Amazing OFW Stories! (Part 1)

Whether it’s the need to financially provide for their families or to satisfy their thirst for adventure, many Filipinos would not hesitate to seek their fortunes abroad should an opportunity come knocking at their door. And while many global Pinoys don’t manage to realize their dreams abroad, certain OFWs managed to take the extra mile and achieve more for them. Below are three such OFWs.

Myrna Padilla

At age 16, Myrna found herself ensnared by a human trafficking ring who promised her financial betterment abroad. She even found herself homeless at one point. Luckily, she managed to escape her ordeal, and she’s able to work as a domestic helper in various countries. However, it was in Hongkong that she learned how to use the computer, courtesy of her alaga, Jonathan. Using her newfound skills, she eventually started Mynd Consulting, a BPO that offers various services like virtual assistance, bug testing, and social media management to various clients worldwide.

Mike Bolos

In the Plaza Burgos of Guagua, Pampanga lies the One Crowne Plaza Mall, a three-storey commercial center that’s estimated to be worth Php 60 million. The mall also happens to be the crowning achievement of one Mike Bulos. Born to a working class family, Mike had to juggle his academic life with a series of odd jobs. During his early years, he learned basic business skills from his mother, as well as patience from his father. He eventually became an accountant, toiling in Saudi Arabia for 25 years, while building and exponentially increases his wealth through sound financial management. His achievements are proof that Pinoy sacrifice, coupled with smart investments and decisions, can help you achieve your dreams.

Rebecca Bustamante

Rebecca Bustamante left her Pangasinan hometown at age 18 for Manila, where she struggled financially while working as a sales lady and factory worker a year later, she decided to work as a domestic helper in Singapore. Being hard-working, she eventually managed to save enough money to study Accounting at the Open University of Singapore Institute of Management. She later went on to Canada to work as a nanny, and she managed to enroll for graduate studies at Ryerson University, which would later land her an employment in Mary Kay Cosmetics and the Canadian Embassy. Today, she’s a sought-after training consultant, and she’s the proud owner of Chalre Associates, a multinational recruitment company.

Wrapping Up

As an OFW, you need to make the most of your stay. By following the example of the three individuals listed above, you’ll be able to do that and more.