an updated list of licensed recruitment agencies, including their contact information and license validity.

Q: What are the benefits provided to OFWs by the Philippine government?

A: OFWs receive various benefits from the Philippine government, such as membership in the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), which provides programs and services related to welfare, social, and health benefits. OFWs are also entitled to mandatory contributions to PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, and the Social Security System (SSS) for their social protection and long-term financial security.

Q: What is the purpose of the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS)?

A: The PDOS aims to prepare OFWs for their life and work abroad by providing information on the host country’s culture, laws, and regulations, as well as practical tips for adjusting to life abroad. It also educates OFWs about their rights and responsibilities and introduces them to available resources and support services in their host country.

Q: What should I do if I encounter problems or issues related to my employment while working overseas?

A: If you face any issues or problems related to your overseas employment, you can seek assistance from the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate in your host country. They can provide guidance, support, and intervention when necessary. Additionally, you can contact the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) or the POEA for assistance and advice on your rights and available options.

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November 24, 2022

Behind the limelight: life challenges and experiences of overseas filipino workers.

Long regarded as modern day heroes, many people look up to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as paradigms of success. They go out of the country in search of better opportunities and higher wages while playing an important role in sustaining the country’s economy.

Oftentimes, you can find an OFW success story being featured in blogs, social media, or local news outlets, proving that there’s a promising future waiting ahead for those who persevere. But behind the glimmer of these success stories, is a life of an overseas worker far from being a fairy tale dream. Unbeknownst to many are the hardships and life challenges OFWs have to face while working abroad in exchange for turning their dreams into reality.

What are the life challenges faced by OFWs?

Homesickness.

Filipinos are so tight-knit, that’s why it’s hard for our OFWs and migrant workers to be separated from their families and loved ones. And it’s even harder if they miss out on the special or important events like birthdays and graduations. They have to bear the pain of not seeing their children grow up just so they could provide a better life for them in return.

Luckily, through the advent of technology nowadays, just giving a quick video call to their loved ones will ease up the feeling of homesickness and makes the journey a bit bearable.

Family Matters

Problems within the family also arise like problematic in-laws who takes over the control of the household and financial aspects , spouses involving in extramarital affairs, and children going into rebellion mode because there’s no one to reprimand and watch over them.

These circumstances brings emotional and mental distress to OFWs on top of the stress they get from their respective job abroad.

Culture differences and language barriers

Working in a foreign land, it’s not surprising that a lot of Filipinos get culture-shocked. They leave the familiar corners of their homeland and try to adapt to a new cultural and social environment. This may cause stress and anxiety if not addressed immediately in the right way. There are ways on how one can cope with culture shock, starting from keeping an open mind and taking time to get used to these changes.

Money matters

It is known to us that the major reason why many Filipinos try their luck abroad is to earn big salaries enough to provide a better quality of life for their families and support children’s education. However, poor money management skills can lead to overspending and worse, huge debt. Here are some money mistakes OFWs should know and realize before it’s too late:

• Failing to save money- Many Overseas Filipino Workers commit mistakes of not saving or investing. Some become too complacent enough or spend most of their money on lavish lifestyle. It’s not bad to reward yourself sometimes, but you also have to set aside for savings and future investments.
• Falling into debt- OFWs fly off abroad in search for better opportunities, but before they can board the plane and land to their destination, they have to face high placement fees, pricey airfare tickets, and other expenses that entails their employment. Most of them borrow money from lenders or take up loans from banks just so they can push through abroad, with the reason that the income they’re going to get will be enough to pay off these debts. But some of them get paid less than they initially expected, prompting them to make sacrifices just so they erase debts while providing for their family.
• Volatile peso values- Money remittances sent by OFWs contribute greatly to the overall growth of the economy. This may lead into the thinking that more dollars equates to more wealth, but sadly that isn’t the case. As the dollar reserves in the country increases, it’s value against our currency decreases. Since most of the salaries of OFWs are paid in dollars, the peso value of their money decreases.
• Global gender pay gap- Do you know that female employees are paid 20% less than their male counterparts? This is another challenge faced by migrant workers belonging in the female group.
• Lending to family members or friends- Some friends or family members tend to reach out for financial help from OFWs. But when the time comes to pay the debt, some of them can no longer be contacted or make up excuses just so they can get away without paying what they owe. Being helpful isn’t a bad thing at all– but you should learn how to set limits and when to say no without hurting the feeling of the person.

