Category: OFW Interest

One of the most important requirements you need to accomplish when you want to work abroad is the passport. This serves as your travel document and that you are a citizen of a particular country.

Thankfully, passport validity is extended to 10 years, which means you will only renew your passport every decade.

Speaking of renewal, what are the requirements and process you need to do to be able to renew your passport? Is there a special lane for OFWs like you? How much money should you bring?

Keep reading to find out.

Passport Renewal Requirement

Here are the documents you need to bring when you renew your passport:

• Renewal application form. You can get the form at the DFA or you can download the form here.
• Current passport
• Two government-issued IDs
• OFW documents like Employment Contract, plane ticket, Exit Clearance, and passport with your employment visa stamp

In certain cases such as change of name for married applicants or misspelled name in your OFW documents, make sure you bring the following, whichever is applicable to you:

• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificate
• Death certificate of the deceased spouse

Take note that the DFA will only get photocopies of these documents. Still, they require that you present the original copy for checking.

What if you have an existing passport but you lost it? What documents do you need to bring to be able to get a new one?

Aside from the ones mentioned above, you also need to submit:

• Personal appearance
• Confirmed appointment with the DFA
• Notarized Affidavit of Lost with detailed explanation as to how and where you lost your passport
• Police Report, in case your passport was still valid when you lost it.

Take note that for lost passport, a 15-day clearing period is part of the renewal application process.

Where To Renew

The good news is you don’t have to set up an appointment to renew your passport. Every DFA Consular Office has Courtesy Lanes, which accommodate applicants like OFWs, minors, and senior citizens.

Thankfully, the DFA announced that the Robinson’s Galleria branch will be exclusive for OFWs. This also means that you don’t have to set up an appointment to renew your passport. You can go in anytime, as long as your requirements are complete.

Costs For Passport Renewal

Just like anything else, renewing your passport means you have to pay for certain fees.

For regular processing, which requires 15 working days before you get your passport, the fee of P950 must be paid. If you’re in a rush, then be ready to pay for P1,200 so you could get your passport within seven working days.

An additional fee of P200 or P350 must also be paid for lost and valid MRRP / MRP and e-passport, respectively.

You might also want to allocate funds for photocopy, which is P3 per page. You can save more from this by making sure that you photocopied ALL documents before going to the DFA Consular Office.

Step-By-Step Procedure And Things To Remember On How To Renew Passport

1. Prepare all documents needed for passport renewal.

Make sure that all of the documents are ready, both original and photocopies. Create a checklist so you won’t miss out on any requirements.

2. Proceed to the DFA Consular Office early.

This way, you don’t have to worry much about long lines and you can finish early as well.

Also, dress appropriately. Sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirt, and slippers are NOT allowed. You are entering a government agency, so make sure you dress properly.

3. Get a number and wait for your turn.

The guard on duty will give you a number. Hold on to that number and wait for it to be called.

Once called, submit all the documents at the service counter.

4. Pay the passport fees.

You can go for regular processing or have it expedited.

5. Get your picture and biometrics taken.

A DFA official will assist you on this.

6. Delivery or Pickup

You have the option to either have your passport delivered to your home OR pick up in the DFA Consular Office where you applied. For delivery service, LBC will handle it for an additional fee of P150.

Leaving the country for bigger salary and being away from your family are some of the most difficult things you need to do. But hey, everyone need to make sacrifices to ensure the future, right? That is why it is important that you have the right partners that will give you peace of mind even if you are thousands of miles away.

One of them is your bank.

Having a bank is crucial in your OFW life because it will serve as your “delivery man” for your hard-earned money. You also need to make sure that your remittance will reach your family.

Before you leave the country, here are some of the things you need to look into when it comes to your bank:

The Type Of Bank

Did you know that there are different types of bank in the Philippines? In fact, they are classified into:

• Universal or Commercial – This type of bank provides a variety of financial services to consumers. Aside from savings account, you can also apply for a loan, pay bills, start an investment, and even get a credit card. BDO, Metrobank, and BPI are some examples of universal or commercial bank.
• Rural or Cooperative – These are small banks that are usually located in provinces. They offer basic financial services and more personalized customer service. However, financial services are limited to savings and checking account only, which means sending money from overseas could be an issue.
• Thrift Bank – It offers higher interest rate for savings account and initial deposit is lower but unfortunately, they are limited to cash deposits only. Withdrawing via ATM may be challenging as well since branches are limited.
• Digital Bank – Online banking are becoming popular these days, which makes financial transactions easier and more convenient. You can open an account, transfer funds, and pay bills among others using your mobile app. Interest rate and fees are also competitive. Sadly, there is no physical bank and face-to-face interaction is limited.

