Open Letter to POEA Chief of Staff

To :  Atty. Josefino Naval
         Chief of Staff
         Philippine Overseas Employment Administration
         Manila, Philippines

Dear Atty. Josefino Naval,

Sir, magandang araw po sa inyo! Ako po si Bong Amora, isa pong OFW sa KSA at isa rin pong community leader at blogger.  Pangalawang sulat katanongan na po namin ito sa inyo at siyanga pala maraming salamat muli sa inyong agarang pagtugon sa una po namin na sulat katanongan na nailathala po dito sa ating blog titled: To: OFWs Bound for Taiwan.

Ang pangalawang sulat-katanongan po na ito ay tungkol pa rin po sa mga katanongan ng mga kahanay namin na nais mangibang-bansa sa Taiwan.

Itinatago ko muna siya sa pangalan na “Milagring” for obvious reason pero ang separate email ko po sa inyo ay ang tunay niyang pangalan at email address. Kalakip po nito ang kanyang sulat sa akin (ibaba) na kayo po lamang ang makapagbigay linaw. 

Siyanawa, sa pangalawang pagkakataon ay inyo pong tugonan ang aming mga katanongan.

Salamat at lubos na gumagalang,

Manuel A. Amora
Secretary General
OFW Congress-Riyadh
*****

Dear Sir Bong,

Ganito ba ang Bagong Bayani? Sa RECRUITMENT AGENCY pa lang, NAGDURUSA NA.. ano naman kayang pagdurusa ang madadatnan ko sa bansang aking pupuntahan??

Ako po ay isang aplikante ng isang agency, bale Taiwan Care taker. Netong last week po nag withdraw ako sa application ko kasi po almost 4 months na ako nag apply pero wala pa pong kasiguraduhan kung makakaalis pa ko although sinabi nila my employer na ko at on-going processing pa contract ko. Dahil nga po sa katagalan nag decide na ko na sabihin sa agency na mag baback-out na ko. Nung sinabi ko po ‘yun saka nila sinabi na dyan na daw ung contract, galit na galit po ‘yung may ari ng agency sa kin at pinagmumura ako at sinigawan sa harap ng mga tao at pinukpok pa ng malakas ‘yung mesa nya. Pinagtulungan po ko ng assistant ng me ari ng agency sa pagsisinungaling at kung ano anong sinasabi. Hinahanap ko naman po kung san ‘yung sinasabi nilang contract pero nagalit pa po sila at sinabing bakit pa nila papakita eh magwiwithdraw na ko. Ibig sabihin po ‘nun talagang wala pa kasi wala silang mapakita kaya po pinnindigan ko na na withdraw na talaga ako. Pinalayas po ko sa office nung sabihin ko na kelangan ko rin kunin ‘yung down payment ko. Di na po ko pinabalik sa loob at sinabi na lang na mag-antay ako.

Marami na po ako nakausap at nakilala na applicant na nagwiwithdraw at nagcocomplain dahil sa sobrang tagal ng processing sa agency na to. Di ko naman po alam na ganito pala ang ugali ng may-ari, kelangan pang magsinungaling para maperahan lang ang mga tao at sinisindak pa ya para matakot. Isa pa po, may isang aplikante na hiningan nila ng down payment dahil my contract na daw pero after magbyad at hinanap ‘yung contract walang mapakita, nawawala daw po at hahanapin pa.

Bago po ang lahat nag insidenteng ito gusto ko lamang po itemized ‘yung mga ginawa pa ng agency namin:

Una po, nung sabihin po ng agency na may employer na ko humihingi po sila ng down payment para daw sa processing, nagbigay naman po ko ng initial na P18,000 kasi required po nila is P20k, wala po ko nun pinirmahan kahit job order man lang. Wala rin silang inisyu na resibo, nirecord lang nila sa record nila. After po nun 2 months pa ko nag antay pero wala pa rin balita, lagi po ko nagpa follow-up pero lagi nilang sinasabi na on-going processing na contract ko.

Pangalawa po, nagpapatraining po ang agency sa mga applicants nila para gawing katulong sa office nila at pinaglilinis ng CONDO ng may ari ng agency, araw araw po naglilinis ng office, nagluluto rin po kami at na- assign nga po sa ‘kin ‘yung 5 CR sa general cleaning kasi 3 storey yung building .Yung iba nga po kahit walng pang employer gusto nila magtraining agad. Ang reason po nila kung bakit ginagawa namin ‘yun para daw matuto kami incase na nasa Taiwan na marunong na kami. Ang nakakpagtaka po kasi nagtraining na kami sa TESDA, nagbyad nga po kami para matuto at magka certificate pero bakit kelangan pa namin gawin ‘yung pinapagawa ng agency?

Dahil po sa pangyayaring ito gusto ko lang po itanong ang mga bagay na to:

  1. Tama po ba ‘yung panghihingi ng down payment ng agency kahit wala pang contract or job order na pinipirmahan at di nila pag isyu ng resibo? may katapat po ba tong kaparusahan sa batas?
  2. Ano po ba dapat kung gawin dun sa ginawang pagsigaw at pagmura sa kin ng may ari ng agency at pagsasabwatan ng assitant neto.
  3. Makukuha ko pa po ba ‘yung down payment ko sa agency na P18,000, pinag-aantay po kasi nila ko at walang kasiguraduhan kung kelan.
  4. Magbabayad naman po ako kung totoong na-process na nila application ko pero pano ko po maveverify na binayaran nga nila ‘yun para po di ako maloko. Incase po ba na di nila talga binayaran ‘yung mga expenses at nagsinugaling sila may kaparusahan din po ba ‘yun?
  5. Yung pagpapa training po ba ng agency sa mga applicant ay legal, pano po kung wala silang permit?
  6. Tama po na kapag ang salary ng OFW ay P26,900 pwedeng P108,000 ang placement fee? Sabi kasi ng may ari ng agency alam daw po ng POEA ‘yun kasi nakikinabang daw naman sila.
  7. Sino po ba pwede ko lapitan incase hindi ibigay ng agency ‘yung down payment ko at mga documents ko.

Sana po masagot nyo mga katanungan ko.

Maraming salamat po.

Milagring

OFW Congress-Riyadh hosted a Dinner in honor of OFW Dr. Lito Astillero

Chris Lavinia, POLO Welfare Officer Nestor Burayag, Resty Sibug, Marilyn Lavinia, H.E. Ambassador Ezz Tago (barong), Gob Dimalotang, Oscar Domingo, Dr. Lito Astillero (yellow arrow) & Robert Ramos

RIYADH, Saudi ArabiaOFW Congress, an advocacy group comprised of various Filipino community organizations in Riyadh hosted a farewell dinner get-together in honor of Dr. Lito Astillero dubbed as the “Father of the OFWs in the Kingdom”. The farewell dinner get-together was held at Al-Nafoura Restaurant in Riyadh, Wednesday  night.

Astillero, who is from Western Mindanao, has been an OFW for the past 23 years in the Kingdom as Laboratory Director at Al-Mishari Hospital in Riyadh. He also worked in Iran and Libya, summing up as an OFW for the last 35 years.

Among those who came to bid farewell to Dr. Lito Astillero is no less than the Philippine Ambassador-designate to the Kingdom, H.E. Ambassador Ezzedin Tago.

The get-together was more than a celebration for an OFW who is leaving Saudi Arabia for good, the country he considered a second home for the past 23 years. But it was also a historic moment when one by one, the community leaders stood and narrated all the good things and deeds he has been doing to the OFW Community.

Dr. Lito Astillero had been an active community leader, adviser, philanthropist and fund campaigner whenever calamities struck the Philippines. Among the organizations he headed is the Organization of the Knights of Rizal (OKOR) of which he was Founding Regional Commander (Formerly called Area Commander), Middle East and Africa Area Council, from 2002 to 2004; Founding Chairman, Gabay ng Manggagawang Pilipino Party, 1999 to 2002; Chairman, BIMPCO Multipurpose Cooperative in 1997 to 2000; Chairman, PUNO “Pagkakaisa at Unawaan ng mga Organisasyon” from 1996 to 1997; President, BAR “Basketball Association of Riyadh” in 1993 to 1996; President, BISAYA “Bisayang Igsoon sa Saudi Arabia, 1996 to 1997; Board of Director, Philippine Embassy International School of Riyadh, 1996 to 1997; President, Filipino Community of Libya, Misurata, Libya, 1979 to 1981; President, Filipino Community of Iran, Bandar Abbas Iran in 1976 to 1978.

He earned his degree at Southwestern University and placed 9th in the 1968 Medical Board Exam. Presently, his family is residing in Labangon, Cebu City. The doctor and his wife Elena have five children, which include two doctors, a nurse, an engineer and a lawyer.

During his stint as an Overseas Filipino Worker, he received various awards, including the Special Presidential Award 1996 – Banaag at Sikat, the San Lorenzo Ruiz Award for Outstanding OFW (1994) both awarded by former President Fidel Ramos; the Bagong Bayani Award (1992) by former President Cory Aquino; and the Most Outstanding Filipino in Saudi Arabia (1990) by the Philippine Embassy.

Ambassador designate Ezzedin Tago in his short remraks was saddened to hear that Dr. Astillero will leave the Kingdom for good, “Dr. Astillero is a well respected Filipino community leader, we will surely missed him but we must continue his unfinished task and he should be our inspiration in doing what is good for the OFWs,” Tago said.

Tago also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the OFW Congress for the support he get since from the beginning he was assigned in Riyadh as Philippine Embassy Charge D’ Affaires. He emphasized that it is still improper addressing him as “Ambassador”, for the fact that he still need an official acceptance from the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud on his appointment as Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom. “Without it (official acceptance) I am still the Charge D’ Affaires and Consul General of our Embassy” he said.

After his remarks, Tago excused himself to prepare for his flight to Kazakhstan as part of the Philippine delegation in the 38th Session of the Organization of Islamic Conference of Foreign Ministers. Philippines is seeking OIC permanent observer status since 2008. OIC is the second largest intergovernmental organization after the United Nations.

Astillero was also thankful to the OFW Congress in hosting the said Farewell Dinner Get-Together in his honor. “I am truly honored and I really appreciate your gesture in hosting this dinner” he said. “I just hope that you will continue helping our fellow compatriots in distress” Astillero is referring to those unfortunate OFWs in distressed seeking help from the community. He also asked the OFW Congress-Riyadh  to  rally behind the newly installed Philippine Chief of Mission in the Kingdom.

