My thoughts about OFWs

There’s only one main reason for Filipinos to work abroad-- that’s for better job opportunities. They choose to work abroad since the Philippines can’t provide high paying jobs for most Filipinos and that salaries are much higher overseas. Filipinos are known to have strong family ties. Thus, going overseas may not be easy nor what their heart wants but it is what’s needed since life in the Philippines is poor and helpless. It is never easy because time and moments with family are compromised in exchange for salaries which can give them and their family a better life. Furthermore, going abroad comes with a lot of risks which include abuse and discriminations. OFWs are courageous enough to face these risks, making them our modern-day heroes. 

    The song of Gloc9 entitled “Walang Natira'' highlights the desire of Filipinos to get rich. This can be true since most of us are aware of the poor life that we have here in the Philippines and that we will do everything to get out of the poverty line and have a better life. This is why, even without certainty, Filipinos will go and work abroad. Unfortunately, many FIlipinos are confronted by discrimination and abused by their bosses. Given the disadvantages, many are willing to take the risk. That only proves that Filipinos are willing to do anything for their loved ones even if it would mean suffering for them. It also highlights sacrifices of the OFWs to be separated from their families. This is also one of the great challenges that OFWs have to endure. Oftentimes, they would feel homesick 

Aside from that, it also highlights that while remittances from OFWs are keeping the Philippine economy afloat. Growing number of OFWs has also long-term disadvantages--one of which is being brain dead. If the Philippine economy continues to be in a poor state. Then, many professionals such as nurses, educators, engineers will eventually choose to work abroad. Therefore, It will have a negative impact on the progress of our country, the Philippines. This is because OFW will contribute more to the development of other countries than to the development of the Philippines and that a lesser number of professionals will steer the country to progress. 

On the other hand, the song of Nora Aunor highlights the sacrifices of the OFWs and that we have to recognize their sacrifices. Hearing the song of Nora Aunor made my heart moved. I have big respect for Overseas Filipino Workers and they are close to my heart since my father is one of them. I am 21 years old and I was 8 when my father flew abroad for better job oppurtunities. Most of my life, he is not with me because he only goes home once every three years. I can say that poverty robbed the time that I would spend with him. 

Considering the efforts of OFW, they can really be considered as modern-day heroes.  They risk their lives working abroad, hoping to get their family out of the poverty line. Aside from that, Overseas FIlipino Workers have big contributions in making our economies afloat. They are very deserving with our salute and utmost respect.