Wazzup Pilipinas!?
For many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), especially those in North America, the dream of constructing a grand house in the Philippines symbolizes success and a way to honor years of hard work abroad. However, this aspiration often leads to unintended consequences, leaving many to question whether the dream was worth the sacrifice.
The Story of Victoria
Consider the case of Victoria, a caregiver from Toronto. In her 30s, she left the Philippines to seek better opportunities. Over the years, she diligently sent money back home, aiming to build a two-story, six-bedroom house in Ilocos Sur—a place she envisioned retiring to after her years of service.
However, the reality was far from her dream. Her siblings moved into the house, enjoying its spacious rooms and cool breeze, while Victoria continued to live in a cramped apartment in Toronto. By the time she was ready to retire, nearly 20 years had passed. The house, once pristine, had deteriorated—paint had faded, furniture was worn, and cracks appeared in the walls. Tragically, Victoria, now in her 60s, was diagnosed with colon cancer and passed away before she could even visit her dream home.
Juan's Experience
Similarly, Juan, a warehouse supervisor in Vancouver, spent 12 years building a nine-bedroom house in Ilocos Sur. He planned to retire there with his family. Instead, his cousins moved in, held parties, and rented out rooms. Juan, neglecting his health to fund the house, was diagnosed with lung cancer at 55 and passed away without ever stepping foot in the home he built. His wife and children, who had no intention of returning to the Philippines, sold the property.
The Underlying Motivations
These stories highlight a common theme: the desire to build a home in the Philippines is often driven by pride and societal expectations. It's about showing family and friends that the years abroad have paid off. However, this pursuit can come at a significant personal cost.
The Reality of Retirement
When OFWs finally return home in their later years, the grand house they envisioned may become a burden. At 65 or 70, maintaining a large property can be overwhelming. The upkeep, repairs, and expenses associated with a sprawling estate can detract from the joy of retirement.
A Broader Perspective
The contrast between the retirement choices of Filipinos and those in North America is striking. In the West, retirees often downsize, choosing smaller, more manageable homes or retirement communities that offer a simpler lifestyle. Yet, many Filipinos continue to live modestly abroad while sending their savings back to build a grand house they may never enjoy.
A Call for Reflection
Life is unpredictable. While it's essential to plan for the future, it's equally important to live fully in the present. Instead of pouring all resources into a dream home in the Philippines, consider investing in experiences, health, and financial security that benefit both you and your family today.
As the saying goes, "A good home isn't about being big; it's about being happy with the people living in it." The true essence of home lies in the relationships we build and the memories we create, not the size of the house.
So, while it's tempting to dream of a mansion in the Philippines, don't lose sight of what's most important: living a fulfilling, balanced life wherever you are. Invest in living fully today. Pursue happiness, invest in your health, and build experiences that you can cherish with your loved ones—whether in the Philippines, abroad, or anywhere in between.
In the end, dreams should enhance our lives, not become burdens we may never even get to enjoy. Live wisely, live fully, and don't let your dreams turn into someone else's reality. The greatest success lies in living the life that brings you the most joy—not the life you think others expect of you.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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