Jetky’s Story:
Life used to be simple. I was once married and living with my family in Cebu, where we shared many joyful moments. But as the years passed, things began to unravel, and my marriage eventually ended because of personal and financial struggles.
After the separation, I returned to the province to live with my mother. My youngest child was just a year old then. My mother helped me care for all three of my children while I tried to pick up the pieces of my broken life. However, no matter how strong I tried to be, the pain of having a broken family never left me. I didn’t know how to face the future at that point. I just knew I had to keep going. I had to fight, not just for myself, but for my children. Their father never once offered support, so I had to take on both parenting roles.
To survive, I made the hardest decision of my life: to leave my children behind and work abroad. It was a leap into the unknown – a new country, a new culture, a different language, and new expectations. Every day was a challenge.
I have since worked for seven families from different cultures in Singapore for 21 years now. Each home had its own way of life and its own challenges. Over the years, I became a master of time management, patience, and emotional resilience.
Being far from my children is still the hardest part. I’m not there when they are sick; I’m not there to wipe their tears; I miss birthdays, graduations, school events, and Sunday dinners. Sometimes, during video calls, I see the longing to be close to their mother in their eyes. I sincerely believe they feel my love for them. I pray that one day, they will understand why I made this choice, which is ultimately for them, for their dreams, and for a better life.
One of the greatest blessings in my journey was discovering HOME. Through their programmes, I learned new skills, especially in cooking and baking. These were not just practical skills, they were lifelines. Through HOME, I found healing, strength, and purpose. They helped me rediscover my voice, and through them, I found a second family.
Helping others, especially fellow Overseas Foreign Workers, gives me strength, peace, and meaning. I believe that when we uplift others, we also uplift ourselves. By sharing my story, by listening, and by reaching out, I’ve become part of something bigger than myself. My life is not only about sacrifice. It is about healing, empowerment, and community. I am now more confident, independent, and resilient.
To every domestic worker: You are not alone. Your sacrifices are seen. Your strength is real. Your love is powerful. Keep going. You are brave. You are beautiful. You are deeply loved.
To my dearest children, thank you for being my reason to fight. One day, you will understand all that I gave up for you. I may be far, but my love is with you every second of every day.