I have worked in another country before Hong Kong, and every time I apply for a job, I always ask our Father in Heaven for mercy, because only he knows where I should be. By God’s mercy, I am very grateful for where I am now for 10 years, despite the situations I have experienced, good and bad, happy and sad, here in Hong Kong. One of the things I will never forget is how I started to serve in the church until now. I remember on my first day off I was looking for a church and that was the time I found my group and my ministry started…. and that is where I started my precious experience in Hong Kong, especially on Sundays in our apostolic works with my group and community.
— Ofelia Bermas
At the time, this was the only option I had, as I had finished my contract with my first and last job after university. Since I’m so eager to provide a better life for my family, I jumped at the opportunity when one of my relatives asked me if I was interested in working here, and I thought, why not Hong Kong, which is only two hours away from my home, so convenient, and the salary is much better compared to the contractual salary in Manila. It will easily help me fulfil my dreams. For the first few weeks, months and up to this writing, it was not difficult because I was lucky to be employed in a family with a co-worker who is understanding and kind. I never felt like I was away from the Philippines because eventually our working relationship turned into a friendship.
— Noreen B. Bricia
Before Hong Kong, my first job abroad was in Dubai and later in Abu Dhabi. Being away from my family, I suffered from homesickness and there were days when I felt lonely thinking about them. After some time, I decided to work in Hong Kong because of the low wages in my previous jobs. Life was difficult with my first employer here in Hong Kong. I was not given a decent meal. Also, my employer was often not in a good mood. The Lord heard my prayers and I later found a kind employer, whom I have served for three years. For me, working in Hong Kong has been a blessing. I have been able to save money here in Hong Kong. The Lord also led me to the St Jude’s Parish English community where I am actively serving every Sunday with the English choir.
— Ivy Delmoro Delgado
I chose to work here in Hong Kong, firstly because it is close to the Philippines and it is easy to go home. Secondly, the government here gives equal rights and there are laws that protect our rights as foreign domestic helpers. As for my work experience, it is not easy to work away from home. But then I was able to manage all my work while coping with homesickness. I have been working for my employers here in Hong Kong for 12 years now. And now I am very grateful that all my sacrifices have paid off.
— Rachel S. Layson
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
When I was working in the Middle East, I dreamed of working in Hong Kong, apart from high salary, there are holidays, freedom, especially they followed the rules and regulations with equal rights. I have my goals in life that no matter what difficulties I face, I will not give up! My first experience with my first employer was so difficult and miserable that I really wanted to quit my job. I am currently blessed to have found my second employer who is kind, generous and caring. I’m thankful to God that I’m here in Hong Kong and I’ve reached my third contract with them.
— Erna Odani
I chose to work here because Hong Kong is a safe country. Hong Kong pays high salary than the other countries. And when we miss our family and want to go back home, it is only 2 to 3 hours flight to go back to the Philippines. Working here in Hong Kong, you feel like you are still in the Philippines because every holiday you can see your friends and hang out with them if you want to.
I was nervous for a while because that was the year they found out about Covid. I was worried and thought what if I get the virus and die knowing that the vaccines are not out yet. But in Jesus’ name I am still alive so thank God for always protecting us and keeping us safe.
— Timmy Rillera
The main reason I want to work abroad is to get out of poverty, to help my parents and siblings as I am the eldest and to secure my future anyway. The reasons I stayed in Hong Kong are that I enjoy my work, I have a very good, supportive and loving employer. And I have really enjoyed looking after the dogs. I have not had any unpleasant experiences working here.
— Rovelyn Roncal