Gob Dimalotang, founding President of PHILMOWA (Philippine Moslem Overseas Workers Movement) said, “there will never be another Dr. Astillero in our heart” while Allan Macabangkit of Shakba says “It is not enough for us to say Goodbye and Thank you to our beloved Big Brother”.

Dante Pangcoga of Integrated Mindanao Economic Forum said, “If only I can stop him not to go, I will stop him, Dr. Astillero is a person hard to be replaced.”

OFWC Executive Vice President Faisal Sarque described Dr. Astillero as an icon. “Even we have diverse opinion on certain issue but we are still friends in and outside the community” Sarque said.

Sarque handed to Dr. Lito Astillero a “Certificate of Recognition” from OFW Congress-Riyadh for his outstanding commitment and dedication advocating the interest, well-being and welfare of the Overseas Filipino Workers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

In 2008, Astillero was endorsed by OFW Congress-Riyadh along  with OFW advocates and organizations worldwide to the top OWWA post, but the former Arroyo administration choose Carmelita Dimzon, a long-time official of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) as chief of the Overseas Workers’ Welfare Administration (OWWA).

Just recently, OFW Congress-Riyadh handed to Philippine Vice President Jejomar Binay during his visit in Riyadh a recommendation asking the Government to appoint a land based OFWs from Saudi Arabia to sit as OWWA and POEA Board respectively. The OFW Congress did not in particular endorse any personalities for the mentioned seats but two of their Executive Council members were endorsed by other group namely Engr. Robert Ramos and so with Dr. Lito Astillero.

When asked about the rumor that a certain group at home is seeking for his seat in the POEA and OWWA Board, Astillero neither confirm nor deny it, but he assured that he would continue advocating issues and concern affecting the lives of the OFWs at site and their families at home.

OFWC President Alex Bello who is currently in Philippines sent a message to Dr. Astillero posted at Facebook “now you can spearhead to empower the OFWs & Ex-OFWs & Families here in our homeland”. Bello is referring that Dr. Astillero can now be an active campaigner of OFW empowerment at home. Just recently Alex Bello and OFW families in Region 8 formed the “Pagkakaisa OFW Family, Region 8.” The concept is to organize Pagkakaisa OFW Family in all regions nationwide which aimed to bring and empower OFW families into the mainstream of the Philippine society. -End-

Handa ka na ba?

In the depths of isolation and loneliness an Overseas Filipino Worker in Saudi Arabia struggles to find a compromise between holding on to his dreams and keeping his family together.

Is the promise of a better life worth the price he’s paying?

Malumbay ang puso

Ikaw ay nasa malayo

Ngunit  baonin mo mahal…

Pangako, kailan man

Hindi mawawalay

Pusong naghihintay…

Happy Father’s Day! To: All OFW  Father in the Middle East

Tidbits: R.A. 10022, FWRC or BK

June 7, 2011 – A  Migrant Workers Day Blog Post

What are the difference between  Section 19 of R.A. 8042 and Section  12 of R.A. 8042 as Amended  (R.A. 10022)?  and –  Who is responsible for the repatriation of OFW in Distressed?  

A:  ESTABLISHMENT OF A MIGRANT WORKERS AND OTHER OVERSEAS (OFRC or FWRC) FILIPINOS RESOURCE CENTER

R.A. 8042 Sec. 19 (Second Paragraph)

The establishment and operations of the Center shall be a joint undertaking of the various government agencies. The Center shall be open for twenty-four (24) hours daily, including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, and shall be staffed by Foreign Service personnel, service attaches or officers who represent other organizations from the host countries. In countries categorized as highly problematic by the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Labor and Employment and where there is a concentration of Filipino migrant workers, the government must provide a lawyer and a social worker for the Center. The Labor Attache shall coordinate the operation of the Center and shall keep the Chief of Mission informed and updated on all matters affecting it.

REPUBLIC ACT No. 8042 as AMENDED (R.A. 10022), Sec. 12

Section 12. The second paragraph of Sec. 19 of Republic Act No. 8042, as amended, is hereby amended to read as follows:

 ”The establishment and operations of the Center shall be a joint undertaking of the various government agencies. The Center shall be open for twenty-four (24) hours daily including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, and shall be staffed by Foreign Service personnel, service attaches or officers who represent other Philippine government agencies abroad and, if available, individual volunteers and bona fide non-government organizations from the host countries. In countries categorized as highly problematic by the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Labor and Employment and where there is a concentration of Filipino migrant workers, the government must provide a Sharia or human rights lawyer, a psychologist and a social worker for the Center. In addition to these personnel, the government must also hire within the receiving country, in such number as may be needed by the post, public relation officers or case officers who are conversant, orally and in writing, with the local language, laws, customs and practices.  The Labor Attache shall coordinate the operation of the Center and shall keep the Chief of Mission informed and updated on all matters affecting it.”

***

B:  FWRC or Bahay Kalinga in Riyadh re: ADMISSION POLICIES

1) The  shelter admits female Household Service Workers (HSWs) who appear in person at the Philippine Embassy/POLO-OWWA within a reasonable period of time after they run away from their employers.

2) Upon admission, the HSW is oriented on BK House Rules and is informed of amicable settlement and repatriation procedures through the services of the Philippine Embassy/POLO-OWWA and the Saudi Social Welfare Administration (SSWA).

3) The shelter  does not admit HSWs who have long stayed with other employers or with fellow Filipinos after running away from their sponsors (so-called TNTs), but shall help them get endorsed to SSWA for clearance and exit visa procedures.

4) In specific cases, TNTs may be admitted with the written endorsement of the Embassy. Such cases include trafficked victims.

5) Those admitted are not allowed to work for other employers.

6) Those who were previously admitted but subsequently ran away from the shelter are not re-admitted.

Part of the assistance provided the wards at the FWRC is their endorsement to the Social Welfare Administration (SSWA) of the Saudi government within a reasonable period of time after mediation efforts by POLO case officers fail.

Counselling –  POLO-OWWA Riyadh provides counselling to OFWs who get in touch in person or by phone with POLO-OWWA officers for various queries related to their employment and stay in Saudi Arabia.

Repatriation AssistanceRepatriation services include negotiations with the employer, police and/or immigration authorities; plane ticket sourcing; booking and re-booking facilitation and airport assistance in Riyadh and in Manila.

***

C:  Who is responsible for the repatriation of OFW in Distressed

Under normal circumstances, it is the joint responsibility of the employer, the Philippine recruitment agency and the Saudi manpower agency (if there is any) to repatriate the OFW pursuant to provisions of Republic Act No. 8042, as amended by Republic Act 10022. In case the employer and/or the agency is unable to repatriate the worker, the Philippine government through the OWWA in case of regular/documented worker or the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in case of irregular/undocumented worker- shall repatriate the distressed worker upon request of POLO or the Philippine Embassy.

The POLO does not maintain a stand-by fund for the repatriation of workers. Prior approval by either OWWA or DFA is required for this purpose on a case-to-case basis.

R.A. 8042, SEC. 15. REPATRIATION OF WORKERS; EMERGENCY REPATRIATION FUND. – The repatriation of the worker and the transport of his personal belongings shall be the primary responsibility of the agency which recruited or deployed the worker overseas. All costs attendant to repatriation shall be borne by or charged to the agency concerned and/or its principal. Likewise, the repatriation of remains and transport of the personal belongings of a deceased worker and all costs attendant thereto shall be borne by the principal and/or local agency. However, in cases where the termination of employment is due solely to the fault of the worker, the principal/employer or agency shall not in any manner be responsible for the repatriation of the former and/or his belongings.

WE Pray..

Our Prayer

There are rumors circulating around the Filipino community about the protest in the coming days. There will be or not, WE, Filipinos should be aware of our status in the Kingdom. As a visitor in this oil rich country, we must be careful of what we are doing in our daily lives, like roaming around the city, staying late at night in the streets and having fun in groups around malls and restaurants and other places where the local authorities might sense it as a gathering with purpose.

What we need to do is to pray that what is going on now in Libya will never be happen in this country. We loved this country like our home, a country that provides us job and golden opportunities. Though some of us are not lucky enough, but majority of us Filipinos in Saudi Arabia have managed to become successful in their lives  dahil sa “Katas ng Saudi”.  Many Filipinos consider that working in Saudi Arabia is a privileged.

Although most Saudis I mingled concur that “it is highly unlikely to happen in this country” where the government is very supportive to its people.  Like any other countries in the world, it is natural for the people to air their grievances and needed some reforms.  But it should be done in a proper forum.

To fellow Filipinos, Muslims and Christians, let us join our hands in prayer  that  if such action will takes place, we pray   that cooler heads will prevail  and the reprehensible action of the few will not result in equally reprehensible retaliatory acts of violence, in GOD Almighty, WE PRAY. Amen!

Angat ka nga Pinoy!

ANGAT KA NGA PINOY!

Habang naglalakad, tumitingin tingin, ng aking mabili
Nang maipadala, sa aking pamilya, sapagkat nawili
Habang namimili, tanong ng tindero, ‘ko daw ba’y nepali
Sa arabong wika, sagot ko sa kanya, ”ana Pilipini”

Tinderoy nag”thumbs up”, ibig na sabihin, ayos daw ang pinoy
Sa bargain na damit, sa paghahalungkat, akoy nagpatuloy
Habang nagka kalkal, may pagmamalaking, sa isip sumibol
Sapagkat ramdam ko, at napatunayang, ANGAT KA NGA PINOY

Isa dalwa tatlo, apat lima anim, marahil ay walo
Mga dominanteng, mga manggagawa, sa bansang arabo
Sa ganda ng papel, na ating ginampang, mga pilipino
Nasumpungan tayong, lagi sa listahang, nag numero uno

Hindi bat yay dahil, sa tayo ay tapat, sa ating tungkulin
Ano mang iatas, bastat makakaya, ay ating gagawin
Kayat ang tiwala, sa ating sarili, ay pana tilihin
Isiping tayo ay, mga pilipinong, may talento’t galing

Imahen ng ating, lahing dinadalay, ating pag ingatan
Papel na kayputi, ni kahit, gatuldok, huwag dudungisan
Nang di man dumating, ganda nitong bukas, sa Lupang Hinirang
May matatakbuhang, mainit na bansang, naghihintay lamang

By: Briggs Napicog

Open Letter from Ex-OFW Marge

An Open Letter from Ex-OFW Marge

I’ve been an OFW before in Saudi Arabia who experienced the worst thing that can be happened to a woman with their employer, and i thank God na nakauwi pa ako ng buhay by the help of our POLO Jeddah / Riyadh and Phil. Embassy and now I’m working in a Fully Public Service Program in Radio and TV. As of now, isa ako sa mga concern citizen na gustong iparating sa inyong tanggapan ang mga hinaing ng ating mga kapwa OFW’s na may mga anak o nagka anak,mga babae at lalaki na nasa Malaz Jail, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  Nakatanggap ako ng mga tawag at mga text messages mula sa ating mga kabayan na nasa loob ng Malaz.  Oo,nagkasala sila sa batas ng Saudi,pero sapat ba iyon upang doon na lamang tayo babase o titingin at hayaan na lang sila sa sitwasyon nila? Kaya tayo mayroon mga kinatawan sa kahit saang bansa upang tulungan at i trato ng maayos ang kapwa natin Filipino. Pasensya na,kaya nasasabi ko ito dahil naranasan ko at nakita ang pagtrato ng ating ibang kinatawan sa mga kapwa natin ofw na nanghihingi ng tulong sa kinauukulan ng Embahada. Isa lamang akong daan upang maitawid sa inyo ang hinaing ng ating mga kabayan na bigyan sila ng pansin at nawa ay matulungan natin sila sa kanilang matagal ng hinaing. Pakisuyo po basahin ang kanilang mensahe na pinadala sa akin..

