Dela Cruz, Rica L.

1H BSBA

“Ang Mundo sa Mata ng OFW”

Introduction:
We aim to achieve more and improve our lives. These lead us to the act of going out of our
comfort zones and being surrounded by foreign people, things and languages. As we embrace
this concept, we become open to globalization. Many Filipinos have already taken the risk and
work abroad because there are not enough job opportunities in the country. Also, practicality
wise, it is because of the higher earnings they may have. Moreover, most if not all Overseas
Filipino Workers (OFW) depend on working abroad to support their families. It is not an easy
job to do since they are forced to work in an environment where their relatives are far from them.
This is one of the main reasons why OFWs are considered as heroes in the modern world. They
experience a lot of hardships physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally.

In this activity I was assigned to interview an OFW and it was an opportunity for me to learn
how they live here in the Philippines and the kind of life they have abroad. I also want to know
how an OFW is able to live abroad despite their longing for family. Luckily, I had a chance to
interview an OFW who is working as a Chief Cook in a cargo ship.

How long have you stayed abroad ?

- The interviewee has been an OFW for 9 year. He doesn't work in a specific country because he
is a seaman whose route is around the US and Asia.

What is your purpose or are your purposes for you to stay there?
- I end up doing this job because I have to work for a better life and for the future also of our
family.

What was your most unforgettable experience there? How will you describe them, good or bad?
- My unforgettable experience as an ofw was seeing beautiful views of different places, meeting
friendly people, shopping and strolling in other places, and eating overseas foods.

How will you compare the Philippines with other countries?

- I consider other countries as progressive than the Philippines. People there are disciplined and
they have a clean community, most especially the Japanese. They are friendly.

Do you want to go back abroad or to other countries in the future? Why or why not?
- I told myself that if I ever have the chance I would work abroad again, because I need a job that
would cater the needs of my family. And, being an OFW for years I think I am capable of doing
it again. My family and my dream drive me to do more and be more, and I think being an OFW
would help.