Being an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) often means being physically separated from your loved ones. While the distance can be tough, technology offers amazing ways to bridge the gap and keep those family bonds strong. Think of it less as a replacement for being there, and more as a tool that lets you be present in their lives, even from miles away.
Making the Most of Video Calls
Video calls are perhaps the most obvious, but also the most powerful tool at your disposal. It’s not just about seeing faces, it’s about sharing experiences in real-time. Instead of just a quick “Hi, how are you?”, try to schedule regular video calls that feel more like a catch-up session. Apps like WhatsApp, Viber, Messenger, and Zoom make these calls easy and accessible, as they are widely used and generally don’t incur fees aside from local internet costs. If you can schedule these calls around meal times, even better! You can all “eat together” and talk about your day. It creates a sense of normalcy and shared experience, even though you’re not physically in the same room.
Tip: Don’t just talk about the big things. Focus on the small details of your day, and ask your family to do the same. What did they eat for breakfast? What funny thing happened at school? Who did they see at the store? These little details build a strong sense of connection.
Another idea is to use video calls to help with homework. If your child is struggling with a math problem, you can guide them through it over video, just like you would if you were there. You can even read bedtime stories over video call. Seeing your face and hearing your voice can be incredibly comforting for your kids, especially when they’re missing you.
Sharing Photos and Videos Regularly
Photos and videos are a fantastic way to share snippets of your life with your family. Instead of just posting on social media, consider creating a private online album or using a family messaging app to share photos and videos directly with your loved ones. This allows you to share more personal moments that you might not want to share with the world.
For example, if you’re cooking a meal that reminds you of home, take a photo of it and send it to your family. If you’re visiting a beautiful place, take a video and share it with them. These small gestures can make a big difference in making your family feel like they’re a part of your life, even when you’re far away. Moreover, create videos that are uniquely your style. Maybe you prepare videos where you greet each family member personally, including their respective favorite song as a background music.
Consider creating weekly “vlogs” where you recap your week and share your thoughts and feelings. These vlogs don’t have to be professionally produced – just a simple video of you talking to the camera is enough. It’s a great way to keep your family updated on your life and to make them feel like they’re getting to know you even better.
Playing Online Games Together
Online games offer a fun and engaging way to bond with your family, especially your kids. There are tons of online games that you can play together, from simple puzzle games to more complex multiplayer games. Popular choices include mobile games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang or online board games that can be played across different devices. This is a great way to have fun with your children whilst strengthening your bond as a family.
The key is to find games that everyone enjoys playing. Let each family member suggest a game, and try them out together. It’s not about winning or losing, it’s about spending time together and having fun. This is also a good way to help your children relax after a difficult day at school, since playing games allow people to de-stress without necessarily engaging in competitive and often aggressive behavior.
Tip: Set a regular “game night” where you all play together. This gives everyone something to look forward to and helps to create a sense of routine.
Watching Movies or Shows Together
Even though you’re miles away, you can still enjoy movie nights with your family. Many streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video offer features that allow you to watch movies or shows together in real-time, even if you’re in different locations. Some offer a “watch party” feature that allows you to synchronize playback and chat with each other while you watch.
Decide on a movie or show that everyone wants to watch, set a time, and grab some snacks. It’s just like being in the same room, except you’re connected via the internet. Use the chat feature to make comments, laugh at jokes, and share your thoughts. It’s a great way to feel like you’re spending quality time together, even when you’re physically apart.
Writing Letters and Sending Care Packages
In the age of instant communication, something as simple as a handwritten letter can be incredibly meaningful. Taking the time to write a letter shows that you’re thinking of your family and that you care about them. In the letter, you can share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This is a great way to bond with loved ones on a more personal level, and to build a strong, lasting relationship. Another technique is to write about the funny moments you experienced that day, or about the memorable experience you had when you were younger.
Care packages are another great way to show your love and affection. Fill a box with your family’s favorite treats, small gifts, and handwritten notes. Sending a care package is a tangible way to show that you’re thinking of them and that you care about their well-being. For example, you may send customized shirts or bags for each family member. Alternatively, you may want to send your child their favorite school supplies. The possibilities are endless!
