Hi, my name is Marie Charlotte Bondoc, a  mother  of four kids and a proud migrant , " Domestic Helper" here in Hongkong.

Year 2017,25th of July was the beginning of my life's journey here.At first it was all curiosity in me.Exploring around was a great deal..I have this fear that I might get lost..fear of travelling far. Meeting  a lot of people was soon a surprising one! I heard a lot of stories from them and I honestly learned a lot..experiences from their employers and the language.I realized one thing..."its not going to be easy".

I was  a professional teacher way back home,Philippines, for a long period of time.I never had in mind to migrate before but because of the expanding expenses im having , I decided to resigned as a teacher ...until I woke up one day..presto! I'm already an OFW here in HongKong.

A lot  of people reminded me about the word "HOMESICK" and I told them "I can handle it". Before I went here, I totally have set myself...my mind,body and prepared for the challenges that I will be facing or encounter.My students were telling me before not to go and just stay because they will be missing me  as soon as I leave..the lessons,excitements,fun,laughter,thrill inside the room.I need to go...work,earn for my kids' future.

Being a migrant here in Hongkong is a tough task because of the challenging roles...a helper,a mother,a chef,a teacher,a friend and sometimes a doctor for myself,,I need to be flexible.But all of these did not became a hindrance.It's definitely a serious life to live in.I kept myself busy, avoided negative words because I know it wont help me.

The first month to first year was a long term process of adjusting to all kind of matters concerning life.I put more patience,hard work,trust to God and kept myself inspired for my family.I always alarm myself,my movements and all because I dont want my employer to get upset on me. IT WAS REALLY TIRING! BUT LIFE MUST GO ON! Facing different misunderstandings with my emoloyer was a real thing..The grammar is killing me too!

 "Cook yourself",

"Fire the fish and rice","Buy traffic lights" and more!.My employer wont allow me to have a day off sometimes because they need my services..it is with payment but I realized that it's not enough for my efforts.2 years ended!

They did not renewed my contract.

NOT SO BAD...before I ended my contract with them, I applied in a good agency..got 4  choices(employer A to D). I think it's a blessing from above.I have chosen a better family.I'm now rendering my service to them for 6 months here in Tuen Mun New Territories.I have my private room ,they are nice to me , no curfews during holidays and doing smoothly very well.

After my hardship from my first contract, now is the time to feel better.

So, as a proud migrant here in HongKong , I encourage every OFW to be strong enough in facing all the challenges in life,we went here with a PURPOSE.God is working silently for us to be better in the future.Everything will be better soon.

A salute to all the migrant "PANGYAO" here in Hongkong! We can make a big difference and change our future.

IT IS SACRIFICING for our families ,its our way of LOVING them.

Be more patient.

Be POSITIVE.

TRUST GOD.SMILE

LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST!

LET'S DO IT!