If you’re a Filipino working in the UAE, items on your grocery list probably consist of only the things you need. But there are few who get random things from the shelves just because the items are on sale. This type of spending will not be kind to your bank account. This is what a Filipina nurse has learned so far from her three years in Dubai.
Here are some takeaways every OFW should keep:
Words by Nina Venus, contributing story of Wein Barerra Villaret
First off, the salary you will get is higher than what you were previously getting in your work in the Philippines. So, you have to save and spend your money wisely. Don’t get carried away spending money on things you don’t really need. Get your priorities right.
I like to think about my family whenever I feel homesick. Thinking of them gives me strength; they are the reason why I left in the first place.
Of course, being alone also entails vulnerability. I would also advise everyone to be cautious with who you trust. Not everyone has good intentions; you should never let anyone waste your hard-earned money.
For me, it is also important to keep your feet on the ground and always look back—that way, you’ll appreciate what you have more. It is not right to think highly of yourself just because you earn more than other people. Always think of your roots and the experiences you had to go through before you got there.
I spend most of my time in a pediatric hospital where I work 48 hours a week. When I get off my shift, I cannot help but think about my loved ones. It feels tough to miss out on special occasions. Thankfully, I have friends I can get together with during day-off. They are my family when I am away from home. Just a home-cooked meal of super-sour sinigang or adobo makes us feel like we have a taste of home.
Even so, I love doing my job. It does not matter if I am servicing a Filipino or an Emirati or other nationalities. If you have the passion and love for what you do, you’ll give your 100 percent.
If there is one thing that I would like to take home, I would have to say discipline. In Dubai, even Filipinos follow the rules as opposed to what we have back home. We have too many rules, but only a few follow them.
What gives me pride is that I can give back more to my parents now compared when I was earning less. Career wise, I am also glad that I can share my expertise as a nurse and get to explore new things as well.
