Untold Story: Unraveling the Abuses as Faced by the Overseas Filipino Workers

This qualitative research study aimed to explore the abuses as faced by the Overseas Filipino Worker while working abroad and the lessons learned from them. The study utilized a narrative approach and used a validated interview guide consisting of five research questions. Five participants who met predetermined criteria were selected for the study. The research was conducted in the area of South Cotabato, Philippines. The study revealed that Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) plays a crucial role in the Philippines' economy, having the desire to provide a better future for their families. However, their journey is often filled with various forms of abuse. These abuses have profound impacts on their mental health, leading to feelings of insanity, depression, and even suicide ideation. Despite the challenges that they’ve experienced, OFWs utilized coping strategies such as faith, mind diversion, access to medical support, and family support to overcome all of these difficulties. Through their experiences, they gain life lessons in resilience, appreciation for life, spiritual connection, trust awareness, family inclusivity, and health prioritization. These lessons shape their character, strengthen their determination, and deepen their familial bonds, ultimately enriching their lives and the lives of their loved ones. Ultimately, this study underscores the necessity of comprehensive measures to protect their well-being and dignity.