Services Offered

It’s not enough that you have a savings account, although having one is already a good start. You also need to know what other products and services can they offer that will make your life easier.

Since you are working overseas, you need to inquire about their online facility. Is online money transfer available? Can you pay your bills online?

Aside from this, ask for other products such as loan and investment. If they have a credit card as well, then go for it. Usually, you will have a higher chance of loan approval or getting a credit card if you are already a depositor of that particular bank.

Bank Fees

Another aspect you should look into is the fees charged by banks. How much is the penalty fee in case of delayed payment? How much will be charged on your account if your account is below the minimum maintaining balance? How much is the fee for balance inquiry or if you withdrew money from ATM that is not from your bank?

These are some of the fees you need to ask before you say yes to one bank.

Accessibility And Convenience

This is important. You are working overseas and sending money back home, which means accessibility and convenience is a MUST.

The bank must be accessible to your family to make it easier for them to withdraw money. An online facility is also a must since this will make remittance easier and more convenient as well. ATMs are also crucial since this will make banking more convenient.

Security

This is important. More than anything else, you need to know that your bank of choice will safeguard your hard-earned money. At the same time, the bank should assure you that your information is protected.

Identity theft and digital hacking are common these days. Your preferred bank must give you a peace of mind that your information and money is safe and secured at all costs.

Does your preferred bank met all of these requirements?

Illegal recruitment is defined as the act of recruiting individuals, usually for a fee, for local or foreign employment. Unlike regular jobs, individuals are victimized because:

• There is no job placement effected as opposed to what was advertised by the “recruiter;” or
• There is an actual job but the worker will be placed in an oppressive or exploitative conditions such as low salary, long work hours, or performing sexual acts.

According to the Department of Justice, in 2016, there are more than 1,500 illegal recruitment cases filed in the agency. Apparently, this does not yet include cases that are either dropped by the complaining or not reported at all.

You don’t want that to happen. This is why it is imperative that you check out these signs to ensure that you are a documented OFW:

Sign No. 1: Valid Passport

Your passport must be issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs only and no one else. Personal appearance is a must and don’t forget to schedule an appointment.

Sign No. 2: Working or Employment Visa or Permit

You cannot work overseas WITHOUT a valid working or employment visa. This signifies that you are permitted to work in a foreign country. This is valid for one or two years, or sometimes longer, depending on your contract.

If the agency gives you a tourist visa despite promising you an employment abroad, then be worried. There is a chance that a different kind of job is waiting for you there.

Sign No. 3: Contract Of Employment

Employment Contract is among the documents you need to submit to be able to process your overseas employment. It contains terms and information pertaining to your employment such as working hours, benefits, and termination.

Take note that the Contract of Employment must be processed by the POEA OR verified and registered on-site by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office or POLO.

READ: Overseas Employment Contract

Sign No. 4: Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar or PDOS Certificate

This is mandatory. All workers, whether first-time or re-hires must undergo Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar prior to leaving the country. This helps you prepare for your life overseas, as well as tips, guidelines, do’s and don’ts when abroad.

Once completed, you will be given a PDOS Certificate, which you need to keep and present when applying for OEC.

Sign No. 5: Overseas Employment Certificate Or OEC

This is another important document you need to secure to legitimize your status as OFW. The OEC serves as your Exit Clearance as well as exempts you from paying travel tax and airport terminal fees.

Normally, your recruitment agency will take care of this, so you don’t have to worry about this.

READ: Overseas Employment Certificate

Sign No. 6: OWWA, PAG-IBIG, and Philhealth Membership

Being an OFW means you are NOT exempt from mandatory government services. In fact, all OFWs are mandated to still be members of various government agencies for your benefit. Unfortunately, you have to pay for this from your own pocket since this is not included in agency fees.

These government agencies offer assistance and various benefits you can maximize to your advantage. They also offer loan facilities that are more affordable compared to banks, so make sure you are a member.

Good news! OWWA offers Rebate Program, which is another reason why you should be a member.

Sign No. 7: Philhealth Medical Insurance

Aside from the membership to various government agencies, OFWs must also have an insurance prior to departure.

