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The Philippines has a long history of overseas employment, with millions of Filipinos working in various countries. These overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) contribute significantly to the Philippine economy, sending billions of dollars in remittances annually. While there are many types of jobs available to OFWs, certain professional jobs are more common than others. Here, we will explore some of the most common roles for OFWs.
1. Domestic Helpers
Domestic helpers, also known as household service workers, are among the most common jobs for OFWs. These workers perform various household tasks, such as cleaning, cooking, and caring for children or the elderly. Domestic helpers are in high demand in countries like Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Middle East.
2. Caregivers
Caregivers just like nurses care for the patient or the elderly. Caregivers focus on essential companionship and support such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and other errands. They may also provide emotional support. This role is in demand in Canada, Europe, Middle east, Japan, South Korea, and countries where aging population is rising.
3. Nurses
The healthcare industry is another sector where OFWs are highly sought after. Nurses, in particular, are in high demand in countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Filipino nurses are known for their excellent English language skills, strong work ethic, and compassionate care.
4. Engineers
Engineers, particularly those in the construction and electrical fields, are also common OFWs. Middle Eastern countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait have a high demand for engineers to work on infrastructure projects. Typically, employers sought Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Geodetical and Computer engineers.
5. Seafarers
The maritime industry is a significant employer of OFWs. Filipino seafarers, including ships' officers and crew members, work on various types of vessels, including cargo ships, tankers, and cruise ships. Seafarers are diversified and may include oiler, chef, boatswain, deckhands, engineers, ordinary seaman, and able seaman.
6. Teachers
Filipino teachers are highly sought after in countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia. They work in various educational settings, including public and private schools, universities, and language schools.
7. IT Professionals
The information technology (IT) industry is another sector where OFWs are in demand. Filipino IT professionals, including software developers, network administrators, and data analysts, work in countries like the United States, Singapore, and Japan.
8. Hospitality Workers
The hospitality industry is a significant employer of OFWs. Filipinos work in various hospitality jobs, including hotel receptionists, baristas (coffeemakers), cashiers, waiters, and housekeeping staff. Countries like the United States, and some Middle Eastern countries, need hospitality workers to fill up roles in restaurants, catering, and airline catering.
The bottom line
These are just a few of the most common professional jobs for OFWs. While the jobs mentioned above are in high demand, it's important to note that the job market for OFWs is constantly changing. Factors such as economic conditions, changes in immigration policies, and global events can affect the demand for certain jobs. Therefore, OFWS needs to stay informed about the job market and seek advice from recruitment agencies and other reliable sources.
References:
[1] International Labour Organization. (2019). Fair perspective: Stories of Filipino migrant workers in the media. Retrieved from
[2] https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---ed_protect/---protrav/---migrant/documents/publication/wcms_647733.pdf
[3] https://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=cd04c62c-1e09-46d7-bdbb-02e6491aff87
[4] https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---asia/---ro-bangkok/---ilo-manila/documents/publication/wcms_350673.pdf
[5] https://thedocs.worldbank.org/en/doc/10c897a0730557682d8b1d67a5a65adc-0050062023/original/Philippine-Migration-Experience-and-Cases-FORMATTED.pdf
[6] https://philarchive.org/archive/TUGHSN