OFW Explained - Meaning of Overseas Filipino Worker

OFW means Overseas Filipino Worker. An OFW is a Filipino citizen who works abroad, either temporarily or permanently, to seek employment. They are often referred to as Mga Bagong Bayani or “modern-day heroes” because they contribute significantly to the Philippine economy through their remittances, which is the money they send back home to support their families and loved ones.

As an OFW , there are different paths and reasons for working abroad. Some may choose to work overseas in hopes of a better life and career opportunities, while others may be forced to do so due to economic hardships or lack of employment opportunities in the Philippines.

Table of Contents

Introduction to OFWs

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) have long been a key driver of the Philippines’ economy, with their remittances representing a significant portion of the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

These hardworking individuals leave their families behind, armed with the desire to provide better lives for their loved ones. In recent years, the number of OFWs has significantly increased, reaching over 2 million in 2019 according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

History and Evolution of OFWs

The phenomenon of Filipinos working abroad started in the 1970s when the Philippine government started to promote labor export to combat unemployment and kickstart economic growth.

With time, the number of OFWs has only grown, making the Philippines one of the top labor-exporting countries in the world. After all, the Philippines has a long history of migration, with many Filipinos leaving their homes to seek better opportunities and provide for their families.

OFWs have played a significant role in shaping the country’s image, and their contributions have not gone unnoticed.

OFWs in the Global Economy

OFWs play a crucial role in the global workforce, particularly in the fields of healthcare, construction, and domestic help. Their remittances back home significantly boost the Philippine economy and provide financial stability to their families.

In recent years, aside from skilled labor, Filipinos have also gone into different field paths abroad and are now recognized for their contribution to the creative industry, such as in music, arts, and film. This diversification of professions is a testament to the versatility and adaptability of OFWs.

Reasons Why Filipinos Work as OFWs

There are various reasons why Filipinos choose to work as OFWs, including economic hardship, lack of employment opportunities in the Philippines, and desire for a better life.

Economic Hardship: Many Filipinos come from low-income families and struggle to make ends meet. Working abroad offers an opportunity for higher wages and better living conditions.
Lack of Employment Opportunities: Despite the Philippines’ economic growth, there is still a lack of job opportunities in certain industries, leading many Filipinos to seek work abroad.
Desire for a Better Life: Some Filipinos see working abroad as an opportunity to improve their quality of life and provide a better future for their families. It also allows them to gain international experience and develop new skills.
Adventure and Cultural Exchange: For some, the opportunity to work abroad offers a chance for adventure and cultural exchange. They get to experience different cultures, learn new languages, and gain a broader perspective on life.
Supporting Family and Loved Ones: Many OFWs work hard to support their families back home, providing financial stability and opportunities for their loved ones.
Escape from Conflict or Natural Disasters: In times of conflict or natural disasters in their home country, some Filipinos choose to work abroad as a means of escape and provide for their families.
Higher Quality Education: Some OFWs choose to work abroad to earn money for their children’s education, which they may not be able to afford in the Philippines.
Retirement Savings: Working abroad also offers the opportunity for OFWs to save for their retirement, ensuring financial security in their later years.

Challenges Faced by OFWs

Despite their significant contributions to both the global and Philippine economies, OFWs face numerous challenges, including:

Homesickness and Isolation: Being far from their families and loved ones, OFWs often experience a deep sense of loneliness and isolation.
Working Conditions and Labor Issues: Some OFWs deal with unfair labor practices, such as long hours, low wages, poor working conditions, and even abuse from employers.
Culture Shock and Language Barriers: Adapting to a new culture and language can be daunting and stressful for many OFWs.
Health Risks: The physical and emotional demands of their jobs, coupled with the lack of access to healthcare, heighten the health risks faced by OFWs.
Legal and Documentation Issues: OFWs often encounter problems such as contract substitution, illegal recruitment, and documentation issues.
Financial Management Issues: Despite earning higher wages abroad, some OFWs struggle with managing their finances, with remittances often used for immediate consumption rather than savings or investments.
Reintegration Issues: Many OFWs find it challenging to reintegrate into Philippine society after years of working abroad.

The Role of the Government

The Philippine government has initiated several programs to protect the rights of OFWs. These include the creation of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the implementation of policies to ensure fair treatment and just compensation for OFWs.

The government also provides support for OFWs in terms of legal and financial assistance, training and reintegration programs, and social benefits.

Personal Stories of OFWs

Behind these numbers and statistics are real stories of sacrifice, perseverance, and resilience. These stories range from tales of triumph, highlighting OFWs who have found success in their chosen fields, to narratives of struggle, showing the harsh realities that some OFWs face. Here are some profiles of OFWs who share their work jobs and personal highlights below:

Mara’s Story – The Nurse: Mara moved to the United States in the 1990s. Trained as a nurse in the Philippines, she found a job in a hospital in New York, where she has worked for nearly 30 years. She sends remittances home to her family regularly and returns to her homeland whenever she can.
Rico’s Story – The Domestic Helper: Rico left his family to work as a domestic helper in the Middle East. Despite the physical exhaustion and the emotional toll of being away from his family, Rico perseveres because he knows that his sacrifices provide for his family’s needs back home.
Liza’s Story – The Engineer: Liza, a civil engineer, was offered a lucrative job in Singapore. Although she faced cultural and language barriers, her determination and hard work have led her to become a respected figure in her field.
Elena’s Story – The Seafarer: Elena, one of the few female Filipino seafarers, braved the typically male-dominated industry to provide a better life for her children. Her story is a testament to the courage and resilience of Filipino women.
Paolo’s Story – The Entertainer: As a musician, Paolo found his career taking off when he joined a cruise ship as part of the onboard entertainment. Despite the unstable nature of his job, he is proud to represent Filipino talent to international audiences.
Juan’s Story – The Construction Worker: Juan left for Saudi Arabia to work on construction projects. Even amid hazardous conditions, Juan has been able to provide a steady stream of income to his family back in the Philippines.
Maria’s Story – The Teacher: Maria moved to Japan as an English teacher. Not only has she managed to adapt to Japanese culture, but she has also been able to send her siblings to college with her remittances.
Pedro’s Story – The Returnee: After years of working as a chef in Europe, Pedro decided to return to the Philippines and start his restaurant, using the skills and experience he gained abroad. His story is a reminder of the potential for OFWs to contribute to their home country’s development.

Agencies that work with OFWs

There are several agencies in the Philippines that provide support and assistance to OFWs, including:

Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA): This government agency provides welfare services and benefits for OFWs, such as financial aid and training programs.
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW): The DMW works to promote and protect the rights and welfare of OFWs, including providing legal assistance and support.
Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE): Ensures the protection and promotion of the welfare of OFWs while they are in the Philippines.
Commission on Filipino Overseas (CFO): This agency promotes the rights and well-being of Filipinos overseas, as well as their integration into Philippine society upon their return.
Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA): This government agency is responsible for regulating and monitoring overseas employment, including the recruitment and deployment of OFWs.
Migrant Workers Office (MWO): Formerly called, Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), the MWO provides assistance as the actual office for OFWs in terms of assistance and protection to OFWs in their respective host countries.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA): Assists OFWs with legal and consular services, such as passport renewal and repatriation.
Embassies and Consulates: These offices provide assistance to OFWs in their respective countries of deployment.

Conclusion

OFWs have become an integral part of the Philippine society and economy. Despite the many challenges they face, their contributions to both the global economy and their homeland remain invaluable.

As we move forward, it is crucial to continue safeguarding their welfare and honoring their sacrifices.