The insurance covers various benefits like death, accident, disablement, repatriation, and medical among others. It may seem like an additional expense, but again, you’ll never know what will happen in the future, so it is best to be prepared.

Did you comply with all of these?

What made you decide to work overseas? Surely, there are tons of reasons, but the deciding factor was money. Sadly, what you earn in the Philippines is not enough to sustain your family’s needs. You want to provide a better life and a more secure future for your family, even if it means leaving the country and looking for greener pastures.

Here’s the reality: OFW life is not easy. Even if you earn bigger and in dollars abroad, there is no guarantee that your life will get better, especially when you don’t handle your money wisely.

Aside from that, OFWs are often bombarded with various issues from both in and out of the country. This includes:

Illegal Recruitment

Working overseas can be tempting, thanks to its promise of “a better life.” This is why you are willing to do whatever it takes to make it happen.

Be careful. Despite the government’s campaign against it, illegal recruitment is still rampant these days. Worse, people don’t seem to learn and still fall for the illegal recruiter’s tactics.

Therefore, don’t easily believe the “promises” you see online. Whether or not you are direct hired or you applied through an agency, there is a process you need to follow – no shortcuts.

Little Or Lack Of Savings

Isn’t this ironic? You’re working overseas and getting a salary that is twice or thrice of what you earn in the Philippines and still, you don’t have sufficient savings that will last you for at least three months. Even if you opened a bank account, you cannot commit to saving every month.

Why does this happen? Unfortunately, as your earning increases, your lifestyle increases as well, which is not what should happen. You also constantly give in to your family’s demands and spoil them with luxuries to help cover the feeling of guilt or homelessness since you are miles away. These amounts, when used wisely, could be placed in your savings account or Emergency Fund, which should be your priority.

Friends And Relatives Who Borrow Money

One of the biggest struggles for many OFWs is that they are becoming cash cows. Since you work overseas, people assume that you are earning a lot; hence the reason why they turn to you in case they need cash. They think that life easier for you abroad; thus making you the perfect milking cow.

It’s hard to say no to them, especially to your relatives. Still, don’t give in all the time, Instead of saving more, you end up losing more for the sake of helping. Worse, they won’t even pay up the money they borrowed – the money you worked hard for.

Unpaid Debts

Who doesn’t have one? While having debts seem “normal” these days, this is STILL not an excuse. Unfortunately, many people, OFWs included, are burying in debt due to poor money management skills and lifestyle.

“I can’t help it,” you must say. “I need money for my placement fee.” That’s understandable.

Still, do your best to pay your financial debts since that is your responsibility. Adjust your lifestyle. Instead of buying new rubber shoes for your son even if you just bought a new pair last month, focus more on savings, investment, and minimizing debt.

Don’t worry. It’s not too late to address these issues if you start now. You can also avoid this if you put your eyes on the prize and focus on the real reason why you are working overseas: for your family.

One of the things you need to prepare before you leave the country is having a bank account. This is crucial since it will make sending money easier and more convenient for you and your family.

That being said, you go to a bank and tell them that you want to open a bank account. Then, you will be asked if you prefer savings or checking account. In your case, savings account is more recommended since it is easier for you to manage.

It doesn’t end there. You also have to choose if you prefer passbook, ATM card, or both. You might even be offered a Time Deposit account for higher interest rate.

The point is for ordinary Filipinos, these different bank accounts may be confusing. You also need to understand the differences to make sure that you will enjoy what each account could offer.

That being said, here are the different types of bank accounts offered in the Philippines:

Savings Account

This is, perhaps, the most popular type of bank account today. It is easy, convenient, and allows you to keep your money for whatever purpose.

That’s not all. Savings account is usually the first type of bank account Filipinos open because of minimal documentary requirements, lower interest rate, and low – or even no – maintaining balance. Banks also offer additional perks for OFW accounts such as zero maintaining balance and transforming the account as a remittance account.

Here’s the thing with savings account: the interest rate is lower compared to other bank products, which is usually pegged at less than one percent.

Banks offer either ATM or passbook or both every time you open a savings account. The good thing about ATM is that you have quick access to your funds anytime, anywhere. It may also be used as a debit card instead of using a credit card. The maintaining balance is low as well, so you don’t have to worry about deductions.

On the other hand, passbook accounts are more difficult to maintain since they have higher maintaining balance. Online banking may also be limited to viewing and receiving money online since banks need your passbook to update the account. Nonetheless, this is a good option for your Emergency Fund since withdrawing money means giving your passbook as well.

