Frequently Asked Questions about Children of OFW Parents

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 148 views

Understanding the Experiences of Children of OFW Parents: Insights from Books

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the phenomenon of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) has become a significant aspect of the Filipino experience. Many Filipino families have been affected by the migration of one or both parents to work abroad, leaving behind their children to be cared for by relatives or hired caregivers. This situation has raised concerns about the well-being and development of these children, often referred to as "Anak ng OFW" or "Children of OFW Parents." In this article, we will explore five key information from books that provide insights into the experiences of these children.

The Impact of Parental Absence on Children

According to a study published in the book "The Effects of Parental Migration on Children: Evidence from the Philippines" by the Asian Development Bank, the absence of a parent can have a significant impact on a child's emotional and psychological well-being. Children of OFW parents may experience feelings of abandonment, anxiety, and depression, which can affect their academic performance and social relationships.

The Role of Family Support in Mitigating the Effects of Parental Absence

A study published in the book "Supporting Children of OFW Parents: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators" by the University of the Philippines highlights the importance of family support in mitigating the effects of parental absence. The study found that children who received emotional support from their caregivers and relatives were less likely to experience negative effects on their mental health and well-being.

The Challenges of Raising Children of OFW Parents

Raising children of OFW parents can be a challenging task, especially for caregivers who may not have the necessary skills and resources to provide adequate care. A book titled "Raising Children of OFW Parents: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators" by the Department of Social Welfare and Development provides practical tips and strategies for caregivers to support the development of these children.

The Importance of Education in Breaking the Cycle of Poverty

Education is a critical factor in breaking the cycle of poverty that many OFW families face. A study published in the book "The Impact of Education on the Lives of Children of OFW Parents" by the Philippine Business for Social Progress found that children who received education were more likely to secure better-paying jobs and improve their socio-economic status.

The Need for Policy Interventions to Support Children of OFW Parents

Finally, a book titled "Policy Interventions for Children of OFW Parents: A Review of Existing Literature" by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies highlights the need for policy interventions to support children of OFW parents. The book recommends that policymakers develop programs and services that address the unique needs of these children, such as providing access to education, healthcare, and social services.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the experiences of children of OFW parents are complex and multifaceted. While the absence of a parent can have negative effects on a child's well-being, family support, education, and policy interventions can play a critical role in mitigating these effects. By understanding the challenges and needs of these children, we can work towards creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for them to thrive.

Recommendations for Further Reading

For those interested in learning more about the experiences of children of OFW parents, the following books are highly recommended:

"The Effects of Parental Migration on Children: Evidence from the Philippines" by the Asian Development Bank
"Supporting Children of OFW Parents: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators" by the University of the Philippines
"Raising Children of OFW Parents: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators" by the Department of Social Welfare and Development
"The Impact of Education on the Lives of Children of OFW Parents" by the Philippine Business for Social Progress
"Policy Interventions for Children of OFW Parents: A Review of Existing Literature" by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies

References

Asian Development Bank. (2019). The Effects of Parental Migration on Children: Evidence from the Philippines.
University of the Philippines. (2018). Supporting Children of OFW Parents: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators.
Department of Social Welfare and Development. (2017). Raising Children of OFW Parents: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators.
Philippine Business for Social Progress. (2016). The Impact of Education on the Lives of Children of OFW Parents.
Philippine Institute for Development Studies. (2015). Policy Interventions for Children of OFW Parents: A Review of Existing Literature.
Frequently Asked Questions about Children of OFW Parents

As the phenomenon of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) continues to grow, many families are affected by the migration of one or both parents to work abroad. This situation raises concerns about the well-being and development of the children left behind, often referred to as "Anak ng OFW" or "Children of OFW Parents." In this article, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions about children of OFW parents.

Q: What are the effects of parental absence on children of OFW parents?

A: The absence of a parent can have a significant impact on a child's emotional and psychological well-being. Children of OFW parents may experience feelings of abandonment, anxiety, and depression, which can affect their academic performance and social relationships.

Q: How can caregivers support the development of children of OFW parents?

A: Caregivers can provide emotional support, ensure the child's basic needs are met, and create a stable and loving environment. They can also encourage the child to express their feelings and concerns, and provide guidance on how to cope with the situation.

Q: What are the challenges of raising children of OFW parents?

A: Raising children of OFW parents can be a challenging task, especially for caregivers who may not have the necessary skills and resources to provide adequate care. Caregivers may face difficulties in managing the child's behavior, providing emotional support, and ensuring the child's basic needs are met.

Q: How can education help break the cycle of poverty for children of OFW parents?

A: Education is a critical factor in breaking the cycle of poverty that many OFW families face. Children who receive education are more likely to secure better-paying jobs and improve their socio-economic status.

Q: What are the policy interventions that can support children of OFW parents?

A: Policymakers can develop programs and services that address the unique needs of children of OFW parents, such as providing access to education, healthcare, and social services. They can also establish support groups for caregivers and children, and provide resources for families to cope with the situation.

Q: How can families cope with the situation of having an OFW parent?

A: Families can cope with the situation by maintaining open communication, setting clear boundaries and expectations, and providing emotional support to each other. They can also seek help from support groups, counseling services, and other resources available to them.

Q: What are the long-term effects of parental absence on children of OFW parents?

A: The long-term effects of parental absence on children of OFW parents can be significant. Children may experience difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, may have lower self-esteem and confidence, and may struggle with academic and career success.

Q: How can caregivers and educators support the development of children of OFW parents in school?

A: Caregivers and educators can provide emotional support, ensure the child's basic needs are met, and create a stable and loving environment. They can also encourage the child to express their feelings and concerns, and provide guidance on how to cope with the situation.

Q: What are the resources available to support children of OFW parents?

A: There are various resources available to support children of OFW parents, including support groups, counseling services, and educational programs. Families can also seek help from government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community-based organizations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the experiences of children of OFW parents are complex and multifaceted. By understanding the challenges and needs of these children, we can work towards creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for them to thrive. We hope that this article has provided valuable information and insights for caregivers, educators, and policymakers who are working to support the development of children of OFW parents.

Recommendations for Further Reading

For those interested in learning more about the experiences of children of OFW parents, the following resources are highly recommended:

"The Effects of Parental Migration on Children: Evidence from the Philippines" by the Asian Development Bank
"Supporting Children of OFW Parents: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators" by the University of the Philippines
"Raising Children of OFW Parents: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators" by the Department of Social Welfare and Development
"The Impact of Education on the Lives of Children of OFW Parents" by the Philippine Business for Social Progress
"Policy Interventions for Children of OFW Parents: A Review of Existing Literature" by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies

References

Asian Development Bank. (2019). The Effects of Parental Migration on Children: Evidence from the Philippines.
University of the Philippines. (2018). Supporting Children of OFW Parents: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators.
Department of Social Welfare and Development. (2017). Raising Children of OFW Parents: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators.
Philippine Business for Social Progress. (2016). The Impact of Education on the Lives of Children of OFW Parents.
Philippine Institute for Development Studies. (2015). Policy Interventions for Children of OFW Parents: A Review of Existing Literature.