OFWs struggle to see their dying parents

His dying father’s wish was to see his son one last time.

His son, JU, had signed a two-year contract to work in Dubai and was barely on his first year.  Coming home would mean he would not be able to finish his contract, which he had worked hard to get.

Dilemmas like this face many overseas workers.

JU was informed of his father’s wish that he come home. But frankly, he was conflicted and asked for the advice of Bantay OCW.

JU said he didn’t even have the money to come home because he had already sent all his money to cover the medicines of his father. Besides, his own wife and children were depending on his overseas work to guarantee them a better future.

We advised JU to come home. Whatever happens, he shouldn’t take it too hard.  Even if his father dies before he gets home, his conscience won’t snare him because he was on his way home. He should do whatever it takes to be home as soon as possible.

Recently, we received a text message from JU. He was back in the Philippines and yes, he was there when his father took his last breath.  He told us he was able to spend a week with his father. His father passed away last week.

He also told us he has freely accepted all that has happened and he was grateful that we advised him to come home.

He was also thinking of not returning to Dubai.

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Susan Andes, also known as Susan K., can be heard over  Inquirer Radio, dzIQ 990 AM, Monday to Friday, 10:30 am-12:00 noon. Audio/video live streaming is at www.ustream.tv/channel/dziq. Helpline: 0927- 6499870

E-mail: [email protected]/susan [email protected]