Overseas Filipino Research Articles

Notes on Contributors

Other| January 01 2022 Notes on Contributors Journal of American Ethnic History (2022) 41 (2): 111–112. https://doi.org/10.5406/19364695.41.2.13 Cite Icon Cite Share Icon Share Twitter Permissions Search Site Citation Notes on Contributors. Journal of American Ethnic History 1 January 2022; 41 (2): 111–112. doi: https://doi.org/10.5406/19364695.41.2.13 Download citation file: Zotero Reference Manager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex toolbar search Search Dropdown Menu toolbar search search input Search input auto suggest filter your search All Scholarly Publishing CollectiveUniversity of Illinois PressJournal of American Ethnic History Search Advanced Search Erik Bernardino is Assistant Professor of History at Bates College..Adrian De Leon is a historian, poet, and multimedia educator at the University of Southern California, where he is Assistant Professor of American Studies and Ethnicity. His research explores the archival and visual histories of migrant labor, capitalism, indigeneity, and settler colonialism in the Philippines and global Filipino diasporas.Amanda C. Demmer is Assistant Professor of History at Virginia Tech, where she researches and teaches at the intersection of US foreign relations, war and society, and migration studies. She is the author of After Saigon's Fall: Refugees and US–Vietnamese Relations, 1975–2000 (Cambridge University Press, 2021).Deirdre Dougherty is Assistant Professor of Educational Studies at Knox College. She is the author, with Paul Trachtenberg, Allison Roda, and Ryan Coughlan, of Making Integration Work: Lessons from Morris (Teachers College Press, 2020). Her work explores the relationships among racial capitalism, anti-blackness, and schooling.... You do not currently have access to this content.

Behind the Masks of Bravery: A Phenomenological Study on the Challenges and Adjustments of Filipino Frontliners in Qatar

The increasing cases of CoronaVirus (COVID-19) around the world have hugely affected the lives of families, workers, children, the government, and the community. This research aimed to understand the lived experiences of Filipino frontliners as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) in Qatar and how they deal with stress caused by their jobs as their coping mechanisms. This study utilized qualitative phenomenological research to deal with the common challenges dealt by frontliners. The data were gathered through a semi-structured interview with Filipino front-line workers who have been working in Qatar. The result shows that there were three key themes emerged in this research which are Work Constraints, Work Impact, and Coping Strategies. Frontliners experienced work constraints in their work field such as physical discomfort, emotional distress, and mental restraints. The work constraints mentioned have affected the front-line workers in their performance efficiency, individual being, and productivity enhancement. As a result, each frontliners developed their own coping strategies grouped as control management, adjustment measures, and prevention strategies. Frontliners bring risks to their own lives since they have to sacrifice a lot of their time for themselves, for their family, and for other people. Although front liners deal with a lot of stress and pressure in their work field, it is indeed rewarding to the Filipino front liners to be able to help the community. Being a frontliner is a tough however heroic job, thus maintaining a healthy body through regular exercise, resting, and eating healthy meals are crucial. Frontline employees also need the support and comfort they require from their loved ones by knowing that their family and friends are present for them. They will also be able to perform at their best if their responsibilities are assigned fairly, work hours are followed, and proper rests are provided.

Where do overseas Filipinos intend to retire? The case of Filipinos in Chugoku region, Japan

Migrants nearing retirement age face issues and challenges distinct from those of migrants in their working age. Yet, their well-being has not been fully addressed because of lack of data. Drawing from the results of a survey of Filipinos residing in the Chugoku region in Western Japan ( n = 481), this study contributes to the literature on the aging-migration nexus by exploring migrants’ anxiety toward retirement and intended country of retirement. The results have crucial implications not only on migrants’ plans for retirement but also on the provision of social protection in both the host and the origin countries.

Pinoy Ako Scale: Development and Initial Validation of a Scale on the Global Filipino Immigrant Experience

This study examines the Pinoy Ako (I am Filipino) Scale to investigate the experience of the global Filipino immigrant. From surveying 352 Filipinos in 22 countries, findings point to a 3-factor structure for 21 scale items: (1) rootedness in family and Philippine culture, (2) experiencing the sacrifices of migrating, and (3) thriving in a host culture. Filipino immigrants with 10 or fewer years in residency reported significantly higher levels of rootedness to family and Philippine culture; those with 20 or more years in residency reported significantly higher levels of thriving in the host country. All participants similarly experienced the sacrifices of migrating.

