You have to work in order to live. One reason why people their own country is to work and earn more money that what they usually receive to give more adequate supply to their family’s essential needs. Furthermore, in some cases it is not an easy job to be away from your dear family, friends and other relatives. Some OFW’s even tend to sacrifice almost everything (especially women) they have in return to get higher wage and salaries; however, we often hear on news that they are killed by their own employers. It is a devastating fact that is happening nowadays that we must all know. Even if there are benefits when living in Saudi Arabia and living in your own country (Philippines), living in Saudi Arabia also has negative effects than living in the Philippines.
Living in Saudi Arabia and living in your own country are the same in some situations and ways. First, the qualities of good Filipino citizens are still manifested that are still being practiced which we cannot hide in the reality that we are helpful, hospitable and cheerful when gathered around. Just like going to Batha or Divisoria, you will encounter and see people who will be there to help and be if service. More likely, in time of security, a single shout or scream that serves as a threat in your case will let them offer helping hands. Second, we can also give a day to talk about spiritual aspects. In Saudi Arabia or in the Philippines, you are given a free will to attend masses that will strengthen your relationship towards God; In addition to that, the numbers of rest days are equal to the weekends in the Philippines. As long as you can agree to their terms and condition and will pay according to the accord, a house in your own country is suitable enough, just like in Saudi Arabia.
Despite the benefits it give, there are also some disadvantages too when living in Saudi Arabia and living in the Philippines. Firstly, in terms of protection against kidnapping, carnapping and any form of threat in your property, hundreds of question will be asked first plus the patience that you have to give since not all can speak in English. Not like in the Philippines, you could easily understand each other and will work on it as they can. Secondly, unlike in your country; freedom in Saudi Arabia is only about 20% where single men and women are strictly not allowed to join in the same room. Dating in public as an example is also forbidden.
In conclusion, there are both some benefits, like practicing our strong quality as Filipinos and enhance our relationship towards God and disadvantage, like the protection and freedom between living in Saudi Arabia and living in the Philippines. Living in Saudi Arabia had been done by our Filipino citizens years ago, whether it is because of brain drain or brawn drain I still hope that they will reconsider the solutions that the state are implementing to help our own country rise from great hardships. People too must decide about all the possible good and negative effects in their lives, once they have decided whether to work abroad and help our country develop its economic growth in terms of productivity.
Einstitute 