Tip: Include personal items in your care package, such as photos, drawings, or small mementos that remind you of each other. This will make the package even more special.
Using Shared Calendars and To-Do Lists
Staying organized and connected can be a challenge when you’re living in different time zones. Using shared calendars and to-do lists can help you stay on top of things and ensure that everyone is on the same page. Google Calendar, for example, lets you create shared calendars that everyone in your family can access. This is a great way to track important dates, appointments, and events.
You can also use shared to-do lists to delegate tasks and responsibilities. For example, if you need someone to pay a bill or pick up something from the store, you can add it to the to-do list and assign it to a family member. This helps to ensure that everything gets done and that everyone is contributing. Moreover, consider listing the long-term goals of the family. This way, you can consult each other on those goals, thereby strengthening your bond as a family.
Creating a Family Website or Blog
Creating a family website or blog is a fun and creative way to share your family’s stories, photos, and videos with each other. It’s a digital scrapbook that you can all contribute to, and it’s a great way to preserve your family’s memories for years to come. You can start a free blog on platforms like Blogger or WordPress, or you can create a more customized website using a website builder like Wix or Squarespace.
On your family website or blog, you can share stories about your day, post photos and videos, and even write about your family’s history. You can also use it to share important announcements, such as birthdays, anniversaries, and other special events. This is a great way to keep everyone connected and to build a strong sense of family identity.
Sending Gifts and Using E-commerce
Sending gifts to your family is a great way to show that you care about them. With the rise of e-commerce, it’s easier than ever to send gifts to your loved ones, even when you’re miles away. There are many online retailers that specialize in sending gifts to the Philippines, such as Lazada, Shopee, and Flowerstore.ph. You can find a wide variety of gifts, from flowers and chocolates to electronics and clothing.
Tip: Consider sending personalized gifts that show you put thought and effort into the selection. A personalized photo album, a custom-made piece of jewelry, or a handwritten letter are all great options. Similarly, you can send useful gifts that would improve their quality of life such as air purifiers or water filters.
Most importantly, don’t just send gifts on special occasions like birthdays and Christmas. Surprise your family with small gifts throughout the year to show them that you’re thinking of them. It can be as simple as sending a box of their favorite snacks or a new book to read.
Supporting Each Other’s Dreams and Goals
Being an OFW is a sacrifice, but it’s important to remember that you’re doing it for your family. Support each other’s dreams and goals, and encourage each other to pursue your passions. This is important to remember, since it is easy to be disconnected from the dreams and goals of family members when you are working abroad for extended periods of time.
If your child wants to become a doctor, support them in their studies and encourage them to pursue their dream. If your spouse wants to start a business, help them develop a business plan and provide them with financial support. When you support each other’s dreams and goals, you’re strengthening your bond and creating a foundation for a happy and successful future. Furthermore, it is a great practice and reminder to discuss your goals and plans together instead of deciding independently.
Using Technology for Financial Planning Together
Managing finances can be stressful, especially when you’re living apart. Use technology to make financial planning easier and more transparent. There are many budgeting apps like Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget) or local Philippines-specific apps that allow you to track your income and expenses, set financial goals, and create a budget together. This is important, especially given that the Philippine Statistics Authority reported that overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) remitted an estimated PHP 35.67 billion in cash in January 2024. It is essential to properly set aside these funds.
By sharing your financial information with each other, you can make informed decisions about how to spend and save your money. You can also use technology to automate your savings, such as setting up automatic transfers from your bank account to your savings account, so that you will not be tempted to spend your savings. This can help everyone feel more secure and confident about your financial future.
Maintaining Open and Honest Communication
Open and honest communication is the foundation of any strong relationship. Make sure to communicate regularly with your family, even when you’re busy or tired. Talk about your day, your feelings, and your challenges. Listen to their concerns and offer your support. This is extremely important, especially given the physical distance that you and your family members have.
Be honest about your struggles and challenges. Don’t try to hide your feelings or pretend that everything is okay when it’s not. By being open and vulnerable, you’re creating a safe space for your family to do the same. Furthermore, set up regular schedules (such as monthly family meetings) to assess the health of your relationship and address any concerns.