Stories of Diaspora of Overseas Filipino Workers in Singapore: A Management Perspective

Stories of Diaspora of Overseas Filipino Workers in Singapore: A Management Perspective

Phonography Culture

Phonography Culture

Overseas Filipino workers and the COVID-19 pandemic: Exploring the emotional labor of persistence

Without a doubt, the precarity of an overseas Filipino worker's (OFW) life is augmented by the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily through the economic and political consequences that such public health crises engender. However, while primarily seen in terms of their economic and political dimensions, these consequences also affectively disrupt the life of OFWs. In this paper, I trace the various conflicting ways that OFWs, who were terminated from their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic, have dealt with their emotions while still in their respective host countries, and, trying to find a way to return home. Drawing from Arlie Hochschild (1983) concept of emotional labor, I argue that the OFWs perform what I am provisionally calling the emotional labor of persistence. This type of emotion work, though tied to, and enabled by the precarious conditions in which the respondents live, is a resistive and agential kind of emotional labor. It allows the OFWs to endure precarity, and in the process, find ways to elude, confront, or question the modes of thinking and feeling in which they are constantly circumscribed by the demands of their overseas work and overall precarious situation.

A Study on the Level of Awareness of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWS) At Tripoli, Libya on the Myths & Facts on Corona Virus (Covid – 19): Basis for Program Planning

The study aimed to determine the level of awareness of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) of Tripoli, Libya on the myths & facts on corona virus (COVID – 19). Specifically, this study answered the following questions:1) What are the Demographic Profile of the respondents in terms of Gender, Educational Background and Occupational Background?? 2) What are the Overseas Filipino Workers level of awareness on the myths & facts on corona virus (COVID-19)? 3) Based on the results of the study, what measures can be formulated to increase the level of awareness of the Overseas Filipino Workers on corona virus (COVID-19)? The findings that the researcher was able to extract from the study were: 1) the frequency and percentage of the Overseas Filipino Workers demographic profile in terms of Gender, shows that female are mostly dominant which is 29 or 66.25% while male is 17 or 36.91%. In terms of Educational Background, results reveals that mostly are on the College level which accounts to 29 or 63.04%, Bachelor degree holder, 11 or 23.91%, Masters 3 or 6.52%, Doctorate 1 or 2.2% and College Undergraduate 2 or 4.3%. Occupational Background of the respondents reveals that Predominantly, 26 or 56.5% belongs to the Health sector, Oil & Gas 7 or 15.2%, Education, 1 or 2.2%, Others like those of the Embassies 8 or 17.4%, Not applicable 4 or 8.7%. There was a “Not Applicable” response as there were participants on the symposium who are dependents of the Overseas Filipino Workers and are not currently employed in Tripoli, Libya. 2) Detailed analysis of Table 3 reflecting the results of the frequency and percentage of the Overseas Filipino Workers level of awareness on the Facts and Myths of COVID-19 reveals that mostly 91.31% are aware of the facts on COVID-19, 5.70% unaware and 2.98% undecided. Predominantly, 53.07% of the Overseas Filipino Workers are aware on Myths on COVID-19 as reflected on the “NO” responses on questions on MYTHS, however the 40.75% results on the “YES” responses showed only a difference of 12.32% which is quite alarming and 2.98% are undecided.3) The measures that could be formulated to increase the level of awareness of the Overseas Filipino Workers are to conduct information dissemination campaign through symposiums, research forums and the use of Information Education Campaign (IEC) materials. Based on these findings, the researcher was able to conclude that the Overseas Filipino Workers in Tripoli, Libya are aware of both the FACTS & MYTHS on COVID-19, however, it is worthwhile to note that there is small difference in the figures reflected on the MYTHS aspect, thus there is still a need to correct these misconceptions so as to contribute on measures to end this pandemic.

"Die-Hard Supporters"

The success of the maverick politician Rodrigo Duterte in the 2016 election is cited as a result of the weaponization of social media—whereby professional, tech-savvy strategists mobilized public opinion through a networked system of disinformation. Yet, there is evidence of grassroots campaign support that emerged via online platforms. Those who have mobilized include Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who have used Facebook groups to rally in support of Duterte. This research looks at the activities of two OFW Facebook groups to understand precisely how and why they organized for Duterte. Employing a dualstage thematic analysis on posts and comments by group members between March 28 – May 9, 2016, three key findings emerged. First, motivations for supporting Duterte varied greatly among users and are far more complex than Duterte’s mandate to crack-down on corruption, crime, and drugs. Second, group behavior deviates from top-heavy explanations of online campaign mobilization, as these groups operated autonomously from Duterte’s official campaign. Finally, these groups were not amorphous and had, as the most active members and organizers, certain intermediaries. These grassroots intermediaries sought to amplify support for Duterte by organizing events, using diversionary tactics, and helping to propagate fake news. These findings suggest that while these groups were operating independently, they were not devoid of influence from Duterte’s official social media campaign.

