OFWs Can Use their Remittances More Profitably

This is a continuation of my previous post on the beasts of burden – the OFWs. We look at the current practices, and how we can improve it to bring about a positive bottom line – not just for OFWs but for the overall economic well being of the Philippines as well. Benigno demystifies the myth of OFW remittances contribution to the economy. In his recent GRP piece on OFW contributions he writes:

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OFWs: Evolving the Beast of Burden into the Tip of the Spear

I was doing a leisurely read on a humdrum topic which has become staple fodder of Pinoy melodrama and revenue – OFWs. It used to be a surreal topic, until I became an overseas Pinoy myself. I faced the same challenges – homesickness, isolation, finding my way around, building new social networks – and was fortunate enough to have mentors who showed me the ropes. From a feeling of guilt if am not making sacrifices for the “common good” to a sense of fulfillment in achieving a personal win. For the first time, I am able to define myself in terms of myself – not what my parents want, not what my cousins, barkada, kapitbahay, masahista, driver, maid, mom’s acquaintances, dad’s acquaintances – not having the entire barrio to tell you what you should do with your life. I, me, myself – on my terms. Oh by golly, the silence is sweet, priceless. From a person expected to conform you are given personal responsibility – no social nets, no kaibigan, kapatid, kamag-anak, koneksyon – you rise and fall on the basis of merit.

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