Kabayan Merit

 

Hi, please hide my identity. Please call me Jessica — not my real name — from Masbate City in the Philippines.

I am writing this letter not to complain, but to share my story in the hope that it reaches another Kabayan who might be going through the same journey.

I came to Abu Dhabi eight years ago, not because I wanted to, but because I had to.

Back home in the Philippines, I had dreams. I was in my third year of college, studying to be a teacher in a state university. Ever since I was a child, I dreamed of standing in front of a classroom, changing lives through education. But life had other plans.

My father got sick, and the hospital bills piled up faster than we could count. My younger siblings were in school, and my mother was doing everything she could — selling kakanin, barbecue, and even doing laundry for neighbors and relatives. I remember overhearing her one night, crying quietly while holding the medical bills. That night, I made a decision — I needed to find a way.

I tried borrowing money from relatives and friends. I reached out to some people — people I thought would understand our situation. But not a single one of them was able to help. Some said they didn’t have anything to spare, while others just ignored my messages completely. It was one of the lowest points of my life. I felt invisible. It was painful to realize that when you're in need, even those closest to you can turn away. But what hurt more was realizing that sometimes, the people we expect help from — even family — aren’t the ones who will show up.

And then, someone did.

She wasn’t family. She wasn’t even a close friend. She was one of my college teachers. I still remember her words:

"Naniniwala ako sa’yo. Don’t give up on your future, Jessica. You’ll pay it forward someday."

She lent me the money I needed — no questions asked. That moment changed everything. With her help, I was able to process my papers and fly to the UAE.

I didn’t know anyone here. My first job was as a cleaner in a hotel — 12-hour shifts, sometimes without a proper meal. I cried during my breaks, missing home, missing the dream I left behind. But every payday, when I sent money back home and heard my siblings say, "Ate, naka-enroll na po kami," or when my mother said, "Anak, nakabili na kami ng mga gamot ni Papa," I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be.

The truth is, being an OFW is not as glamorous as people think. Behind every selfie is a tired body; behind every balikbayan box is a missed birthday or holiday. But we do it — not for ourselves — but for those we love.

I’m still here in Abu Dhabi. I’ve changed jobs since then, and I’ve learned to find joy in the little things.

My siblings are now in college, both taking up education — because we share the same dreams, the same goals. Even if they get to live our dream first before I do, it’s okay.

My father is doing better now — much better compared to the difficult years when I was still in the Philippines.

And just last year, I finally enrolled in an online course. Slowly, I am picking up the pieces of my old dream.

I’ll be here in Abu Dhabi for two more years. That’s my plan.

And I made a promise to myself — when I return to the Philippines, I will fulfill my dream.

I will become a teacher.

Maybe not as soon as possible, but I know… one day, I will.

And to the teacher who once believed in me — thank you. Two years after I left the Philippines, I heard from a former classmate that her home was destroyed in a fire. She didn’t ask for help. She never would. But I remembered the kindness she showed me when I had nothing. That same week, I started sending money for her rent and her basic needs.

I promised myself I will continue paying her rent for as long as she needs it.

Because the people who believe in us during our lowest moments — they deserve to be honored, not forgotten.

To every OFW reading this — if you’ve ever given up something for your family, know that you are not alone. Our sacrifices may not always be seen, but they are deeply felt. And even if we had to let go of our own dreams, we’ve become the stepping stones for the dreams of those we love.

Laban lang, Kabayan.

Darating din ang tamang oras para sa’yo.

For now, keep the faith.

And never forget to give back — because one act of kindness can change an entire life.

— Jessica, a Kabayan in Abu Dhabi