Daddy’s home: Ex-seafarer reunites with family
OFW parents leave the country to earn and secure a brighter future for their children. So it was for former seafarer Carlito Oviedo Jr., who decided to be home for good and be with his children.
“My wife and I worked together on a cruise ship. When the pandemic hit, we both went home. When the pandemic restrictions eased, we decided that she go back to work on the cruise ship, and I will be left to take care of the kids,” Carlito, 45, narrated.
“It’s my time to look after the kids. Since their birth, both of our parents have been abroad, and my mother-in-law and mom took turns rearing them.”
Picking a place for his family to stay in
Before his wife left for abroad, the couple searched for a home. They wanted a place that would help create good family memories. They chanced upon SMDC Trees Residences in Fairview, Quezon City. “My wife and I passed this area whenever we went to my mom’s house in Maligaya and my motherin-law’s in North Caloocan,” Carlito shared. “We saw this place and found the place pretty, so we inquired about a unit.”
The couple instantly liked the property because they felt safe and secure. “It’s a gated place with 24 hours security. It’s close to the homes of my mom and my in-laws. It’s near a mall (SM Fairview) and has access to public transportation going to Bulacan, Quezon City and Novaliches. It’s easy for you to commute.”
Moreover, the property had wide open spaces for leisurely walks, enjoying the breeze, or even swimming and exercising.
The family moved in. In their new home, Carlito bonded with his children, most especially during the height of the nationwide lockdowns.
“During the pandemic, everything was closed, and no one was allowed to go out. It’s good that our new community has features and amenities where we can do activities and bond as a family, even with the health protocols in place.”
Having a home In a place that allows relaxation and spending more time with his kids, Carlito enjoys the fruits of his and his wife’s labors.
“My advice to fellow OFWs is if you’re able to save, invest in a place like this because it’s safe. A place like the Trees Residences is a wise choice: if you don’t live there, you could rent and earn from it. The place is safe, and there are so many amenities like a swimming pool, you can go jogging, and you can go to a park where you can play basketball. Invest in a place like this, and your money won’t go to waste.”