#WeAreMigrants Feature: Gilda M. in the Philippines
"Always keep a positive attitude with your employers to have a harmonious relationship. Respect everyone and stay humble." - Gilda M.
Gilda M.
Philippines
Retired OFW, now a home baker age group: 60 and up
1. WHAT’S THE MAIN REASON THAT YOU BECAME A MIGRANT OR MIGRANT WORKER?
I lost my husband in a tragic bus accident in 1992. As a single mother, I have decided to work in Singapore as a Domestic Worker, to support my children for their education. I stayed to work in Singapore for almost 27 years. I faced a lot of challenges but I persevere, so my children could finish their studies. And yes, they did finished their studies and have a job now.
2. WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST MOMENT AS A MIGRANT THIS 2021?
Working as a Migrant, I saw a lot of abuses and problems amongst the Domestic Workers. So I joined an NGO called H.O.M.E. (Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics). Having a compassion for my fellow Domestic Workers, my heart was broken to the abuses and cruelty of some employers. I was one of the leaders in HOME umbrella. Our team was called H.O.M.E. Nightingale. We visit Domestic Workers that were confined in hospitals and give help and support for their needs. We conduct workshops and seminars to educate the Domestic Workers about their health and well-being. I was able to attend an ILO Convention in Geneva, Switzerland, for Migrants Rights. Helping fellow Domestic Workers is so fulfilling, that even until now, a lot of friends in Singapore contact me for advice. That made me a proud Migrant Worker.
3. WHAT IS YOUR MESSAGE OF ENCOURAGEMENT OR EMPOWERMENT FOR MIGRANTS AROUND THE WORLD?
For all the Migrant Workers that are still working, make sure you keep some savings for emergency needs. Always keep a positive attitude with your employers to have a harmonious relationship. Respect everyone and stay humble. Start saving for your future. Learn how to invest for sustainability. Keep healthy because Health is Wealth!
4. WHO IS SOMEONE IN YOUR MIGRANT COMMUNITY WHO HAS SUPPORTED OR INSPIRED YOU THIS YEAR?
I have a friend named Michelle Mendoza, who is still working in Singapore. During this Pandemic, her employer gave her a Covid Bonus, and I'm one of the recipients whom she sent money. I was surprised, and she said it's for her support for my medication. And she sent me a Christmas cash gift as well. I am thankful, grateful and blessed by her action.
This feature is one of the entries to our #WeAreMigrants Contest - in celebration of International Migrants Day 2021.
Are you a domestic worker too?
Join our TeamTAYO Filipino Domestic Workers Group on Facebook here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/teamtayo.fildw