Pasko na naman, andito pa rin ako

from: 00966543605398- kami mga presong OFW dito sa Riyadh Malaz Jail ay nanawagan sa Pangulo ng Pilipinas at sa lahat ng mga kinatawan sa pagtulong sa amin. sana po inyong bigyan ng pansin ang aming mga kaso,sa pangatlong taon po namin dito magpapasko na naman sana po makasama na namin ang aming mga mahal sa buhay. Tulungan ninyo po kami.

from: 00966543605398- gud am po,sa pamamagitan ng telebisyon ng mamamayan ng bansang Pilipinas,..muli, kaming mga nakabilanggo dito sa Malaz Jail, Riyadh, Saudi ay nanawagan sa ating Pangulo Benigno Aquino lll at Bise Presidente Jejomar Binay.  Huwag lang po sana ang mga nasa labas at mga sosyalan ang mapagtuunan ng pansin.  Higit pong kailangan ng mga nakakulong ang tulong ninyo.  MAGPAPASKO NA NAMAN PO, ANDITO PA RIN KAMI. NAGMAMAKAAWA PO KAMI SA INYO AT SA LAHAT NG KINAUUKULAN NA TULUNGAN NINYO KAMI NA MAKAUWI NA. Udyukan nawa kayo ng AWA ng DIYOS na tumulong sa amin.. Kung saan na lumapit ang aming pamilya sa lahat ng ahensya ng gobyerno sa Pilipinas ngunit walang nangyari. Muli, bigyan nyo kmi ng pansin.

Mula po sa amin na OFW’s JESIE SUMEJO, MAURO DUATIN, VICENTE NIEGOS, ROMEO ALIT at iba pang Filipino na andito sa loob ng Malaz Jail.

Lubos puso ko pong itinatawid sa inyong tanggapan ang mga hinaing ng ating mga kabayan na mapag aralan at mabigyan ng katugunan ang kanilang mga kaso.

 

From: EX-OFW Marge

Father’s Day Sticky Post: “Dahil Ako’y Tatay”

DAHIL AKO’Y TATAY

by: Brigido “Briggs” Napicog  (OFW-KSA)

Pitong tatauning, batang sumisigaw, tatay,tatay, tatay
Patakbong yumakap, sa amang dumating, galing hanap buhay
Sa mukhang kay amo, ay masasalamin mo, ang ligayang tunay
Sabik na kumalong, sa amang sang linggong, di niya nasilay

"Kalong"

Kahit na nga pagod, sa sanglinggong gawa, yaring kanyang ama
Anak na kaylambing, buong pagmamahal, niyakap din niya
Kasunod ng kanyang, malalim na hugot, ng buntong hininga
At nang kumawalay, napalis ang hapong, kanyang nadarama

Ito’y isang tagpo, ng ikot ng buhay, nang akoy naron pa
Nang akoy naron pa, sa sariling bansat , kasamay pamilya
Subalit nang dahil, sa pamilyang mahal, tumulak mag isa
Lumayo sa bansa, sapagkat pag asay, hindi ko makita

Sino sa atin ang, mulat mula pa ay, inibig malayo
Sa sariling bayang,kinasanayan na, ng isip at puso
At sino rin ba ang,ninais mawalay, higit pa nga lalo
Sa’ting kaibigan, kaanak kadugo’t, pamilyang binuo

Ikaw ako’t sila, di bat isasagot, wala kahit isa
Ngunit nagaganap, upang ang pangarap, mabigyang pag asa
Paanong di gayon sa sariling bansa, ay di nga makita
Liwanag sa daang, nilayong tahakin, nitong bawat isa

Dal’wang taong singkad, nagtiis naghirap, sa bansang kay init
Ngayon akoy lulan, ng isang sasakyan, na pang himpapawid
Habang naglalakbay, lumilipad din ang, diwa ko at isip
Di ko maitago, para sa pamilya, aking pagka sabik

Kung nooy sang linngo, kung akoy umuwi, galing hanap buhay
Ngayoy dal’wang taon , ano sa tingin nyo, tagpong masisilay
Anak kong kaylambing, ramdam ko na noon, mahal akong tunay
Hindi bat mas higit, dapat kong itugon, DAHIL AKOY TATAY.

Open Reply to Rose

Dear Rose,

Hindi ako taga OWWA, isa rin po akong OFW na katulad ninyo. Nais ko rin pong mag for good pero hindi pa sapat ang naiipon para makapagsimula. Nakapag loan na rin ako sa OWWA pero ito ay sa contruction ng fence sa aking bahay, maliit lamang pero nakatulong na rin sa akin ang OWWA. I’ll share you a little about OWWAs OFW reintegration program.

OWWA has already an existing livelihood program for returning OFWs who don’t want to work abroad again. This program is a joint undertaking of OWWA and National Livelihood Support Fund (NLSF). The program helps OFWs to become an entrepreneur when they decide to return into the mainstream of our society. It is not just only for individuals but also to organizations. Possible business opportunities are 1) general merchandise and buy and sell, groceries etc. 2) repair shops, carenderia, parlors etc., 3) Meat and fruit processing etc 4) agri-business.

All OFWs and their dependents can avail for a loan, all you need to do is to visit OWWA Regional office near in your area. I advice you na sa ngayon palang na andito ka, papuntahin mo na ang member ng iyong pamilya or asawa para magtanong sa mga kailangan kung paano maka avail sa loan para sa pag uwi mo handa ka na sa iyong gagawin.

If ever you’re residing Laguna, instruct your family members to visit ATIKHA in San Pablo, Laguna. This NGO or Non-government organization helps OFW and OFW family members in determining viable business in your area. They will give training and assist you to start the operation. If you have time please visit this site:    http://www.atikha.org/index.php 

Good luck and please share this message to our fellow OFWs.

Salamat sa pagbisita.

Bong

P.S. To my readers and fellow OFW, I just want to share with you a Video taken at ATIKHA web site. The title of this Video  is  “Migrants’ children struggle with absence of loved ones.”

True or Not, WE deserve to know

True or not, WE deserve to know

Riyadh, 7  October 2010 - Four Filipina nurse were abducted and allegedly victims of rape in two separate incidents, according to Filipino migrant rights group in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Alarmed with such incidents Kapatiran sa Gitnang Silangan-Middle East appeal to the Philippine Embassy to conduct an investigation regarding the gruesome details of the incident allegedly done to the Filipina nurses.

According to KGS chairperson Eric Jocson, who conducted their own investigation, the victims were Filipina nurses working in several hospitals in Riyadh. In the first case, announced by Jocson one of the victims works in Riyadh Kharj Hospital (RKH) also known as Riyadh Military Hospital.

Crime against woman: naked realities

Based on initial investigation, the nurse was among the passengers of the hospital bus service but she was left behind and decided to take a cab. While on the way to her accommodation, unidentified man blocked the cab and forced the victim to his car. The Filipina nurse was found later in the desert and in critical condition. It was learned that there was an indication that she was abused. After two weeks the victim died.

In the second case, according to Jocson, three Filipina nurses who work in the National Guard Hospital in the same city were walking from their accommodation to buy something at a nearby department store. According to the witnesses, a car suddenly stops and forced the three Filipina nurses into their car.

After few days, the three Filipinas were found in a remote area in the mentioned city. The shocking discovery showed signs that the victims were gang raped based on the initial medical examination results that there were lacerations on sensitive parts of their bodies. Suspects of this heinous series of acts to Filipina nurses are still at-large.

Engr. Faizal Sharque, Executive Council member of the OFW Congress-Riyadh, a group of Filipino Community organizations and leaders advocating OFW issues and concerns reminds everyone not only to Filipina nurses working in this oil rich region to refrain from going out at nights. “Nurses who are invited by other nationalities and even fellow Filipinos outside their accommodation during night in any given places and time should not accept invitation”,  Sharque said.

“We are not in Manila where you can just roam around and paint the town red”, he added.

Member organizations of OFW Congress are also requesting the Philippine Embassy to investigate this ghastly news around the Filipino Community.

“Our nurses are here because our country can’t provide job to thousands of nursing graduates each year; and they received such horrifying deaths in exchange for a dollar”, OFWC said.

OFWC added that “the Filipino community leaders in Riyadh sincerely appeals to the good Consul General Ezzedin Tago to look into this matter, true or not, Filipino deserve to know if this country is still safe to us OFWs. If it is true please seek justice on our behalf”.

Consul General Ezzedin Tago has been recently designated by the Secretary of Foreign Affairs as Charge D’Affaires, ad interim, of the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh. He was the Consul General of the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah prior to his transfer in Riyadh.

In 2008, a rape case dubbed as “Rape on Christmas Eve” was the one greeted the good Consul General in the first days of his duty as Consul General in Jeddah, now, the same greetings in Riyadh in the first week of his duty.

“KSA National Day” – Give us and Treat us what WE Deserve

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia "National Day"

Filipinos like me don’t realize how much Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has done to the thousands of Filipinos seeking greener pasture in this oil rich region. Many are lucky, some were unlucky. Successful OFW returnees were able to buy properties, build house, own businesses, become investors, provide good education for the children and others. All of these we called “Katas ng Saudi”.