Falling victim to illegal recruitment

Many Filipinos skip checking in with the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA) and fall for the smooth-talking of illegal recruiters. This leads to unprotected employment, exposing the migrant worker to employer abuse and exploitation.

When you decide to go overseas, don’t ever skip out on verifying with POEA if your recruitment agency is illegal or not. This will save you time, money, and effort in the long run.

Being framed up abroad

It’s one of the scariest (and we don’t mean to discourage you) things that could happen to someone who’s just searching for better opportunities in a foreign land. One unfortunate case was that of Pinay domestic worker Jakatia Pawa who was sentenced to death in 2017 after being accused of killing her employer’s daughter. Despite maintaining firm on her innocence and pleas from her family and the Philippine government, Pawa was still executed.

Jealousy, mistaken identity, or just finding someone to blame are the main culprits as to why OFWs are framed abroad.

Abuse and Exploitation

In 2020, about 5,000 cases of maltreatment of Filipino migrant workers was recorded ; 4,302 of these report came from the Middle East. The abuse comes in physical, mental, and sexual forms, and even racial discrimination from their own employers.

Despite the government’s efforts, abuse and exploitation are still rampant in foreign countries, especially if there are no authorities keeping an eye on and protecting our modern day heroes from abusive employers inside the confinements of their homes.

If you ever found yourself caught up in such situation, don’t be afraid to ask for help from Overseas Workers Welfare Association (OWWA), the nearest Philippine embassy, or you could even reach out to the Filipino community in your host country.

Violence, calamities, and outbreaks

When the war between Russia and Ukraine broke out, a lot of migrant Filipino workers are repatriated for their safety. Two years prior, the world suffered from the threats of the COVID-19 virus. Unstable political situations, global health outbreaks, and natural calamities may also affect Filipino workers abroad. They may find themselves getting caught up in the middle of protests or their lodgings destroyed by typhoons or earthquakes.

Cases like these are beyond the OFW’s control and are not easy to predict that’s why disaster preparedness and awareness are extremely crucial and handy in such turbulent times.

Balikbayan box problems

We all know that feeling of excitement when receiving balikbayan boxes. They are big boxes aimed to bring delight and wonder to every member of the family. But that’s not always the case.

Family members sometimes get caught up in disputes on who’s going to receive specific items and don’t forget about your neighbor expecting something from you, too.

Better yet write or put sticky notes with the receiver’s name on the gift to avoid such alterations. It’s also handy to search or ask the Filipino communities online which cargo forwarders are reliable to ensure that your parcel will get taken care of and delivered.

A Story to Tell

Every Overseas Filipino Worker has a story to tell– the life challenges and experiences they go through abroad. But sometimes, they prefer to put on a big smile to hide all their hardships and carry on with the burden of not wanting their loved ones to worry. However, in order to find solutions to a problem, we have to acknowledge its existence first.

The life challenges and experiences of Overseas Filipino Workers included in this list are just some of the few risks that come with the decision of working abroad. While experiences may vary from one foreign worker to another, it is undeniable that these things do happen. Preparedness and sticking to what is right will surely make a huge difference in overcoming them.

Looking for an affordable property? Contact us today

A lot of Filipinos dream of owning their first apartment or house and lot. With today’s booming real estate opportunities, there are so many options to choose from.

Here at Vistaland International, we have a roster of affordable property listings from several locations across the country. Whether you’re looking for a place to live in Manila, Cebu, Davao and etc, we’ve got you covered. So contact our real estate agents today!

Vistaland International was primarily created to bring OFW closer to their dream of finally acquiring a home in the Philippines. And with the rising cost of living in the country, OFWs and their families are looking for ways to earn extra cash flow to support their daily needs. Luckily, you can also join the global network of Vistaland International as a real estate professional and earn a commission!

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