By: Josephine A. Sanchez
MEA Migrant Coordinator

Background

The Philippines is one of the labor-rich countries in the world and it implements an aggressive labor export policy to employ its surplus workforce and address unemployment, and to generate foreign revenues that it needs to save its crisis-ridden economy. The recurring fiscal crisis in the country is a symptom of an unsustainable and maldeveloped third world country that is worsen by the new conditions of globalization. The government’s solution to the fiscal crisis have been to increase revenues through higher taxes, fees and tax reforms, to reduce spending through cutback in social services though unemployment is high, and the lay off of government workers. This resulting conditions adversely affected Filipino families.

For many decades now, the Philippines is the major supplier of economic migrants. Overseas migrant workers (OFWs) are scattered over 181 countries all over the world. Migrants come from different sectors of the society such as peasants, workers, professionals and low-level employees of the government and private companies. Research findings show that in the whole, most migrant workers, male and female are found in the following occupations: service industry, seafarers, nurses, domestic helpers, nannies, construction workers, and factory workers.

But in the early 90’s, feminization of migration is a global trend and it is markedly seen in the Philippines. There has been an increasing trend in female migration compared to men. There has been 73% of the overseas workers are women. In so far as employment is concerned, women are found in the skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled sector of work. However, only a few occupy skilled position in the international labor market. Majority migrate as domestic helpers, nannies, au-pairs, or entertainers and migration has become a viable alternative of Filipino families for survival.

Moreover, the contribution of OFWs are significant in sustaining many Filipino families and the crisis-ridden Philippines economy with their foreign currency remittances. The price can be high because aside from being separated from their families, they end up being subjected to oppressive working conditions, issues of securities to job and benefits, harassment, and illegal dismissal. Women migrants are the most vulnerable to sexual, physical abuse, and become victims of white slavery and even death. This painful realities confronted by the OFWs also affects their families left behind. In many cases, most families are suffering due to the psychological, emotional, and social effects caused by forced migration.

In response to the problems confronting the OFWs and their families, the Manila Episcopal Area has encouraged local churches, all districts or annual conferences to engage in the ministry for migrant workers and their families. Church leaders are being challenged to participate in this ministry and encourage to plan and implement program and services that gives special attention and pastoral care for migrants and their families. The objectives of this ministry are:

1. OFWs and families need to be formed, strengthened, and nurture in the Christian faith as they are subject to tremendous strain and stress in the different culture and environment. To evangelize and nurture OFWs and families through study groups, support cell groups that will help them become more spiritually mature.
2. OFW families are most vulnerable, especially in the case of young children. Church workers and concerned members shall be trained for this specialized ministry of caring, counseling, and nurturing. Local churches shall be encouraged to organize family support groups that provide Bible study and other helpful activities.
3. OFW families need assistance in stewardship, to wisely and carefully plan for the future. Training will be provided to homecoming OFWs and families on financial management in order to maximize the benefits of hard-earned money.
4. Seminars and other public discussions on issues and problems of OFWs shall be conducted in the UMC districts and annual conferences. Be able to disseminate information materials such as primers, guides and updates on various issues affecting migrants and their families.
5. Organizing migrant workers and their families is crucial. Be able to establish working relations, build network and linkages with existing Filipino organization engage in migrant work. This network will engage in lobbying and campaign to advocate for policy changes and legislation that would give maximum protection to OFWs.