What is an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW)?

An Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is a Filipino citizen who has left their country to work and live in another country for an extended period of time. OFWs are typically employed in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, education, hospitality, construction, engineering, and domestic work.

The decision to become an OFW is often driven by economic reasons. The Philippines has a large population of young and educated people, but job opportunities at home are often limited. Many Filipinos seek employment opportunities abroad to earn higher wages and provide better lives for themselves and their families.

OFWs can be found in many countries around the world, with the majority working in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Other popular destinations for OFWs include the United States, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

OFWs make significant contributions to the Philippine economy. In 2020, remittances from OFWs amounted to USD 29.9 billion, accounting for approximately 9.6% of the country’s gross domestic product. These remittances provide crucial support to the families of OFWs, as well as the wider Philippine economy.

Despite the economic benefits, working abroad can be challenging for OFWs. Many face difficult working conditions, including long hours, low pay, and limited access to basic rights and protections. Domestic workers, in particular, are often vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

Furthermore, OFWs must also cope with the emotional strain of being separated from their families for extended periods of time. Many OFWs experience loneliness, homesickness, and other emotional challenges that can impact their mental health and well-being.

To address these challenges, the Philippine government has implemented various programs and services to support OFWs. These include pre-departure orientation seminars, overseas workers welfare administration, and the establishment of Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO) in various countries around the world.

In addition to government support, OFWs also rely on the support of their families and communities back home. Many OFWs maintain close ties with their families and send remittances to support their children’s education, healthcare, and other basic needs.

In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the contributions and sacrifices of OFWs. The Philippine government has designated December 18 as the “Overseas Workers’ Day” to honor the contributions of OFWs and recognize their important role in the Philippine economy.

Finally, an Overseas Filipino Worker is a Filipino citizen who has left their home country to work and live abroad. While OFWs make significant economic contributions to the Philippines, they also face numerous challenges, including difficult working conditions and emotional strain from being separated from their families. Despite these challenges, OFWs continue to work hard and provide for their families, and their contributions are essential to the Philippine economy.