Factors Influencing Marketability of OFWs

Factors Influencing Marketability of OFWs

Knowledge on and Membership in PhilHealth: The Case of Overseas Filipino Workers

ABSTRACT This paper describes the level of knowledge on and membership in PhilHealth (Philippine Health Insurance Corporation) among Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). It analytically examines the sociodemographic predictors of knowledge on and membership in PhilHealth. Results reveal that 76% of the respondents involved in the study are PhilHealth members. Generally, respondents’ level of knowledge about the insurance is moderate. Results of regression analysis reveal that sex/gender (BETA = −.319) and income (BETA = .352) predict membership in PhilHealth. Meanwhile, income (BETA = .295) and marital status (BETA = −.164) predict the level of knowledge on PhilHealth. The results indicate that those with income above PhP40,000 (approximately USD785) are the ones knowledgeable about PhilHealth. Moreover, OFWs with partners are more knowledgeable about the insurance compared to those who are not married or without partners. The results offer several insights regarding PhilHealth membership among OFWs. First, OFWs with higher income tend to become members of PhilHealth. Second, women are less likely to become members, as many of them are working in the service sectors and are generally earning lower income than their male counterparts. This result indicates that women OFWs should be encouraged to become PhilHealth members, especially if their left-behind partners or husbands are not members. This is to ensure that left-behind family members will be able to access health services.

A Journey Back Home: Lived Experience of the Returning Overseas Filipinos in a 14-Day Quarantine Facility

In outbreak prevention and infection control amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippine government mandated the returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to undergo a 14-day quarantine and isolation upon arrival in the country. In this light, this study utilized Heideggerian existential phenomenology to describe the experiences of OFWs in the quarantine facilities and the meanings they associated with their 14-day quarantine experience. Six purposively selected OFW-informants participated in the study. From the findings, five main themes emerged: (1) concerns and challenges of uncertainties, (2) emotional struggles, (3) process of coping, (4) meanings associated with their quarantine experience, and (5) their trusts and hopes. This study recommends a strengthened psycho-social support program to manage distress among OFWs and provide information and services needed to mount an appropriate response to assisting OFWs in this pandemic.

Lived experiences of Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) nurses working in COVID-19 intensive care units.

Limited studies focus on the effects of the pandemic on the nurses' overall risks and wellbeing. At present, no single study has been published on Filipino nurses' experiences outside the country during the COVID-19 pandemic. This descriptive phenomenological study explored the Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) nurses' experiences working in COVID-19 intensive care units. The study was conducted in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where there is a high number of COVID-19 cases. This study utilized a qualitative Husserlian phenomenological approach to describe and explore the lived experiences of the OFW nurses' caring for COVID-19 critically ill patients. The research key interview informants were eight ICU nurses who cared for COVID-19 patients in Dubai hospitals. Data saturation was reached. Data collection was done in 2020, and Collaizi's method of data analysis was utilized. A total of 135 significant statements were extracted from the interview transcripts. There were 36 formulated meanings generated, and four themes emerged from this study. The first theme is Challenges During the Pandemic with the following subthemes: Away from Home, Caring for the COVID-19 Patients, and Fear of the Unknown. The second theme is Patient Care during COVID-19 with the following subthemes: COVID-19 ICU Patient Care and The Nursing Profession. Third, Adapting to Change with the subthemes: Living the New Normal and Protecting One's Self from COVID-19. Lastly, Resilience Amidst the Pandemic with the following subthemes: Being with Others and Seeing Oneself. Despite the existing challenges like cultural differences and homesickness faced by these OFW nurses and the new challenges they are faced with the pandemic today, they were still able to continue living and do what is expected of them. From the hassle of wearing the PPEs, shortage of PPE, and being transferred from one unit in the hospital to another, the OFW nurses were able to adapt to these changes. The nurses already got used to the routine, but the fear of getting infected by the virus is still there.