But yes! It is true that some of us are not doing well working in Saudi Arabia, like all the other nationalities does in every other country. Broken families after long separation, workers rights were violated, some went home abused, maltreated and worst arrived home in a box. Other says the main concern of Filipinos in Saudi Arabia is the cultural and religious differences. However, we can’t argue that we don’t have any other choice but to keep coming back in this desert land  rather than building lives at home in poverty.

Nevertheless, this country gives hope to thousands of Filipinos dreaming for a good and better future at home. Though, there are reports of abuses, maltreatment and contract violations in this country, majority of Filipinos are satisfied of their job, salaries, benefits and emotionally focused on their lives. And mostly those Filipinos working in the Kingdom for a long time found out that most of our perceptions about the Islamic world have another side of the story.  It is just like saying “the mistake of one could not be a mistake of ten”.

On the other hand, the people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is very proud hosting Filipinos in their country. I remember an article in Arab News and Okaz, (English and Arabic) popular newspapers in the country cited that Filipinos are “highly skilled, hardworking and get along well with people” a contrast actually with other nationalities, who do not possess the same qualities we have Filipinos. This is simply the reason why Saudi companies like to employ Filipinos because we are known for our eagerness to do a certain job and we are honest dealing with clients and most of all – we respect time to deliver a job.

The present administration should make a concrete move to establish comprehensive bilateral labor agreements with the host country that will clearly focus on the protection of OFWs, the issue of contract substitution and Filipina Household Workers on the issue of maltreatment and abuse.

We can’t just deny that majority of OFWs loved this country and consider it as second home. You have to be here and learn these things yourself. In my 16 years as an OFW I realized that Saudi Arabia is a unique country with many facets that most of us do not understand.  It is an opaque culture, conservative in nature, fiercely proud and protective of its culture and religion.

To my fellow OFWs in KSA, maybe life will not turn out to be as what we planned. I know some of you are worried about the outcome of your plans and your life while working in the Kingdom. Learn to live with disappointment, but remember that disappointment does not have to endure. Keeps on praying and never stop praying as well as never give up, because in every road – it offers a way to opportunity.

To my host country, WE are your visitors, WE are your humble workers, WE are your servant, Your wish is our command  BUT our emotions alert us when natural human need is not being met, so please give us and treat us what we deserve.

On behalf of the Overseas Filipino Workers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; WE are so  thankful to Allah for having blessed us working in this country; to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz, the Crown Prince His Royal Highness Prince Sultan Bin Abdul Aziz, His Royal Highness Prince Naif Bin Abdul Aziz, Second Deputy Premier, and the people of Saudi Arabia, thank you for giving us (OFWs) the opportunity to be of service to the Kingdom and WE wish you a Happy Celebration on the occasion of the Kingdom’s NATIONAL DAY” (September 23).

SAUDI’s are basically good at heart

It is just like, all Germans are as bad as Adolf Hitler,  but we know they are not.

People have wrong idea about  Saudi’s  because of  what we heard and read;  but to tell you frankly SAUDI’s are basically good at heart.  – Bong Amora

***

Marilou Lorenzo Ramirez with her sponsor Khaled A. Abdul Qader, Philippine Labor Attaché David Des T. Dicang and two nurse escorts at the King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on Saturday. (AN photo by Sadeq Al-Ahmad)

ALKHOBAR: Although there have been many cases of housemaid abuse reported over the years, a vast number of household helpers across the Kingdom are treated like family members.

Such is the case of Marilou Lorenzo Ramirez who likely will lead a longer life thanks to the generosity and concern of her Saudi employer.

The 41-year-old housemaid was hired in the Philippines two years ago by Khaled A. Abdul Qader, a senior planner at Saudi Basic Industries Corp. (SABIC) in Jubail. Ramirez worked in the household for a year and won the hearts of Abdul Qader’s family with her dedication and hard work.

Five months ago, a brain hemorrhage paralyzed Ramirez. Abdul Qader first took her to Al-Mouwasat Hospital where he bore the complete costs of her treatment. Realizing the gravity of her illness, Abdul Qader requested the Ministry of Health to get her treated at a government-run hospital.

read more>>>>> 

2nd KACST Inter-Color Basketball Tournament

You are invited to the Opening Ceremony of the “2nd KACST Inter-Color Basketball Tournament” this coming December 11, 2009, Friday at 2:00PM, KACST Building 31, Basketball Court. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

2nd KACST Inter-Color Basketball Tournament

 

 
 

The Players and Members of the Committee

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

 

 

The Champion

 

2nd Runner up

1st Runner Up

Member of the Committee

Manuel “Bong” Amora (Vice Chair Coordinating Committee)
My Opening Remarks
as Master of Ceremony
prior to the program proper
re: 2nd KACST Inter-color Basketball Tournament on December 11, 2009.
 
****
WE gathered here today to witness a new beginning…
TODAY is another great opportunity to be part of another history. 12 Years had passed, 1997 to be exact the “First KACST Inter-Color Basketball Tournament” was convened. … See More

 

The said tournament was formed to compete in an Invitational Tournament at that time. Though the KACST Team landed 4th Runner up in that Invitational Game, the 1st KACST Inter-Color Basketball Tournament was an inspiring success.
All of us, not only the participants OR THE PLAYERS – not just Filipinos, all nationalities, brother Muslims and Christians – TODAY – ALL OF US gathered here to achieve each other’s GOAL, WE WILL MARK this DAY in our heart and TOGETHER WE WILL make a difference.

As what I have said “WE are gathered here today to be part of another history – of not just a success but hopefully a continuing activity from today – it means – WE will exert our best effort to have this important event to transpire every YEAR – thus the 2nd KACST Inter-Color Basketball Tournament is born again; and in a few minutes we will be witnessing the opening of this event.

Yet this event will not just end up here – the purpose of this tournament is to form a team called: “NUCLEUS” and this NUCLEUS Team from KACST as per our Chairman Nestor Alvarado is ready to compete in an Invitational Tourney held in the coming months.

This sports activity we have today and the succeeding days to come will be a positive sign on the lives of all concerned. The spirit of sportsmanship fostered and strengthened relationships necessitated the spirit of camaraderie among KACST management, the Islamic Center and employees. It means cooperation, togetherness and support for and among us, and at our work places.

Every participating team will play to win but will do it in the spirit of harmony, unity and goodwill. Sports embodies universal values, it is a celebration of the human spirit. We – the participants shall put aside any differences and come together as one.

We heartily convey OUR deep gratitude to the KACST Management for their valuable support especially to our Special Guest Mr. Abdullah Al-Swailim (Good Day Sir), To Director Engr. Alboiez,  to ISMAEL DELA PAZ of the Islamic Center – Al Shifa, Thank you brothers for your untiring support, without you, The 2nd KACST Inter-color Basketball Tournament would never have been possible. Again our heartfelt thanks to ISLAMIC Center – Al Shifa and the management of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology-KACST.

The 2nd Part of our program is an Invocation to be led by …

 

Father and Child

I submit the article below to be published without conditions nor royalties. I am dedicating a photo entry that won 2nd place in the recent Singapore Sun Festival to the Filipinos afflicted by the typhoons. May they find strength in the fathers of families as they rebuild their lives.

Christopher J. Tuason

I am an OFW who recently won second prize in a national competition of Insight Guides Photography which is one major event in Singapore Sun Festival held annually. My entry was called Father and Child which is a picture of my friend when he was consulted by his daughter over a homework she had in school. This is the first competition I joined and beyond luck, is the family value that the love of a father matters.

As a person, this is one tiny accomplishment and is nothing compared to what others have achieved in life. However, I am proud that the photograph I have taken is an image of my race and my nation on what matters to us and what we, the Filipinos, value beyond materiality.

OFW-3

"Father and Child" Photography by: Christopher J. Tuason

As a foreign worker, I have witnessed over the news and television the horrors of nature over a week when storms Ondoy and Pepeng ravaged Manila and the northern provinces. I understand and empathize with my countrymen who are forced by circumstances to start from scratch and I have heard family men interviewed over TV who submit themselves to the sorrows of nature. Many of my countrymen have lost everything and a number have lost their dearly beloved ones. To the fathers of families, know that no storm can ever defeat your strength. In times like these, your loved ones turn to you for solace and security, so do not lose this opportunity of a lifetime to reveal the father deep in you.

I am proud to be a Filipino and I am proud to see Filipino fathers conquer the most testing times in their lives.

Godspeed.

18 Migrante members arrested in Riyadh

18 Migrante members arrested in Riyadh


By Dindo Amparo, ABS-CBN Middle East News Bureau Chief | 08/16/2009 10:11 AM

RIYADH – Eighteen members of Migrante International, an alliance of migrant organizations, were arrested by Saudi Police for holding an illegal “mixed gathering” in an apartment in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Migrante in KSA

Migrante in KSA

Migrante International is an alliance of migrant organizations.

Sources said 10 men and eight women were arrested, including Eric Jocson, chairperson of the Kapatiran sa Gitnang Silangan (KGS) in Riyadh.

The group was reportedly holding a meeting in the apartment in Badea district when police conducted the raid.

Saudi Arabia forbids the gathering of men and women in private and public places except for married couples and their families.

The arrested Migrante members are facing immorality charges, while the Filipino who rents the apartment unit where the raid took place is likely to be charged with harboring “runaways” or workers with absconding cases.

Meantime, five of those arrested were found without an “iqama” which is an official identity card for the Saudi residence permit.

related post: Immorality a Serious Offense ; Pasaway ; CP’s on PDOS ; Philippine Embassy cautions OFW’s 26 Filipinos arrested for possessing fake papers (marriage, iqamas) in Dammam ; Massive Fingerprinting Begins ;

FHSW "Darna in Real Life"

Kumakatok lang Po! Distress Call

A friend of mine called me a few minutes ago asking for my help. His friend, a Filipina Household Service Worker (PGMA’s Super Maids) called him narrating her ordeal in the hands of her Egyptian employer (bakit kaya Egyptian, siguro naloko naman to ng recruiter). She was ”kono” maltreated and abused”. At sabi pa sa kanya na pag wala daw tumulong sa kanyang tumakas “tatalon daw siya sa ika-apat na palapag ng building na kanyang tinitirahan.  Tanong ko sa kaibigan ko “Bai basin imo na UYAB, pagkatapos ma rescue kunin mo sa Bahay Kalinga at ibahay habang buhay” sabi niya “he he, ikaw talaga bai, hindi oy”! para bang nahihiya, he he. 

FHSW "Darna in Real Life"

FHSW "Darna in Real Life"

Well, well, well,  im not new in this kind of distress call, some of them true and some of them not, “bakit pa kasi nauso ang cellphone may text mate tuloy”. 