Checking Account

Many Filipinos opt not to get a checking account since it is more expensive to maintain. Plus, check payments are less preferred method of payment in most transactions, so getting one may not be recommended.

Still, you may be required to get one IF you plan to apply for a loan of any type and the lender requires post-dated checks as payments. This could come in handy for payment of other expenses like utility bills and your child’s tuition fee.

Evaluate your needs first to check if you can forego getting a checking account.

Foreign Currency Account

Foreign currency deposit account is a type of savings account that allows you to save money in different currency aside from Philippine Peso. In fact, you could open an account in US Dollar, Japanese Yen, Hong Kong Dollar, or Euro, whichever is more applicable to you. Make sure you ask your bank of choice on what currency they accept.

The good thing about having FCDA is the added security in remitting and receiving money to and from abroad.

Check out this post on why you need to have foreign currency account.

Time Deposit Account

If you have extra funds and you still don’t know where to put it without the risk of losing it, then time deposit account could be a good option for you.

Time deposit account means the bank will keep your money for one month to seven years, depending on your choice. During that time, your money earns interest, which is higher than what savings account can give.

You can put minimal amount on this but if you want to earn higher interest, then higher amount is needed.

Which among these accounts do you have?

Here’s the harsh truth about life: what you’re earning overseas is and will never be enough. You have to consider how many mouths to feed, bills and other expenses to be paid, and even extended relatives. Despite earning in dollars, you might notice that what you have every end of the month isn’t sufficient.

This is why in Balikbayad, we constantly remind and encourage everyone to consider putting up their own business, no matter how small it is. In case capital is your issue, we’re here to help, too.

If you prefer to start small or something your family back home could start for additional income, then you might want to try reloading business.

Why become a cellphone load retailer?

• You can start with minimal capital, or at least P2,000.
• Anyone can do it, which means your spouse or even kids can manage this type of business even while they are at home.
• With more than 100 million prepaid subscribers, becoming a cellphone load retailer is a good opportunity to earn additional income.

Given these reasons, here are tips on how to start your cellphone loading business:

Tip No. 1: Establish the details.

Running an e-loading business is easy, but this doesn’t mean you don’t pay attention to it. You need to know the specifics – where you plan to operate, whether or not your preferred location has good foot traffic, and how much you plan to invest among others. You might want to put it in the place where you have an existing business, like sari-sari store.

The point is establish the basics first before you fully commit to it.

Tip No. 2: Have a separate mobile phone for your loading business.

You don’t need to buy the latest smartphone in the market. Any phone will do, as long as you can still text or call. Having a separate phone is recommended so that you could separate your business from personal.

If you insist on using just one phone, then make sure you go for units with dual-sim. This way, you can still differentiate which one is e-loading and which sim is for personal use.

Tip No. 3: Choose between exclusive or all-in.

Being an e-loader means you need to choose between the two: become an exclusive reseller for ONE company or become a third-party distributor.

If you are an exclusive reseller, then there is a higher profit as much 13 percent. Unfortunately, you’re tired to one telecoms company, so you cannot sell any load from its competitor.

On the other hand, becoming a third-party distributor means you can provide load to all networks. This expands your market since you could cater to all prepaid users. Aside from load, you may also sell other mobile products like subscriptions and on-demand services.

The downside is that profit may not be as big compared to being an exclusive reseller. You also have to be careful in choosing a partner since scamming is still rampant these days.

Tip No. 4: Apply.

Now that you established what type of load retailer are you, it’s time to apply to the appropriate merchant.

If you plan to become an exclusive load retailer, then you can easily go to their business centers to apply. Online application is also applicable for convenience. You will also be required to purchase a separate sim card – hence, the separate mobile phone – that you will use for this business.

If you want to carry all networks, then visit the third-party distributor of your choice. Most distributors have online application, so take advantage of that as well.

Take note of the details such as how much you’ll earn per transaction, do’s and don’ts, and how to’s so that business will be smooth sailing.

Tip No. 5: Promote your business.

Social media posting may not be applicable on this one, which is why you need to think of ways to let people know that your loading business exists.

Posting a signage outside your home is the easiest and most effective way to market your business. Being friends and letting your neighbors know that you have a reloading business is also recommended since nothing beats word of mouth.

What do you think? Are you open to running your own reloading business?

