What are you looking for?

5 reasons why OEC must be abolished

Ion
-
1
5 reasons why OEC must be abolished

Overseas Employment Certificate or OEC is that piece of paper that every employed Filipino abroad must obtain to be able to travel to and from the Philippines (in addition to getting travel tax exemptions). But ever since it was implemented, it has presented more frustrations than benefits.

Here are 5 key reasons why I think OEC must be scrapped.

1. Our working visas should be enough to validate our employment

You don’t need to see our contracts for verification because contracts are supposedly confidential. we don’t need a paper with only 60-days validity as an honor certificate.

2. You have no technology (and the right people) capable of serving the public

Your website is poorly designed; appointment booking is poor; data verification is inaccurate. you don’t even accept card or digital payments.

3. We need proper assistance more than a mere ‘certificate’

One time, I sought advice about an employment dispute, but what I got from POLO-OWWA was, “wala tayong magagawa dyan.” Despite being told that way, I pursued the case and won.

Meron palang magagawa.

4. The value we get by being registered with POEA or OWWA is unclear, maybe nothing

There are still a lot of abuses happening to documented workers, and it’s very difficult to report unfortunate incidents.

When we have employee rights issues or salary delays, you rarely come to our aid.

5. Travel tax exemption doesn’t save us much money actually

  • AED92 – OWWA membership
  • AED10 – OEC processing fee
  • AED40 – Contract verification (if needed)
  • AED25 – Roundtrip transport (minimum)

Travel Tax exemption is only PHP1,650* (AED116)

* Your traveling dependents pay 50% of travel tax

Here’s what the public have to say on Facebook:

While the intention is good, unfortunately, it has been inefficient. Therefore, I am joining the call to abolish this system.

Open letter to POLO-OWWA Dubai: Suspend the contract verification and OEC now

Ion
-
1
Open letter to POLO-OWWA Dubai: Suspend the contract verification and OEC now

Dear POLO-OWWA,

A lot of people have tagged me about their recent experiences in getting OECs. I was at the Consulate last week and saw it myself too.

  • People are coming to your office as early as midnight just to ensure they could get in when you open at 8 in the morning.
  • They had to sleep seated by the pavement (or sand)
  • People take leave from work to endure 4-5 hours in a long queue under the heat of the sun.
  • People spend money traveling from as far as Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah only to get cut off.

PAGOD. PUYAT. PERA. TIIS GUTOM.

I thought we already have a plan to completely abolish OEC? Whatever happened to the idea to build a database for OFWs so we can completely get rid of this useless requirement?

If you cannot provide a good customer experience or at least improve the processing of contract verification and OEC, please scrap this. NOW.

Isn’t it ironic to preach you care for OFWs welfare yet you let us burn under the heat of the sun? Isn’t it ironic to ask us to respect the policies, yet you do not respect our time?

You know that Dubai and the Northern Emirates have a growing population of OFWs. Why has there been no upgrade made in recent years? When the pandemic happened, everybody shifted to digital yet POLO-OWWA, your processes and your website remains medieval

Many of us already find it difficult to take a holiday break from work, and your useless requirement just adds up to the woes. I always wonder why our own “welfare” agency makes it even harder for us to travel back to OUR HOME COUNTRY.

I may have a small voice but may I please again suggest that you consider the following suggestions:

1. WORK 24/7

Work smart. Hire more staff on a shifting basis. It’s not a new idea anymore. If there’s high demand then rotate your people. Be proactive. If we can endure coming in the wee hours of the night, what’s preventing you from having longer office hours?

2. EXPAND THE OFFICE

What makes you believe that you can serve hundreds of thousands of OFWs in a small room in a villa? Allocate funds to invest in satellite offices. 

3. REVAMP THE WEBSITE

Obviously, it’s long overdue. We’re in the metaverse era now yet you can’t even provide a simple appointment system that really works. As a UX design consultant, talk to me about revamping the website to make it useful and improve the experience of the people – online and offline. Or better yet, build an app – you have all the reasons to invest in it.

4. DIGITALIZE EVERYTHING

I wonder what happened to the millions of photocopies that you have received from all of us over the years? Everyone has emails. We know how to use QR codes. We use WhatsApp more than ever. The pandemic has educated us to embrace digital. What’s holding us back?

Allow people to do these on various digital channels.

5. TRAIN OR HIRE MORE COMPETENT PEOPLE WITH GOOD CUSTOMER SERVICE SKILLS

While I understand that their work could also be stressful, a little show of empathy would allow them to understand what the people in the queue are going through. Having rude staff just adds up to the already stressed OFWs.

And, I repeat myself, if these measures cannot be done, please suspend, if not totally scrap, this useless requirement.

It’s not rocket science to realize that these suggestions could and should be done. Please read your agency name again… “Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.” WELFARE. CARE.

(Up next: the new mandatory insurance requirements..)