Pero wala akong magagawa kundi tutulong sa ating mga kawawang “PGMA’s Super Maids” in Filipino dialect “DARNA“.   

Sabi ko sa kaibigan ko “Bai, gawin ko ang aking makakaya na makaabot sa mga kaibigan ”kono” natin  sa Embassy at POLO/OWWA, pero huwag kang umasa dahil yong problema sa Makkah/Jeddah na nakakarating na sa pinaka matayog na opisyal ng Konsulada natin doon, sa awa ng Diyos wala pa akong natatanggap na balita”.  Dagdag ko “pag nagka ganon, bai! hindi malayo mag ALA DARNA yan” huwag naman sana. &*#@ Kumakatok lang po!. Sensya na.

Katumbas na Kabayaran

Katumbas na Kabayaran

Maraming mga bagay na ginagawa natin dito sa mundo na hindi mo sukat akalain na ito’y makapagbigay sa iyo ng kasiyahan. Maliban sa kapangyarihan ng pera na siyang pangunahing instrumento na makapag bigay saya ng isang tao.

Ang bukal na pagtulong sa kapwa ay walang katumbas na kabayaran, ito’y kasiyahan sa puso na hindi natin maiihambing ng kahit anong halaga ng salapi.

Sa ating buhay may mga pagkakataon na maitanong natin sa ating sarili na bakit ko ito ginagawa na sa kabila ng ating pansariling problema mas nauuna pa ang iba?

Many hands have the ability not only to make work easier, but also helping each other overcome obstacles

Many hands have the ability not only to make work easier, but also helping each other overcome obstacles

Maraming paraan ng pagtulong, hindi ito sa pera lamang na kaparaanan basta bukal sa puso mo ang pagtulong sa kapwa at itoy kusa mong ginagawa at ito’y galing sa kaibuturan ng iyong puso, gawin mo ito dahil may katumbas na biyaya na darating galing sa itaas. Hindi man ito ngayon, baka bukas o sa susunod na mga araw. ***

Ang pangingibang bayan ng isang ama o ina ng tahanan ay hindi napaka simpleng desisyon sa kanyang buhay. Malayo sa pamilya at pangungulila sa mga mahal sa buhay ay ang katumbas nito.  Pangunahing kadahilanan ang makapagpatayo ng sariling bubong na matawag na sariling atin, utang man ito ngunit ito’y mapasaiyo rin balang araw. Pangalawa para sa kinabukasan ng mga anak.

Ngunit ang lahat ng pawis at dugo mong pinuhunan ay may katumbas rin na kabayaran at ito’y hindi dapat pagsisihan ng mga katulad nating nangingibang bayan. Bagkus ito’y asahan pagdating ng araw.

Kalakip ng “entry” na ito ay ang kuwento ng isang anak OFW, na pinamagatang “AKO“. Sana, ito ay makabigbigay ilaw sa ating lahat na ang pangingibang bayan ay may katumbas na kabayaran. Sa mga anak sana ngayon maiintindihan ninyo ang paglayo ko (namin).

The Essence of Filipino Diaspora – Buhay Abroad Talaga

HAY BUHAY ABROAD TALAGA 
 
Akala ng mga tao na nasa Pilipinas kapag nasa DUBAI  ka akala nila madami ka ng pera ng langis. Ang totoo, madami kang utang, dahil credit card lahat ang gamit mo sa pagbili mo ng mga gamit mo. Kailangan mo gumamit ng credit card Kasi naubus na ang cash pinadala sa pinas, kase pag hindi ka nagpadala, iisipin nila nakalimutan mo na sila.
 
Akala nila mayaman ka at marami kang pera kasi buwan-buwan libo-libo padala mo walang palya at kapag pumalya iisipin nila baka nagbisyo ka na o may sinusustentuhang iba. Hindi nila alam food allowance na lang ang natitira sayo at pag kinulang pa umuutang pa at lista muna sa malapit na bakala.
 
Pag may okasyon sa pinas birthday, fiesta, anniversary, pasko, new year, at iba pa, padala ka agad panghanda sarap ng kainan nila, di nila alam ikaw tiyaga sa budget meal, kapsa, noodles o de lata at itlog na nakakabutlig na ng balat, hay naku!
 
Akala ni Tatay, Nanay, Ate, Kuya, anak, mga pamangkin at iba pa namumulot ka ng pera sa Dubai kada may problema text kaagad, kumusta sa una sa bandang huli kelangan ng ng pera! Hay naku…nakaka-alergic na ang text sa roaming puro gastos…minsan padala ka pa ng load! Load mo nga utang pa Pana! Hay naku bakit ba nauso pa yan dagdag gastos lang talaga at pag di ka pa reply aawayin ka pa!
 
Akala nila masarap maging OFW at tinatawag na bagong bayani…..naku mas masarap pa yong nasa pinas na sa katas ni bagong bayani ay syang umaani! Utang sa DUBAI lalong dumarami.
 
Akala nila masarap sa DUBAI di nila alam di ka na nga makauwi kasi roundtrip tiket kina-cash pa mapadala lang at ibayad sa utang.
 
Akala nila sosyal ka na kulay ng buhok mo uso pa at naka-highlight pa, di nila alam buhok mo namumuti na sa stress at problema at pag minalas pa nalalagas pa!
 
Akala nila masarap sa DUBAI kasi pag-uwi mo mestiso ka, maputi at mamula-mula ang balat mo, di nila alam babad ka sa opisina at kulong sa bahay mo dahil no choice ka, mga kapit bahay mo di mo kaano-ano, walang paki-alaman at kung lalabas ka sunog ang balat mo, init ng araw sobra!   
 
Akala nila mayaman ka na kase may kotse ka na. Di nila alam hulugan pa ito! Ang totoo, kapag hindi ka bumili ng kotse sa dubai maglalakad ka ng milya-milya sa ilalim ng init ng araw o kaya sa winter na kasama ang asawa mo dito sa dubai .. O kaya naman tiyaga kang mag -abang ng RTA Bus or Coaster na ubod ng babaho ng mga pasahero at pagbaba mo amoy putok ka na rin, grabe!  Walang jeepney, tricycle o padyak sa dubai .. madami mga indianao, Bangladesh na driver na ubod ng baho. Pag minalas ka paskitani na taxi driver na rapist pa!
  
Akala nila masaya ka kase nagpadala ka ng picture mo sa Burj Al Arab, Desert Safari, mall of emirates, Atlantis, Al Mamzar Beach,  at iba pang attractions. Ang totoo, kailangan mo ngumiti kase minsan minsan ka lang makakapicture para mapadala mo sa mga mahal mo sa buhay.
 
Akala nila malaki na ang kinikita mo kase dirham na sweldo mo. Ang totoo, medyo malaki pagpinalit mo ng peso, pero dirham din ang gastos mo sa dubai .  Ibig sabihin ang dirham mong kinita sa presyong dirham mo din gagastusin.

Ang P15.00 na sardinas sa Pilipinas AED3.00 sa Dubai , ang isang pakete ng sigarilyo sa pilipinas P40.00, sa Dubai AED 6.50, alangan namang puro cafeteria food ang kakainin mo aba mamatay ka sa highblood o heap nyan kasi nga umaapaw na sa mantika madumi pa! Mga kadiri , kaya lang pag naubusan ka ng pera no choice you have to take the risk .
 
Akala nila buhay milyonaryo ka na kase ang ganda ng bahay at kotse mo.nag pa-lypo kay calayan at nagparetoke kay vicky belo, Ang totoo nag loan ka lang sa Mashreq ,HSBC o CITIbank  na huhulugan mo ng limang taon. Ibig sabihin, alipin ka ng bahay at kotse mo at ng luho mo at ng bansang ito !!kasi nga magloan ba naman dahil sa luho bwahahaha!
 
Madaming naghahangad na makarating sa Dubai . Lalo na mga nurses at mga medsec at eto pa pati cleaners, mahirap maging normal na manggagawa sa Pilipinas. Madalas pagod ka sa trabaho. Pag dating ng sweldo mo, kulang pa sa pagkain mo. Pero ganun din sa ibang bansa katulad lalo na kaya sa Dubai madaming outlet ng stress mo !kasi walang bawal!!! .

Hindi ibig sabihin dirham na ang sweldo mo, yayaman ka na, kailangan mo ding magbanat ng buto para mabuhay ka sa ibang bansa.
 
Isang malaking sakripisyo ang pag alis mo sa bansang pinagsilangan at malungkot iwanan ang
mga mahal mo sa buhay.Hindi pinupulot ang pera dito o pinipitas o iniigib. Hindi ako naninira ng pangarap, gusto ko lang buksan ang bintana ng katotohanan.
 
Mahirap mangibang bayan…sino ba ang may kasalanan na iwan sariling bayan?  Manilbihan sa dayuhan at malayo sa pamilya ay may kahirapan. Hangga´t may pinay DH na nangingibang bayan na simbolo ng ating kahirapan, kawawang bayan ni Juan patuloy na mapag-iiwanan. Kaya Juan iwan ka ng pera para sayo, para sa kinabukasan mo!

Caregiver, Millionaire

RAMONA ALVIR as told to CANDICE Y. CEREZO
OFW Journalism Consortium

I WILL never forget Edward Fabish; he made me rich.

I never thought things would turn out this way. Eight years ago, I was working as a stenographer at the Manila Prosecutors’ Office in City Hall.

When I left my job, my bosses –all prosecutors, my colleagues, and fellow stenographers never thought I would take the job of a caregiver. They said I was not the type.
An officemate warned me not to take the job of caring for the elderly because I might become intellectually obtuse.

They learned three years after I set foot in the United States of America that I became a millionaire.

I didn’t know I was the talk of the town until I got back in the country and someone told me people from my workplace were talking about my luck. News, indeed, travel fast.

But what happened to me, I guess, changed their prejudices on menial jobs, like caregiving.

I also never planned on being a caregiver.
****

to read more please click link:  Caregiver, Millionaire

Reward – A Sword

Reward – A Sword

Overseas Filipino workers should be aware that  in Saudi Arabia  it is not worth risking your life for just a one second  of  wrath.  Taking someone life means you pay your  own life too.  

Sword

Sword

Yesterday another Filipino was beheaded in Saudi Arabia for killing a Saudi national. OFW Jenifer Bidoya a.k.a. Venancio Ladion was executed in Jeddah.  

Saudi Arabia follows a strict interpretation of Islam under which those convicted of murder, drug trafficking, rape and armed robbery are executed in public with a sword.  