Visiting Home When Possible
While technology is a great tool for staying connected, it’s no substitute for face-to-face interaction. If possible, try to visit your family as often as possible. Even a short visit can make a big difference in strengthening your bond and reminding you of what’s important.
Plan your visits in advance so that you can make the most of your time together. Schedule fun activities, such as going to the beach, visiting a theme park, or simply spending time at home with your loved ones. Make sure to take lots of photos and videos so that you can remember your visit for years to come. This is particularly important for long-distance relationships where the physical affection and connection is often overlooked.
Investing in Reliable Internet Connection
All the tips above hinge on one crucial element: a reliable internet connection. Both you and your family need to have access to a stable and fast internet connection to make video calls, play online games, and share photos and videos. This may entail investing in a better internet plan or upgrading your devices.
Shop around and compare different internet providers to find the best deal. Consider getting a plan that offers unlimited data and fast speeds. You may also want to invest in a good quality router to ensure that your internet connection is stable and reliable. This is because faulty internet connections are often one of the greatest sources of stress amongst families in long-distance relationships.
Educating Yourself to Protect Against Scams
Unfortunately, OFWs are often targeted by scams and fraudulent schemes. Educate yourself about common scams and learn how to protect yourself from becoming a victim. Be wary of unsolicited emails or phone calls asking for money or personal information. Never send money to someone you don’t know or trust. Always verify the identity of the person or organization before sending any money.
Report any suspected scams to the authorities. You can also report scams to the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) or the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). By being vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself and your family from being scammed.
FAQs
Q: How do I deal with feeling homesick?
A: Homesickness is a very common feeling for OFWs. Try to stay connected with your family and friends as much as possible. Engage in activities that remind you of home, such as cooking Filipino food, listening to Filipino music, or watching Filipino movies. You may want to consider reaching out to other OFWs and building a small community far from home. Also, focus on the positive aspects of your experience, such as the opportunity to earn a good living and support your family.
Q: What if my family isn’t tech-savvy?
A: Be patient and understanding. Not everyone is comfortable with technology. Start with the basics, such as video calls, and gradually introduce them to other tools and apps. Provide clear and simple instructions, and offer to help them whenever they need it. You can also look for online tutorials or workshops that can help them improve their tech skills. Be extremely understanding of their pace and let each member learn by experience.
Q: How can I manage the time zone difference?
A: The time zone difference can be a challenge, but it’s manageable. Try to find a time that works for both you and your family to communicate regularly. This may involve scheduling your calls or video chats in the evenings or on weekends or even extremely early in the morning. Use online time zone converters to help you calculate the time difference. Be flexible and willing to adjust your schedule to accommodate your family’s needs.
Q: How do I handle disagreements with my family when I’m far away?
A: Disagreements are inevitable, even when you’re not living apart. The key is to communicate openly and respectfully. Listen to each other’s perspectives, and try to find a compromise that works for everyone. Avoid raising your voice or using harsh language. If you can’t resolve the disagreement on your own, consider seeking help from a trusted friend or family member.
Q: How can I make my children feel loved and connected when I’m away?
A: Make sure to tell your children that you love them regularly. Send them handwritten letters, care packages, and small gifts. Spend quality time with them during video calls, and engage in activities that they enjoy. Be present in their lives, even from afar. Attend their school events virtually, help them with their homework, and listen to their concerns. By being engaged and supportive, you can make your children feel loved and connected, even when you’re not physically present.
Q: What resources are available to support OFWs and their families?
A: There are many organizations in your area or region that offer support for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provides a wide range of services, including financial assistance, training programs, and legal assistance. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is another government agency that provides support to OFWs. There are also many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that offer assistance to OFWs and their families. Seek out these resources and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
References
Philippine Statistics Authority
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration
Department of Migrant Workers
Don’t let distance define your relationship with your family. Embrace technology, be creative, and put in the effort to stay connected. It’s not always easy, but the rewards of a strong, loving family bond are worth it. Start small, be consistent, and remember that every little bit counts!
