Pinoy OFW Podcast

Life at sea can be rewarding, but many Filipino seafarers face tough realities once their sailing days are over. In this episode, we uncover the five most common regrets of those who didn’t plan ahead for life after maritime work — from financial missteps and unstable investments to lost time with family and challenges adjusting back to land life. We’ll talk about what lessons current seafarers can learn, how to prepare early for r...

Money and family can be a complicated mix—especially for Overseas Filipino Workers who often feel pressure to help loved ones back home. In this episode, we discuss how OFWs can lend money wisely without damaging relationships or their financial stability. We’ll explore common scenarios, emotional triggers, and the guilt that comes with saying “no.” Listeners will learn how to set clear boundaries, create repayment agreements, and ...

Not all friendships made abroad are built to last—or to help you grow. In this episode, we talk about how OFWs can recognise the difference between supportive friends and those who might hold them back. We’ll explore traits of genuine friendships that uplift, encourage saving and self-improvement, and respect your priorities. At the same time, we’ll discuss warning signs of toxic company—like constant negativity, gossip, or pressur...

The Philippines is known as the “seafaring capital of the world,” supplying a large share of the global maritime workforce. In this episode, we trace how the nation earned that title—from its strong maritime training programs and English proficiency to its seafaring tradition and global demand for Filipino workers. We’ll explore how agencies, unions, and international shipping companies shaped this thriving industry, as well as the...

Being away from home for extended periods can strain relationships and test personal boundaries. In this episode, we explore why some Overseas Filipino Workers enter extramarital affairs while working abroad. We’ll discuss factors like loneliness, emotional needs, cultural influences, and the pressures of living far from family. Listeners will hear insights into how communication gaps, stress, and temptation can affect even committ...

Many Overseas Filipino Workers earn well abroad, yet financial missteps can haunt them for years. In this episode, we explore 10 common money regrets—from overspending on lifestyle and family obligations to relying too much on loans, failing to invest, or neglecting retirement planning. We’ll also discuss how poor budgeting, impulsive decisions, and lack of financial literacy contribute to these regrets. Listeners will gain insight...

Working abroad is more than just earning a salary—it’s about building a future. In this episode, we share practical ways OFWs can maximise their time overseas, from setting clear financial goals and saving consistently to investing in skills that open long-term opportunities. We’ll also talk about balancing work with self-care, nurturing relationships back home, and planning for eventual reintegration into the Philippines. By makin...

Coming home after years abroad is often imagined as joyful, but for many OFWs, reunions can be bittersweet. In this episode, we dive into the less-talked-about side of homecomings—family tensions over money, jealousy among peers, and the pressure to show success at school or community reunions. We’ll explore how expectations clash with reality, why some OFWs feel out of place in their own hometowns, and how unresolved issues surfac...

Adjusting to life overseas often means leaving behind certain habits that don’t fit in a new environment. In this episode, we highlight 9 common Filipino habits that can hold you back when starting life abroad—from excessive utang na loob and pasalubong spending to relying too much on gossip networks or sticking only with fellow Filipinos. We’ll explain why these practices may cause financial strain, misunderstandings, or missed op...

Hong Kong is a popular destination for Overseas Filipino Workers, especially in domestic work, healthcare, and service industries. In this episode, we explore the realities of living and working in this bustling city—from competitive salaries and modern amenities to the challenges of long hours, cramped living spaces, and high living costs. We’ll also cover cultural adjustments, language barriers, and the importance of building com...

Being an Overseas Filipino Worker often means physical separation from loved ones, which can strain even the strongest relationships. In this episode, we explore practical ways OFWs can nurture bonds with family, partners, and friends despite the miles. We’ll discuss the importance of consistent communication through calls, video chats, and messaging apps, setting realistic expectations, and planning regular visits when possible. L...

Faith is a cornerstone of Filipino life, and for many Overseas Filipino Workers, maintaining spirituality while away from home provides strength and resilience. In this episode, we explore how OFWs nurture their faith despite long hours, cultural differences, and physical distance from family and hometown churches.

From joining local Filipino Catholic communities and online masses to personal prayer routines, devotionals, and celeb...

Life aboard a cruise ship is one of the most unique experiences for Overseas Filipino Workers. In this episode, we uncover the perks and hardships of working at sea. From free travel across the globe, tax-free income, and friendships with an international crew to the long hours, strict discipline, and months away from family—Filipino seafarers live a world of contrast.

We’ll talk about the diverse roles OFWs take on in cruise liner...

For many Overseas Filipino Workers, one of the toughest decisions is whether to continue working abroad or finally return home for good. This episode dives into the key factors every OFW should consider when weighing this life-changing choice. We’ll explore financial stability—do you already have enough savings or investments to sustain life in the Philippines?

Family relationships—how much time are you willing to miss, and how str...

Many Filipinos dream of going to the Middle East for better pay, but life as an unskilled worker isn’t always what it seems. In this episode, we uncover the hidden truths behind these jobs—long hours, low wages compared to skilled roles, and contracts that may limit freedom of movement.

We’ll discuss common challenges such as harsh working conditions, cultural adjustments, and limited opportunities for career growth. At the same ti...

For many Overseas Filipinos, the big question isn’t just about earning abroad—it’s whether to stay for good or eventually return home. In this episode, we explore the factors that shape this life-changing decision. We’ll discuss the benefits of pursuing permanent residency, such as stability, access to healthcare and education, and long-term security for your family.

On the other hand, we’ll weigh the emotional pull of returning ho...

Losing a job abroad is every OFW’s nightmare—but knowing your rights can make all the difference. In this episode, we break down what protections overseas Filipino workers have when terminated or laid off. We’ll cover the legal obligations of foreign employers, what’s stated in your employment contract, and how Philippine agencies like the DMW and OWWA can step in to help. You’ll also learn about repatriation rights, claims for u...

Coming home after years of working abroad can feel like starting over. In this episode, we dive into how OFWs can successfully rebuild their careers when returning to the Philippines. We’ll explore strategies for re-entering the local job market, including updating your résumé with international experience, networking effectively, and considering retraining or certifications to match local industry standards.

We’ll also discuss opp...

For many Filipinos, domestic work abroad is a pathway to better opportunities, but it often comes with unique struggles. In this episode, we highlight seven key challenges Filipino domestic workers face overseas—from long working hours and lack of rest days to cultural differences, homesickness, and language barriers. We’ll also tackle issues of unfair treatment, underpayment, and restrictions on personal freedom that some workers ...