There are number of Filipinos  in the death row awaiting to be beheaded due to a mere anger that leads them to kill others.   

The Punisher Sword

The Punisher Sword

Though there are stories that could not be pointed out as murder but we should be aware that an ordinary neglect of duty could lead you to death penalty. The story of   a 19-year-old Sri Lankan girl is pleading for her life after a Saudi Arabian court sentenced her to death by beheading.  The court found Rizana Nafeek, 19, a maid who according to the authorities has no child care training was found with a dead 4 month old baby under her care.  

Another Juvenile  charge offender  Dhahian Rakan al-Sibai’i  was sentenced to death in Taif  last year for a murder he was accused of committing when he was just 15 years old.

 But many of them in Death Row were sentenced because of murder. 

 In early month of 2008 an  Indonesian housemaid has been beheaded by sword in Saudi Arabia after being convicted of killing her female employer. Yanti Sukardi was executed in the south-western province of Assir after she was found guilty of strangling her Saudi employer as she slept and stealing her jewelry. 

 It was the second execution announced in Saudi Arabia in 2008, after a year in which a record number of people were put to death. A total of 153 people were executed in 2007 in the kingdom, which applies a strict version of sharia, or Islamic law.

 A Canadian has been found guilty of murder in Saudi Arabia and sentenced to beheading. Mohamed Kohail, a 23-year-old Montrealer who has been living temporarily in Saudi Arabia, was convicted of killing an 18-year-old student in a schoolyard brawl in the city. 

 How many of them, fellow Filipinos are in Death Rows?

 Our Government are doing their best to interfere the implementation of their death sentences. However this move could not be consider as assurance that the sentence will be commuted to life in prison or freedom. The only hope is the forgiveness  from the victims family that count most.

 According to  Director General of Prisons Gen. Dr. Ali Al-Harthi  in an interview with Arab News correspondent Mahmood Ahmad says; “I would like to increase awareness; that is to say, awareness among people not to let their anger lead them into killing others. It is not worth risking your life for one moment of blind fury. We must be patient and not allow the devil to drive us to murder.”  *** BongA

Immorality a Serious Offense

A week ago I received a call at 1:30 early morning; I may call it a distress call. The person in the other line was an acquaintance a long time ago; it even took me a few minutes to remember her. 

Philippine Marriage Certificate (Specimen)

Philippine Marriage Certificate (Specimen)

She was crying asking for help. Mutawwa’in, a religious police who constitute the Committee to Promote Virtue and Prevent Vice in the Kingdom, apprehended her and two other female companions. They just stepped out from a car and about to enter a restaurant when the religious police spotted them and asked for proper documentation.  

 My friend actually was in a wrong place at a wrong time, she was in the company of unrelated person of the opposite sex.

 I advised my friend to relax and instructed her to contact her sponsor.

 I contacted Attache Tom Lawson at the Philippine Embassy who acted right away and later found out that 2 of her companions have serious problem due to the absence of working permits or iqamas. In other words her companions were undocumented OFWs. 

 My friend who has complete documents was released after her sponsor came and signed a waiver for her temporary release. Her other companion who have a photo copy only of her iqama was also freed the next day after her employer showed up at the police precinct and bailed her out. The third one who doesn’t have a residence permit remains in jail.

 However, their case that is called “immorality” will be forwarded to the court that will render the final decision.  A hearing would take place for them to defend themselves in court.   

Men and women found together with faked marriage documents or who were not married or closely related is against the Islamic law in the Kingdom; and it is “immorality or prostitution” according to its interpretation of Shari’a.

If men and women found in an embarrassing situation, women could be charged with “prostitution”. The police will then file a case to the court and if found guilty, it is punishable by flogging with a cane and a prison term of six (6) months or more and subject for deportation.  

Flogging

Flogging

Many fellow OFWs are incarcerated in different jails in the 3 Regions of the Kingdom from various offenses including immorality and illegal marriage.

 To my fellow OFWs in the Kingdom - please let us respect the law of our host country and see to it that the documents with you are legal binding documents and not a fake one, or else you may spend part of your working contract in jail with flogging as bonus.

read related post:  Pasaway ; CP’s on PDOS ; Philippine Embassy cautions OFW’s 26 Filipinos arrested for possessing fake papers (marriage, iqamas) in Dammam

Tilapia in the Desert Land

Trip to Al Kharj

For my 14 years as expats in Saudi Arabia, these past few weeks was the hottest temperature I’ve experienced; and seems to continue till the month of September or October, the month usually winter seasons starts.

But the hottest time of the year doesn’t prevent me and fellow employees to went out yesterday (Friday) for a fishing trip to Al-Kharj to relax from a week very busy hours of work, or to ease even for just a day our homesickness away from home. This blogger in particular, July 13 is my daughter’s birthday and I am not with her to celebrate her 9th years of existence.

Al Kharj "Sunrise"

Al Kharj "Sunrise"

We traveled at 4:00 AM and arrived Al Kharj city proper at 5:10 AM. We were able to take a photo of the famous city landmark, the Al Kharj Tower on way back to our accommodation. Going to our destination we were not surprised that the roads are deserted for the reason that it was Friday and due to hot season. But all of us were amazed seeing a mall (Geant) in the area, perhaps the biggest mall in the Kingdom as written in their billboard.

Al Kharj or El-Kharj is 87 kilometers from Riyadh city proper which is 52 kilometers away from our accommodation in the 3rd Industrial Area. Al Kharj is a small city but the area in general is home of agricultural production in Saudi Arabia. Leading processing plant that deal in the production of food beverages and dairy products are located in Al-Kharj. And as what I have seen, the largest farms of the notably “Dates Palm” the national fruit of Saudi Arabia is likewise found in the area. Other agricultural products as we noticed along our way; are watermelons, barley, sorghum, onions, grapes, citrus fruit; and poultry.

Al Kharj is part of Riyadh, the country’s capital and largest city that lies among oases on a dry, rocky plateau; and it is

Al Kharj Tower

Al Kharj Tower

in the center of the whole Kingdom. Unlike Jeddah and Dammam or Al Khobar there are no coastal areas found in these region. Though Saudi Arabia lacks permanent lakes and rivers, but considerable reserves of underground water have been discovered across the countries that have been used for irrigation purposes in agricultural production.

 Water is very important in Saudi Arabia, large desalinization plants was built for the supply of drinking water, as well as the intakes of power plants and oil refineries. Most of the population including expatriates Filipinos buy mineral water for daily drinking use.

 

The Wetlands

 In Saudi Arabia where rain rarely occurs but heavy one when it comes, Inland Wetlands or Marsh provides natural flood control by serving as basins for excess rainwater. These floodwaters then empty into the adjoining farmlands. Many countries experimental planting showed that fruit trees and grains could be grown successfully by means of the old water-distribution systems using drainage, dams and catchment’s basins.

The Wetlands

The Wetlands

One native Saudi national we’ve met pasturing his camels near the Marsh said that the agricultural success of production in Al-Kharj contributed much in the co-operation among neighboring farms to use drainage, irrigation, erosion control, or other special type conservation programs where water reserved is not so abundant. “The Saudi government irrigation program is very helpful to farm owners,” he explained. We agreed with him as showed by the many big culvert lined up along the road that proves Government serious on-going irrigation improvements that will benefit farm owners in the area.

 

 

The trip in search of “Tilapia”

Our visit to Al Kharj is to have a proof and see to ourselves the presence of tilapia in one of the wetlands. We heard from OFWs in the neighboring factories that “Tilapias” are abundant in many Marshland located outside Al-Kharj city proper.

 
Though I am convinced that there are tilapias and other rare species of fish in the Saudi desert particularly in the

BongA

BongA

coastal areas of Jeddah and Al Khobar but at the center of a dry and rocky plateau like Al Kharj needs to have a proof at least by my very own eyes.

 Tilapias as what I have known are commercially important species that have been cultivated in several Asian countries, including the Philippines. They have interesting behavior and attractive coloration. The larger species are important as a source of food and are cultivated extensively. Fresh and smoked tilapias are now readily available all over the world. However, the smallest known tilapia species is listed as an endangered species. According to my research “tilapia can survive in waters with oxygen conce

ntrations as low as 0.1 parts per million, and one species inhabits hot springs with water temperatures as high as 40 deg.C (104 deg. F).” It means it can survive in Saudi Arabia.

 In Philippines Tilapia are raised in artificially created fishponds, in the fish-farming industry known as aquaculture. The aquaculturists carefully manage their production to ensure and maintain quality of water used in fish farming. It maybe because some of our lakes and swamps are already polluted that eating tilapia may harm consumers health.

To see is to believe

As explained above, Wetlands or Marsh served as basins for excess rainwater use for irrigation system. The tilapia that we caught using Philippine made “Fishing Net” or “Lambat” for the said purpose proves that tilapias are abundant in the area.

Rod, Rey and Edwin

Rod, Rey and Edwin

Out of my curiosity, I made a personal survey to look where the source of water came from, which I found out coming from the adjoining farm. A canal was built for the purpose and the “huge pre-cast culvert” near to it is ready for installation. I later discovered that the marsh where the tilapias are found had a small dam or barrier use to empty the waters into the adjoining farmlands. And according to our native Saudi friend, the wall is open in time of rainy days or when there is a rain. It should be monitored and close again when the other farms have enough supply of water in their own Marsh.

Thus the timing of the water that flows during rainy days or by the use of the underground water supply influences the use of the marsh by fish and wildlife, especially for spawning and waterfowl migrations.

 While preparing to pack up, a “Mooror” or “Highway Traffic Police” stop at the nearby road and asked, “what are we

The Catch

The Catch

doing?”, we simply said fishing tilapia. He approached us and said in Arabic “Inta Akil Hada” it means, “You eat those?” We chorused and said, “Yes!” Then he replied, “Allah! You’re so great; in my country YOU provide food for Filipinos even in the desert”. We inform him that Tilapia is clean and favorite fish of Filipinos, he replied, “My friends, what I mean is – God give us oil from underneath and now God provide food for Filipinos in the desert lake.” We all smile to him and before he goes back to his mobile car he said, “be sure to go home before 12:00 noon, the sun is so angry.”

But I advised my friends to bring one sample of the catch to a Saudi acquintance working at Ministry of Health to conduct testing first, to make sure that what we caught are safe for human consumption.

 Government and local executives in our country should not ignore the beauty of wetlands. Wetlands in other countries provide many opportunities for recreational activities, such as bird watching, hunting, fishing, trapping, and hiking. Once develop a possible local tourist attraction will emerge that will contribute enhancement of its local economy.