Photo from Jan Michael T

Why I am voting for Leni Robredo

Ion
-
0
Why I am voting for Leni Robredo

A lot had advised me to refrain from posting politics on my page for worries that it may give me some “bad image.” I really appreciate the concern, but my conviction is stronger than my worries – that I care less about whatever ‘bad image’ this may bring me anymore. I would be more at peace if I could share a few thoughts on how I came up with my choice of president, using my platform.

They say, “Kahit sinong presidente pa ang maupo, nakasalalay naman sa ‘yo ang pag-asenso mo.” While this is so true, this also sounds like an excuse for just being ‘cool’ even if the best candidate won’t get the seat. It’s more like a careless whisper, rather than being a good sport. 

I am not a ‘fanatic’, but I admire Leni Robredo because of her…

  • – Good track record on governance
  • – Tireless disaster & COVID-19 response amidst criticism
  • – Action-oriented service
  • – Highest audit rating for 3 years (for her office)
  • – ISO-certification for quality management, says a lot about her leadership
  • – Pro-livelihood programs from the ground up
  • – Modest lifestyle, very relatable to most Filipinos
  • – Family-centric values 

Just some of the reasons why she is my MVP.

There’s a ton of information already on VP Leni’s winning credentials. Yet people will always have something to say about such data and unblemished track records. Fake news try to invalidate them. So when information becomes overwhelming and you’re struggling to figure out what’s real and what’s not, just go back to your values.

Your values are your non-negotiable. And that’s the best gauge when discerning who to vote for.

Why values?

If you are still thinking about who to vote for, I’d like to encourage you to choose a candidate aligned with your values. Simply choose SOMEONE LIKE YOU. If you are honest, considerate, empathetic, or strategic, then choose the one whose track record aligns with these values. Now, if you hate poor public service, corruption, arrogance, apathy, excessive lifestyle… what reasons would you have in choosing a candidate who has evidence of doing such things (or has been involved with such)?

With VP Leni, I am choosing a leader that presents more benefits than risks. I want to see a role model up there; to finally see a Philippine president become a global benchmark for the right reasons. Someone who talks with substance (albeit being criticized); someone who has proven she can walk the talk.

The Philippine Constitution says that the president should be:

  • – Maka-Diyos (God-fearing)
  • – Makatao (humane)
  • – Makabansa (nationalistic)
  • – Makakalikasan (pro-environment)

For me, VP Leni rightly embodies those points. That’s why she is my MVP – Most ‘Values-driven’ President – who I believe can lead the way so Filipinos can also lead their own ways.

Some of you may have picked another candidate already, but if you have not considered pondering about these things yet, please re-think your vote. Intentionally pray for it. Take it from your values within.

Yes, I believe in pink. Of all the color choices right now, pink gives me a better hope for the country. Leni Robredo is the leader that the country needs today. 

Let’s win it for the Philippines. Ipanalo na10 ‘to!

How running in Dubai has transformed my mind

Ion
-
0
How running in Dubai has transformed my mind

For me, running is the perfect metaphor for life. I’ve done a lot of sports but running presents the most identical situation to life. Unlike other sports, running is something fundamental that I believe everyone can do it.

You don’t get substituted in a marathon. You play all of it.

The difficult sprints align very well with the difficult stretches in life. How you manage and deal with the challenges on the track tells so much about how you’re going to finish (or not) the race. It’s more mental than physical. It presents opportunities to strategize – even before it begins. Preparation matters. You need to be aware of the level of difficulty – the terrain, elevation, and even the weather. You cannot just assume that you can do well without proper training.

Pacing matters too. You have to know which part you will slow down, which part you will give your all. Most importantly, it reminds you WHO to rely on for strength, especially during tougher times.

As for me, I pray to God before, during, and after the run as I believe I can only do these things through the strength coming from Jesus.

So you see… in running, the real goal is to feel better about yourself – your well-being, your mental state. Getting fit physically is just a by-product of it.

Meetup and jamming with Ben&Ben in Dubai

Ion
-
0
Meetup and jamming with Ben&Ben in Dubai

Ben&Ben met with our group over lunch at Off the Hook Seafood Restaurant in Ibn Battuta Mall, a few days after their concert in Dubai.

We talked about their Expo Dubai concert, their music, their amazing engagement with fans, the things they love about Dubai, and a lot more.

Here’s the vlog”

We have to restart somewhere

Ion
-
0
We have to restart somewhere

In this comeback run, I finished LAST.

  • 28th out of 28 who ran 10K
  • 7th out of 7 runners in my age bracket (30-39 years old)

I finished the run in 1 hour 15 minutes 21 seconds.

The average 10K finish for my age is within 54-56 minutes.

But I have to give myself some grace since this is my first 10K in 7 years. I gave myself 1 hour and 30 minutes to finish so this result still surprised me.

I’m sharing this as another point of accountability.

We all have to start somewhere; or rather, we all have to RESTART somewhere.

Ben&Ben brought one of the largest concert crowds in Expo 2020 Dubai

Ion
-
0
Ben&Ben brought one of the largest concert crowds in Expo 2020 Dubai

Maybe the night was great. No, it was epic!