Sometime in February 2019, the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group, together with SEC’s Enforcement and Investigation Division, raided the offices of ROSES4U Inc., a company that target foreigners into investing in an online investment scheme. In fact, they lure people into investing by showing a fake bank account.

On that same month, SEC issued a cease-and-desist notice to Kapa-Community Ministry International (KAPA). This organization is a religious group that solicits investments from its members in exchange of a “guaranteed return.” Although KAPA is registered as an independent religious organization, it cannot solicit funds for investment.

These are just examples of the many investment scams happening today. Despite the warnings, there are still many who fall for this. In fact, there are companies who target OFWs into get-rich-quick scams because let’s face it, you surely want to grow your money fast.

You can avoid that from happening to you by remembering these tips:

Always watch out for SEC advisories. 

The good news is the government is taking steps to ensure that the public is protected against investment scams. It may be a tedious task for some, but it won’t hurt if you check SEC advisories every now and then, say once a week.

The agency releases reports that inform public about dubious companies, which you need to watch out for. Take some time to read and make a list out of it as your guide to prevent you from becoming a victim of an investment scam.

There’s no such thing as “easy, quick, and risk-free” investment. 

All investments, regardless of their nature comes with a risk. The market is volatile and dependent on what is happening in the society; hence the changes in interest rate or policies. As a result, you will see the return of your investments after some time and NEVER the following week.

If someone approaches you and promises you 30 percent return next month, then walk away. No legitimate investment company offers that kind of return. It’s not worth your time and hard-earned money.

Remember, if it’s too good to be true, then it’s not true at all.

Check with SEC if the company is authorized to ask investments from people. 

It’s easy to say that a company is registered with the SEC. Anyone can easily put up a corporation as long as all the requirements are complied with. On the other hand, not all companies are authorized to solicit or offer investment schemes.

What you can do is to go to the SEC website and type the name of the company in the search bar. If you see “cease and desist order” on the search page, then forget about that and turn to banks instead for investment.

Another way to check the legitimacy of a company to issue investments is by visiting the PIFA website. A legitimate investment company must be registered under the Philippine Investment Funds Association to offer investment options. If you can’t see the name of the company on the website, then don’t push through with the investment.

If everyone is doing it, then it doesn’t mean that it is “legit.” 

Don’t be impressed by phrases saying “a lot of people joined us” or “your friends joined us already.” These are merely sales pitches to lure you to join. The truth is even if a lot of people are getting into a particular investment scheme, it doesn’t automatically follow that it is a legitimate one.

Be skeptical and don’t be easily fooled.

They’re always in a hurry. 

Sadly, the “hurry while supplies last” does not apply to investments. Some investment options like Retail Treasury Bonds are time sensitive but generally, there is no deadline when it comes to investment. In fact, you can invest anytime you want, preferably while you’re in the Philippines.

If someone constantly nags you to “invest now before you leave out of the country,” then don’t mind them. Investing your money should be at your own pace.

Take these tips in mind when you’re ready to invest your money. You worked hard for that money and you need to make sure that you will place it in something that matters.

Sometime last year, the government released the iDOLE OFW card, which OFWs can use to avail of various government benefits. Unfortunately, there were tons of issues such as confusing guidelines and the photo of President Duterte in the card.

The government decided to change that and issue a new OFW card – the OFW e-Card.

What is the OFW e-Card? 

The OFW e-Card is the new card issued to OFWs. It serves as a proof of membership to OWWA as well as an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) for legitimate OFWs.

To avail of OWWA benefits, all you need to do is to present the card at OWWA Regional Welfare Office, POEA, Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO). Department of Foreign Affairs, Bureau of Immigration, and the Philippine Embassy in your respective employment country among others.

Why should you get an OFW e-Card? 

There are several benefits that come with it. This includes:

• Serves as a valid government issued ID
• Also serves as an OEC or exit clearance, thereby proving the legitimacy of your status as an Overseas Filipino Worker
• Makes OWWA programs and services easier to access for OFWs
• Entitles you to waived airport fees like terminal fees and travel tax
• Comes with security features like QR code and unique OFW membership number for proper verification. This also prevents data breach as well.

The best part is unlike the iDOLE OFW Card, the e-Card application is easy since physical documents are no longer required. There is also now an OWWA mobile app so you can easily keep track of your information.