It was indeed a fulfilling trip, in one hot summer Friday in Saudi Arabia’s Wetlands.

Next entry “The Monkeys in the Desert Land.”

OFWs - Die in Vain

More Than Just Sympathy

 

What, a man raping another man?

This is something folks back home will be surprised to hear. Yes it’s weird, but it’s true; some men do rape other men in some parts of the world.

Dito sa Saudi Arabia, kapag wala kang bigote ang tingin sa iyo ng mga Arabo ay para kang isang babae. Ngayon kung medyo mistisohin ka pa, maganda ang katawan, matambok ang puwit, at laging bagong paligo at mabango, asahan mong pagtritripan ka nila dahil sa kanilang paningin isa kang sexy star (ala Coca Nicolas or Claudia Zobel).

Si Ed ay cashier noong araw sa Al Kharj branch ng aming company. Tuwing umaga trabaho niya ang ideposito ang collections of the previous day sa down town. Dahil may kalayuan din ang aming office sa downtown kung saan naroroon ang mga banko, kinakailangan niyang bumiyahe sakay ng taxi. Isang umaga, Yemeni ang driver ng nasakyan niyang taxi pabalik sa opisina. Dahil seguro guwapo at malinis sa katawan si Ed, pinagtripan daw siya ng driver. Hindi naman siya ginalaw. Inilabas lang naman nong driver ang ari niya at nilarolaro habang nagdradrive. Takot na takot si Ed ng dumating sa opisina. Sabi namin na pasalamat siya at hindi siya dinala sa disyerto. May mga storya kasi na sa disyerto daw kadalasan dinadala ng mga rapist ang kanilang biktima. At doon na nila iiwan pagkatapos abusuhin. Mula noon hindi na bumibiyahe si Ed ng mag-isa.

Reynaldo Cortez, a welder in one of the car care shops at Sinaya in Riyadh, was not as lucky. When a Pakistani driver tried to molest him sometime in 2003, he fought back, and in the process of defending himself stabbed to death his would be rapist.

For the offense, he was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment. On appeal, the sentence was reduced to 10 years in October 2004. However in 2005, the High Court in Riyadh that gave the final verdict sentenced him to death. After that, the only way Cortez could be saved was through the grant of forgiveness from the family of his victim.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said they did their best to save Cortez. They said they negotiated with the family of the Pakistani driver and offered SR 100,000 blood money so that Cortez may be forgiven. They said they even hired the services of a Pakistani professional negotiator. But all those effort failed. All that the family of the victim wanted was to see the execution go through.

Last Wednesday, as we continue to celebrate our Independence Day as well as the Migrants’ Month, we were greeted with the sad news that the death sentence of Reynaldo Cortez was finally executed. In minutes, the world joined the Filipinos in the Kingdom in mourning. Another comrade has fallen.

Back in the Philippines, the sadness among the bereaved family and relatives of Cortez was aggravated by the news that the fallen hero’s body cannot be brought home, because it has to be buried before sunset on the day of the execution. The immediate burial was in accordance with traditions of Islam, which Cortez embraced during his stay in the Kingdom.

For not being able to bring Cortez’ body home, the Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia said in a phone patch interview that, “we can only sympathize with the family of Cortez.”

Had the family of the Pakistani driver accepted the SR 100,000 blood money offered by the DFA, Cortez would still be alive and free today. He would have flown back home to be with his family, and never to leave them anymore.

OFWs - Die in Vain

OFWs – Die in Vain

But the offer was rejected, and Cortez had to die. Instead of just paying the usual lip service and saying, “we sympathize with the family,” I think it will be more appropriate and better appreciated if DFA gives the SR 100,000, which was rejected by the family of the Pakistani driver, to the wife and six children that Reynaldo Cortez, our fallen hero, left behind.

I call on the various Overseas Filipino organizations in the Kingdom, and around the world, to officially ask the President to approve the release of funds required. After all, the amount is just a small fraction of what was spent for Dematera.

I think there is also a need to revisit the provisions of sections 24 to 26 of R.A. 8042, with the objective of assessing the effectiveness so far of the Legal Assistant for Migrants Workers Affairs’ Office as well as the status of the Legal Assistance Fund.

There is also a need to set up a Fund for blood money, so that the Post and the community need not beg around whenever the need arises. A certain percentage of the government’s savings from debt servicing, brought about by our dollar remittances, should be allocated for this purpose.

Reynaldo Cortez will not be the last to need help. In Saudi Arabia alone there are already three waiting in the death row. The time for government to act is now. ###

Migrant Workers Day-Nothing to Celebrate

Respect and Protect Human Rights of Migrants

Respect and Protect Human Rights of Migrants

June 7, 1995 the Migrant Workers and Filipinos Act of 1995 or Rep. Act 8042 was signed into law.

12 Years since it was enacted into law yet the said act has done a little or not much has been done to the Overseas Filipino Workers. The both House in Congress has never given our clamor for amendments of certain provisions that would enhance the protection and welfare of OFWs. 

For instance, Magna Carta for Migrant Workers  of 1995 provision under III: Services, Section 19 Establishment of a Migrant Workers and other Overseas Filipinos Resource Center. - Within the premises and under the administrative jurisdiction of the Philippine Embassy in countries where there are large concentrations of Filipino migrant workers, there shall be established a Migrant Workers and Other Overseas Filipinos Resource Center with the following services…

Emabssy and POLO/OWWA officials with Filcom donations for Bahay Kalinga in Riyadh

Embassy and POLO/OWWA officials with Filcom donations for Bahay Kalinga (Filipino Workers Resource Center in Riyadh)

In Saudi Arabia, there are 3 Filipino Workers Resource Center provided under this provision, each in Eastern, Western and Central Region. The said proviso did not specify male or female distressed OFWs. Our female distressed OFWs are housed in this Center and our male runaways are roaming around without valid work permit or expired iqamas and could be apprehended by the host country’s authorities anytime of the day. Others seek refuge with friends and other kindhearted fellow OFWs unmindful or maybe aware that harboring runaways could put their lives at risk too. 

The establishment and operations of the Center are joint undertaking of various Philippine government agencies overseeing the plight of our Filipino migrant workers, however, facilities and required needs of our distressed OFWs were not being fully provided. Thus help and contributions from Filipino communities, organization and kindhearted individuals are very necessary to sustain their daily needs at the shelter.

Just recently a newly organized SEC registered group of overseas Filipinos named United Filipinos Worldwide for Community Development, UFWCD-Jeddah Chapter visited our distressed OFWs at the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah. Excerpt of the report by UFWCD-Jeddah, VP Jun Macaranas and the shocking revelations inside the consulate:

As I only write what we see/saw, together with my KFSHRC-Jeddah colleagues, upon entering the big gates opened (with a Saudi Police stationed outside the gate), the quadrangle of the Consulate, estimated at 1000 sq. meter wide, LAY OUR KABAYANS, all male, with “improvised beds” to spend the whole night under an open air of the Consulate’s quadrangle improvised beds: cartons, cloth, papers at any site of the sprawling estimated 1,000 sq. meter wide cemented ground, all looking sad, without any smile, ignorantly looking at us, who by their looks, we were all made SPEECHLESS, the first time I have been to the Consulate very late at night with these bodies sprawling at any position they could find convenience at any points on the ground seeing all our kababayans, OFWs at this “nakakaluhang” sight all of them males, numbering at estimated more or less 100 pinagkakakasya ang kani-kanilang mga katawan upang maiprotekta ang sarili sa hamog, sa lamok, at sa ibang kinakaya na lang nilang magiging masamang epekto ng kung anong sakit ang dadapo sa kanilang lahat sa pagtulog sa malamig na semento ng quadrangle ng Phil Consulate Jeddah.”   To read the full report of UFWCD VP Jun Macaranas click this link UFWCD-Hawak Kamay).

OWWA - BOT

OWWA - BOT

Where are the OFWs Millions or Billions of Pesos OWWA contributions? Why on earth our Government cannot provide or rent a better place for our unfortunate kababayans as mandated by the Magna Carta for Migrant Workers of 1995?

Nasaan na ang mga representative ng mga OFWs sitting at OWWA and POEA/DOLE Board? Are you doing your job? Or just receiving salaries doing nothing, sitting at your air-conditioned room while those unfortunate OFWs out there are hungry, no right place to stay and having sleepless nights.     

This is what I always keep on saying, Overseas Filipino Workers should be truly represented by a legitimate OFWs and must be given full rights to be heard in one voice; and these could only be materialized with a broader participation in body politics so that we will be representing our OFWs with equal footing in any legislative agenda for our welfare and protection. 

June 7 – Migrant Workers Day “Nothing to Celebrate”.

Dugo Ko Alay Ko

Dugo Ko Alay Ko

During the Iraq-Iran war, Saudi Arabia required all those renewing or applying for a driver’s license to donate blood to the Ministry of Health. The blood collected was sent to Iraq where these are used in the operation of Iraqi soldiers who got hurt in the field. Years later, whenever the Ministry of Health needs blood to augment the inventory of its blood banks, it pays the donors a good amount of money.

H.E. Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Antonio Villamor

H.E. Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Antonio Villamor

Starting today, the Ministry of Health will be receiving a steady supply of blood for free. It does not even have to ask for it because the donors are giving it voluntarily.

Dugo ko Alay ko, a blood donation project spearheaded by the Philippine embassy and the Philippine overseas labor office in cooperation with the Filipino community in Riyadh and the King Faisal Specialist Hospital, was officially launched at the Philippine embassy compound this morning.

"Dugo Ko Alay Ko"

"Dugo Ko Alay Ko"

The project, which is said to be the first of its kind, is the Filipinos’ way of expressing their thanks and appreciation to the people and government of Saudi Arabia, who for more than two decades have provide home and source of income to the growing number of overseas Filipinos. Indeed what could be a better way to express gratitude than to let ones blood mix and run with those of his friends?

A big round of applause should be given to the organizing committee that managed the project from conceptualization through its eventual implementation. The launching alone this morning speaks a lot. Banners and streamers decorate the chancery both inside and outside; colorful posters are stuck on bulletin boards, some even cleanly pasted on rear windows of some cars; shirts and caps bearing the project’s logo are worn by volunteers; and almost everybody were given buttons to pin to their shirts.

FilCom "Sharing Blood, Giving Life"

FilCom " A Life, Giving Life"

What the recently concluded overseas absentee voting lack in information campaign materials, the Dugo Ko Alay ko project had so much in abundance.

