How OFWs’ sacrifices can pay off

Over 10 million Filipinos work overseas. They brave loneliness, distance, and sacrifice to give their families a better life. But behind every remittance and balikbayan box lies one question: Is this sacrifice truly paying off?

The heartbreaking truth is that many OFWs return home after years abroad with little to show for it. Not because they didn’t work hard, but because they didn’t plan smart.

I’ve met countless OFWs who earned well but ended up broke after coming home. Why? Because money without management disappears.

Let’s talk about how to make sure your hard work abroad becomes lasting wealth at home.

1. Save before you send. Most OFWs send almost everything back to their families, keeping nothing for themselves. But remember, you can’t help your family long term if you don’t secure yourself first. Save at least 10-20 percent of your income before remitting. You worked hard for it. Let your future benefit too.

2. Set family boundaries. It’s natural to want to give, but endless requests from relatives can drain even a good salary. Be loving but firm. Create a family budget and make expectations clear. Supporting your loved ones doesn’t mean funding every whim.

3. Invest in knowledge, not just remittances. Before investing in a business or property, invest in financial education. Many OFWs lose money to scams or unplanned ventures because they trusted without understanding. Learn first, invest later.

4. Build assets, not liabilities. Instead of buying another gadget or luxury, build income-generating assets—a small rental property, a side business, an investment fund. Aim for passive income so that when you come home, your money is still working even if you aren’t.

5. Plan your homecoming. Don’t wait until your contract ends. Start preparing early. Build savings, update your skills, and explore opportunities at home so you have options beyond working abroad again.

You left the country to attain a better life. Make sure that dream doesn’t end the day you stop working overseas.

Your years of sacrifice deserve more than temporary comfort. They deserve lasting peace.

(Chinkee Tan is a wealth coach, author, and motivational speaker helping Filipinos achieve financial peace. Follow him on YouTube and Facebook @ChinkeeTan for more money lessons, motivation and daily inspiration.)