‘Buhay OFW’ marks first year of helping Pinoys abroad
“That, amidst the hardships, they [overseas Filipino workers] can still be heroes for themselves and those they love. Buhay OFW, therefore, will tell their stories.”
T HIS was the driving force behind Buhay OFW when it first aired in October last year. Since then, the program— hosted by Marissa del Mar and shown at TV5’s news channel,
Aksyon TV— has successfully narrated the tales of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
There are about 11 million OFWs working abroad as doctors, physical therapists, nurses, accountants, IT professionals, engineers, architects, entertainers, technicians, teachers, military servicemen, seafarers, factory workers, caregivers, and domestic helpers— in countries such as US, UK, Taiwan, Japan, Middle East, Singapore, Hong Kong, and many more.
Serving foreign lands, OFWs help their families improve lives and have proven to be an important part of the Philippine economy. Working abroad, however, also comes with countless adversities such as homesickness and discrimination, and even exploitation.
To address these situations, Buhay OFW has made it mission to be the venue for overseas Filipinos and their families to air their concern and hopefully alleviate their plight. Today, as the program celebrates its first year,
Buhay OFW stages a grand trade exhibit that aims to offer more opportunities where OFWs can invest in or start their own business, as well as educate them on how to prepare for their future. The event takes place on October 15 and 16 at the Glorietta Activity Center, Makati City.
Exhibitors from different sectors are expected to join including manpower agencies, travel agencies, franchise businesses, dealership and distribution, banks, insurance and financial companies offering investments, service companies, retail companies, technology companies, international companies, educational institutions, IT services and technology, health and wellness products, and a lot more.
During the event, Buhay OFW will also launch its first search for Mr. and Ms. Citizen of the World. The competition is produced by the Buhay
OFW Foundation in cooperation with Millicent Productions Inc.
Buhay OFW Mr. and Ms. Citizen of the World aims to strengthen and preserve the core values of a happy OFW family, relatives and friends. It will also promote
the Filipino culture and heritage as foundations of world citizenship for others to emulate.
The search has two categories namely “Most Successful Story” and “Most Inspiring Story,” which will serve basis for the pageant winners.
The search is open to all active and former OFWs, or their representatives like wife, husband, mother, father, children, siblings or first degree, who will tell an authentic rags- to- riches story. Ages 18 and up can join.
To join candidates must submit the application form available at www.buhayofw.com, and all LTO and OWWA offices nationwide, and recruitment and manning agencies. Submission of entries is until November 25.
The coronation night will be held on March 22, 2013 at the Quezon City Memorial Circle. Prizes for winners include computer packages, “pangkabuhayan” packages, sari-sari store packages, cash prizes, out-of-town trips, scholarship grants, and many more.