The embassy gates were even left wide open through out the day, as if telling passers by to come in and join the celebration. An early celebration of success it looked like indeed. The chancery was filled with people that it was even a bit hard for the lady volunteers distributing free bottled water to squeeze into the crowd. That size of a crowd was never seen during the voting period.

The blood letting will run through out the year. The first group of donors this morning came from members of Alpha Phi Omega. Because pre-screening of would be donors is required, those who registered as donors, and passed the requirements, will be scheduled during the succeeding weekends. Where a group of donors is located in one area, the mobile blood bank facility may even go onsite instead of requiring the donors to go to the embassy.

The launching was capped by a light noon snack hosted by no less than His Excellency Ambassador Antonio Villamor and Labor Attache Rustico dela Fuente. The food provided by a catering company was good, and added more color to this all new experience of A Life Giving Lives. * May 25, 2007 By: Ka Ambo

Walang Bibitiw

Hawak Kamay

Hawak Kamay

Hawak Kamay

The song “Hawak Kamay” composed and interpreted by Yeng Constantino really touches the Filipinos heart. The song relates a story of two friends stick together, helping each other, lending each others hand against sorrows, pains and miseries in life. Hoping that this entry may find a way to connect OF/OFWs worldwide.

FWRC or Filipino Workers Resource Center, a center for our Filipina runaways distressed OFWs was established by the virtue of the 1995 Migrant Workers Act.

It’s not new to us that many of our distressed OFWs housed at FWRC like “Bahay Kalinga in Riyadh” and “Bahay Kanlungan in Jeddah” needs personal things to be used in their daily needs while staying at our Government shelter. A number of them are there for quite a long period of time waiting resolution of their case and others luckily waiting for their air tickets. OFW community organizations, kindhearted individuals and companies in the Kingdom usually offered monetary help in securing air tickets for their final freedom bound for home.

United Filipinos Worldwide for Community Development or UFWCD is a newly organized, SEC registered non-profit global overseas Filipino organization. UFWCD was primarily formed to help build our nation to move forward towards progress. We believed that Overseas Filipinos and our fellow Filipinos at home, united as ONE and armed with a vision that regardless of political and economic mayhem our country been facing there is still hope for a “BETTER PHILIPPINES“.

Last Year, UFWCD personally went to Albay to reach out the typhoon victims in the area and a small token of contribution were handed to our less fortunate brothers and sisters at Tala Leprosarium in Cavite. (Posted in my previous entry titled Transnational Philanthropy).

Last month, the just newly elected worldwide officers and the group general membership headed by our very own President Mrs. Fe Kim (Korea) initiated a project for the purpose of “lending a hand” to our fellow distressed OFWs in the Kingdom.

Thus, the “Hawak Kamay” project (name of the project was suggested by this blogger) was launched recently at the UFWCD e-group. Targeted recipients are our distressed OFWs, mostly lady-kababayans currently refuge and housed at FWRC, Bahay Kanlungan, Jeddah as well as at the FWRC, Bahay Kalinga, Riyadh and other satellite centers in Al Khobar, Eastern Region-KSA.

Walang Bibitiw

Walang Bibitiw

It all started when 2nd VP elect Ernie Perez of Riyadh, who had the attention posted at UFWCD e-group on the late distressed Domestic Helper, OFW Ms. Rosita Crisologo who died of cancer to whom this “HAWAK-KAMAY” was coined incredibly. Today, it is an active on-going project as long as there are many fellow OFWs willing to reach a hand of those in needs.

As per report by our energetic 1st VP elect Jun Macaranas based in Jeddah, aside from the previous goods intended for the “Hawak Kamay” the following were being mobilized:

- There is a 3rd group of GOODS still stored at Home Health Care Office, KFSHRC-Jeddah with a destination point to the distressed workers at Phil Consulate Jeddah.

- Estimated at 250kgs, sealed 6 boxes plus loose goods containing: used clothing, blankets, mattresses, bath soap, surgical items, used bags, footwear and 2 boxes of noodles.

- A nursing staff and a physiotherapist at HHCare-Jeddah have expressed their willingness to do a voluntary service (medical and counseling) especially to the ladies stranded at the Consulate Center, a planned schedule to be finalized.

This 3rd batch of goods may not be realized without the following kindhearted OFWs:

Mr. Arnold Francisco Taguiam & wife Lina Medical Records, Ms. Remi Ancheta Chief Medical Officer’s Office, Ms. Annie Agoncillo OB-Gyne Clinic, Cecilia “Salma” Laguna OB-Gyne Department, Eden Castillejo NeuroSciences Department, Roselda O. Agpalza Home Health Care, Leilani Purisima (PT Dept.) Home Health Care Unit, Mohammed D. Amrou, Asst Head Nurse. All employees at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, KFSHRC-Jeddah.

Mr. Philip Alinas, Pharmacy Dept., KFSHRC, Jeddah and Mr. Dennis Follosco of Saudi Oger-Ltd, Jeddah, who have conveyed their voluntary gesture of assisting UFWCD-Jeddah in due time to finally connect these goods to kababayans at Phil. Consulate, FWRC-Jeddah.

To those willing to participate in this noble cause, UFWCD “Hawak Kamay” Project, contact persons are listed below:

In Jeddah: UFWCD 1st VP Mamerto “Jun” C. Macaranas, Jr., Home Health Care (J-13), King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center-Jeddah (KFSHRCJ) at Tel/Fax: (+966-2) 667-7777 Ext 3506/3524 or Mobile Mobile: (+966) 551-348251 – dial from Outside KSA, 0551-348251 – dial within the KSA.

In Riyadh: UFWCD 2nd VP Ernie Perez at Tel. # (+96611) 2258763 or to Email Address: eljoff@yahoo.com / erniep@sabic.com or leave a comment in this entry and we will be with you very shortly.

I’m proud of you Anak!

Year of 1996, it was a month vacation in Philippines when I got married in a civil wedding. After I finished my contract in Jeddah, KSA I decided to go home for good and married my wife in Church.  

 

Without savings as an OFW for 4 years I found myself again at the doorsteps of recruitment agencies in Makati and Manila.

 

Year 1998, a precious treasure came into our life - my only daughter “Angel“.  It was the same year that I decided to work back again in KSA; Angel then was 4 months old.

 

Can’t afford to rent an apartment in early days of my married life, a good friend of my wife and her former workmate in Japan provided us place to stay in San Pedro Laguna. Trying to make both ends met when my wife got pregnant with Angel, I worked as a clerk and construction worker in various local construction companies in Manila while waiting for my employment back abroad.

 

Today, almost 9 years am still here as an OFW away from my loved ones. Those past years were very trying times; in my absence my family had been a wanderer from place to place, from Laguna to Cavite, then to Agusan Del Norte, to Mandaue and now at last in Lapu Lapu City.

 

Thanks to PAGIBIG Fund Overseas Program for OFWs and OWWA loan facilities, without the said Government institutions I may not be able to provide them a descent house – a house called home for my family.

 

By July, Angel will be 9 years old, it is just a blink of an eye and knowing from my wife that Angel is 2nd Honor in their class  (Science Technology Education Center) is enough wonderful news to an OFW father like me.

 

I may not be able to convey the exact feeling to you in person but in words “I’m proud of you Anak” from the bottom of my heart.   

A Valentine Love Story

A Valentine Love Story for OFWs in Saudi!

Happy Valentine’s to all!

They’d known  each other since their school days and had since become The best of  friends. They shared everything and anything and spent lots of time together in  and after school. But the friendship never developed into anything  deeper. Diane kept a  secret: her admiration and love for Jack. She had  her reasons for keeping it  a secret. FEAR. Fear of rejection… fear that he might not feel the  same… fear that he might not want to be her best friend anymore…  fear of losing someone that she could always find comfort in. At least if she  kept her feelings to herself she would still be able to spend time with  him… and hopefully, he would be the one to tell her how he felt towards  her.

Time passed, and soon school was over. Jack and Diane  went separate ways and found themselves a job (Jack landed a good job in Saudi Arabia). They still kept in touch though… penned letters, sent each other photographs, and mailed each other gifts. Diane longed for Jack to be back. She decided that she would tell him her feelings once he got  back. And then out of the blue…the mails from Jack stopped coming.  Diane wrote to him, but there was never a reply. Where was he? What happened? Lots of questions ran through her mind.

Two years passed and Diane was still hopeful that Jack would come back or at least send  her a note. And then her prayers were answered. One mid-August day, she received a note from Jack. It said:  ”Diane, I have a surprise for you. I’m flying over. Meet me at the airport. My flight comes in at 4pm on Saturday. I can’t wait to see you again! There’s something I need to tell you, something I’ve been keeping inside all this time. Love & Kisses, Jack”.

Diane’s fingers shook as she read the note. Her heart soared. Diane was thrilled. Love and kisses… it meant a lot for a lady who had waited so long for those  words. She was ecstatic! The day arrived, and Diane waited  anxiously for Jack. She had slipped Into her best dress, and did her best to look as pretty as she  could. She looked around  but Jack was nowhere in sight. She waited and waited, wondering what  she would say to Jack when he got there, what their meeting would be like.  Would there be love in his eyes? Would there belonging, bred from years of separation and hiding each others’ feelings? Oh, how she longed to see him! How she longed to throw her arms around Him and tell him she was a fool to ever let him go without ever telling him how she felt! And she was certain Jack felt it too. There was always a certain magic about  them when they were together.

Then a lady in a sexy, tight, blue dress approached her. She had a very concerned look  on her face, “Hi! I’m Lynn, a friend of Jack are you Diane?” she asked.  Diane just nodded her head. I’m afraid I.. I have bad news for you. Jack is not coming… he won’t be coming back  anymore,” said the lady, placing a hand on Diane’s shoulder. Diane shook her head in confusion. She felt her heart constrict. What could possibly have happened? Diane felt an overwhelming fear inside her. Her hands turned cold. Her voice shook as she asked: “Where…  where’s Jack? What happened to him? Please tell me..” Diane begged the lady.. The lady looked intently at Diane… and then she gave Diane a nudge on the shoulder and  said…

HOY! BRUHA KA! ANG GANDA GANDA KO NOH!!! AKO SI JACK (TAAS ANG KILAY)…. CHARINGGGG! ANG SAYA SAYA NOH!!!

Note: Sabi nila dalawa lang ang mangyari sa iyo pag nag SAUDI, kung dika masiraan ng ulo (dahil sa delay ng sweldo, homesick at marami pang iba)  ikaw ay maging Bading! he he!