How to Apply for OFW e-Card: 

You need to meet the following requirements:

• Active OWWA membership of at least 90 days from the time of card application
• Passport with at least six months validity
• Valid OEC or exemption number

In other words, a Balik Manggagawa may apply for OFW e-Card. Per POEA, a Balik-Manggagawa is an OFW who has completed or is completing his or her employment contract and has an intention to return to the same employer, regardless of the job site.

If you meet the requirements above, here’s how you can get an OFW e-Card:

1. Visit the OFW e-Card application form site from the OWWA website. You can also click this link to load the online application form.
2. Fill out the online application form.
3. Choose the OWWA Regional Office where you plan to pick up your card.
4. Check the box that says “I accept the Data Privacy Policy.”
5. Click Submit Application button.
6. At this point, a Confirmation page will appear. Make sure you take a screenshot or list the tracking number. The tracking number will be used to check the status of the card. Don’t forget to input your email address or Facebook profile name for the status of your card.
7. Use this link (Delivery Status page) to track the status of your card.
8. Once the card is ready for pickup, claim your e-Card at the place you designated.

Take note that OFW e-Card is FREE of charge. You can also apply for one even while you’re abroad. Apparently, you can only claim this in the Philippines, which means you can get this while on vacation or assign someone to get it for you.

If you want someone to claim the card on your behalf, make sure your representative will submit original Authorization Letter with your signature and a photocopy of your passport.

For further concerns, you may contact OWWA through the following numbers:

• Landline: (02) 804-0639 / 833-0244 / 551-3647
• Globe: (0977) 396-2809 / (0977) 3962-819 / (0977) 396-2818 / (0977) 396-2804
• Smart: (0918) 605-3017 / (0918) 605-3026 / (0918) 605-3037 / (0918) 6053-046

There are also OWWA and POEA Assistance Desks in the airport to help you address e-Card issues.

What are you waiting for? Get your OFW e-Card ID now.

What does it take to succeed in your job? The truth is A LOT.

When you apply for a job, recruitment agencies only see what you want them to see – your educational background, employment history, certifications and trainings, and references among others. You need to look good on paper so you could proceed to the next step of job employment.

Apparently, your resume is just a portion of who you are and does not define how you are in the workplace. Trainings and technical skills are helpful and considered by employers, but there are certain qualities you need to have or develop in order to keep ahead of the curve and succeed.

These non-negotiable qualities are:

Ability to Work in a Diverse Environment

Working overseas means working with people who came from different countries like you. This also means you will be dealing with people who grew up in a different culture. Can you handle that?

One of the important qualities employer looks for is one’s ability to work in a diverse environment. Instead of doing things your way, you must be willing to adjust, cooperate, collaborate, and work well with a team, regardless of where you all came from. If you could do that and get along with others, then you could survive and go a long way.

Adaptability

Let’s say you got accepted as a caregiver. It turns out that one of your patients is looking for English tutor for her granddaughter. Since you know the language well, you decided to sign up for it, for additional pay, of course. Who knows, this could pave into something bigger.

Working overseas means you need to be able to adapt to whatever situation is thrown at you, good or bad. You must be willing to make adjustments and accept new roles – as long as you are compensated accordingly. For you, it’s about additional income but for your employer, they could see something positive in you.

Speaking of English, you should also have this next skill.

Good Communication Skills

English is considered as a universal language for a reason – majority of the people can at least understand it. This is why Filipinos often have the edge because speaking and learning English is part of our culture. This will make it easier to communicate with people in the workplace and avoid work barriers like confusion or misunderstanding.

Still, don’t limit yourself to learning English. You should also make an effort to learn the language of the country where you’re working. You can check YouTube videos for language tutorials or apply in TESDA for specific language course. Don’t worry. It’s free.

Visionary 

OFW life is not forever. This is why you are advised to make the most out of your stay while you still can. While you are there, you need to have a vision.

What does this mean?

You need to have an ambition not just for yourself but also for your family. You need to envision financial stability and security, and use it as a motivation to work harder and persevere more. Keep in mind that even if employers are not saying positive things out loud, they do notice your perseverance and effort – and having a vision in life could help you.

Effective Time Management

Do you want someone working for you who is always late or cannot meet deadlines? Definitely not.

To succeed in the workplace, you need to have proper and effective time management skills. There is no room for tardiness or procrastination, especially if you want your employers to notice you.

Prioritize your time and avoid making side jobs that could affect your performance in your main job.

Do you possess these qualities?