Anxious, Apart, and Attentive: A Qualitative Case Study of Overseas Filipino Workers’ Families in the time of COVID-19

Cognizant of the nature and type of family as factors that affect the experience and coping of its members, this study sought to examine the impact of the pandemic on overseas Filipino workers’ (OFW) families using a qualitative instrumental case study of four OFW families. Three themes emerged from the analysis: (1) worry over the conditions of the distant family members, (2) disruptions in plans and family relationships, and (3) monitoring and caring from a distance. From these findings, it could be reflected that despite the negative effects of the pandemic, OFW families can recreate patterns over time to retain their familial relations and routines and protect members from coronavirus and its consequences.

Ethics of Recognition: The Struggles of Ilongga Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)

This descriptive-qualitative-critical research aimed to appropriate Axel Honneth’s theory in the Struggles for Recognition of the Ilongga Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to understand the plight of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) particularly, the Filipina domestic helpers. This work was premised on the idea to help uplift their dignity by promoting their rights as empowered women in the Philippine society. The researcher argued that several Filipina domestic helpers had been victims of various forms of injustices such as sexual harassment, discrimination, and exploitation. Thus, the most that they can do is to struggle to recognize their rights and dignity as full-pledged members of the Philippine society. A phenomenological approach was employed, content analysis, researcher interview-guide-questionnaire, one-on-one personal interview through phone calls, messenger chats, and Focused Group Discussion (FGD) with OFWs were utilized. Three themes had emerged: Physical and psychological abuse, sexual harassment, and insecurity of financial stability. This paper recommended that the concerned government agencies provide concrete plans for Filipina OFWs in consonance with Republic Act No. 10022. These OFWs should be afforded training on livelihood skills and capital incentives and should be equipped with financial literacy through training and seminars to manage their hard-earned income properly.

BEYOND MOTHERS LIGHT: THE ADAPTATION STORY OF OFW MILLENNIAL MOTHERS IN QATAR

Background: As a Filipino family expatriates to Qatar, a peninsula Arab country, the possibility of experiencing various struggles emotionally, familial, culturally, and technologically is high, especially to Filipino Millennial Mother workers. This study focuses on the adapting mechanism of the Filipino Millennial mother workers in Qatar concerning their struggles as Millennial Mother Workers in their new setting. Method: A phenomenological research design was used in this qualitative research paper to fully understand the lived experiences of the Filipino Millennial Mother Workers in Qatar, certainly focusing on what way do millennial mothers adapt to Qatar's Environment as Overseas Filipino Workers? The data were gathered through a twenty-five semi-structured interview and were analyzed using an inductive approach in the theme development. Findings: Findings have shown the everyday difficulties of Filipino Millennial Mother Workers in their decision making concerning their adjustments with the different struggles they are experiencing in Qatar. Conclusion: Filipino millennial mother workers' decision-making process is crucial, especially in their new setting, resulting in changes in their parenting strategy and adjustments. Recommendation: To fill in the gap of this study, this paper suggests the future researchers have standardized criteria for the mothers' offspring, such as the number, age, and gender, to narrow down the variables present.

From Job Vulnerability to Job Recovery: The Phenomenological Study on Overseas Filipino Workers Job Cessation in the State of Qatar

From Job Vulnerability to Job Recovery: The Phenomenological Study on Overseas Filipino Workers Job Cessation in the State of Qatar

Political Remittances on the Rise During Pandemic? Evidence From Survey Data on Overseas Filipino Workers

Political Remittances on the Rise During Pandemic? Evidence From Survey Data on Overseas Filipino Workers

Bilateral labor agreements and the migration of Filipinos: An instrumental variable approach

Abstract Bilateral labor agreements (BLAs) are preferred policy models for regulating migration by many governments around the world. The Philippines has been a leader in both agreement conclusion and exporting labor. A recent Congressional evocation is pushing bureaucrats and academics alike to investigate this policy strategy for outcomes and effectiveness. The following analysis answers the question “Do BLAs affect the migration outflows of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)?” using a plausibly exogenous variation to isolate a causal effect. I test for effects of BLAs using two instrumental variables (IVs), such as Bilateral Investment Treaties (BITs) and Formal Alliances, and an original dataset of land-based and sea-based Filipino BLAs and migrant stock in 213 unique areas from 1960 to 2018. I do not find any empirical evidence that these treaties drive migration. However, BLAs have statistically significant effects on gross domestic product (GDP) per capita and exports, suggesting other important channels through which these agreements affect economic outcomes. These null results are critically important for policymakers and diplomats because the resources spent on negotiation are wasted if the primary goal is to increase migration.

Assessment of the Use of Digital Technologies by the Overseas Filipino Workers on Coping Up With The Global Pandemic

Assessment of the Use of Digital Technologies by the Overseas Filipino Workers on Coping Up With The Global Pandemic