Pagtingin pa lang sa crowd, nakaka-lunod na. Tila kathang isip ang hiwaga ng gabi. Di alintanang walang upuan, dahil sabik na nag-aabang sa pasalubong ninyong tangan.

Every second was worth it. Half-day leave, di ka sayang talaga! Kahit araw-araw tayong magkatagpo, hanggang sa susunod na habang buhay… Dadalhin ang pangakong, all will be alright in time.

But why does it feel like comets when it’s over? Oh dear, it’s still an awesome ride home after the show, ain’t it?

Truly they made it with us.

Hangover

That was just me and my hangover.

As they say, music can literally patch up the holes in your heart. But Ben&Ben did more than just that last night.

16,000 Liwanag – that’s SIXTEEN THOUSAND strong fans! One of the largest turnout at the Jubilee stage in Expo.

90 minutes of golden music.

9-piece nuggets.

Countless ‘thank yous’ and ‘maraming, maraming salamat.’

A jubilation at Jubilee

It’s been 2 years since Ben&Ben performed in front of a massive crowd, and they can’t help but express in between songs how grateful they are for the opportunity to do it again; And for Expo 2020 Dubai for being that incredible avenue to do it, to feel the crowd, to see the magic of it, or should I say, the hiwaga.

Droves came from all over the 7 emirates. Gen-X, Y and Zs. Some came straight outta work, while others took one-day off (or should I say, “Ben&Ben leaves”). Others brought the whole fam, kids playing around, some lying on the ground, and dads carrying the little ones on the shoulders while jamming.

Four years ago, when they first came to Dubai, I asked them how surprised they were that the crowd was singing along all throughout the show – they were just starting to soar back then, and Spotify wasn’t a thing yet. Fast forward to today, I felt stupid for asking that question. I mean, being named as the Most Streamed Philippine Artist for 2021, and recently Best Asian Band, speaks volumes.

With this kind of craft, and their meaningful inward and outward impact on emotions and mental health, this band will reach the galaxies. In addition to the quadruple-platinum surprise they were given last night, can we give them the National Artist award already?

The fireworks brought tears

And… How more fitting could it be, when you’ve just got handed 4x platinum award, on to your finale, the Expo fireworks popped up the sky as if inviting everyone to jump higher in jubilant celebration. Mahiwagang mahiwaga!

Here’s last night’s playlist in order of performance

14 songs inside 1.5 hours including a couple of new songs that debuted in Dubai.

  1. Pagtingin
  2. Maybe The Night
  3. Lunod
  4. Pasalubong
  5. Dear (debut)
  6. Upuan
  7. Make It With You
  8. Di Ka Sayang
  9. Sa Susunod na Habang Buhay
  10. Leaves
  11. Comets (debut)
  12. Kathang Isip
  13. Ride Home
  14. Araw-araw – encore

If you want to relive the experience, you can watch the full show here: https://virtualexpodubai.com/listen-watch/events/ben-and-ben

Agnes, Andrew, Jam, Kiefer, Miguel, Pat, Paolo, Poch, and Toni, you were thanking us a million times last night, but we really thank you for constantly giving us reasons to celebrate. Our hearts – whether mending or joyful – is always full and shining with Liwanag.

Photo from @benandbenmusic

Is the name of your school important to find a job in Dubai?

Ion
-
0
Is the name of your school important to find a job in Dubai?

“Can I find a decent job in a good company even if I graduated from a lesser-known school?

— That was me doubting about my chances when I came to Dubai… 

In the Philippines, if you are from a prestigious university, you have a great advantage over the graduates from smaller schools. You may agree or disagree with me, but that was the culture I experienced during my job hunting days. Sometimes it’s unfair, but at times it also makes sense.

Here in UAE though, employers care less about the university name (at least in my line of work – the digital and creative).

Companies are more interested in your experience and what you can bring to the organization. School name is the least of the employers’ concerns. I mean, not too many of them are aware of the reputation of Ateneo, La Salle, or UP, or the University of Whatsoever, right?

Don’t get me wrong. There are HR who go the extra mile to do background checks – especially if you’re up for bigger roles. But as an entry to a job, the name of your school is not a ticket. Oftentimes, background research is done to check on your character.

Because what matters more for employers here is your education, not your school name. 

–

Top photo from unsplash

OFWs are breadwinners but some family members want the bakery

Ion
-
2
OFWs are breadwinners but some family members want the bakery

An OFW once shared with me these stories:

  • A brother asking for extra money for a “business”
  • A cousin asking money for her niece’ birthday bash

The OFW asked me, “Is it an act of humility to provide for these requests, even if it’s hard to do so?”

Maybe.

But at the same time, giving in to these non-important requests is sending a wrong message. They would think that it’s okay and won’t feel that money is a problem for you. Sooner or later it will become a habit.

So how to deal with it? Two things: TS (“Ti-is”)

T for Tough love

If you are married with kids, your spouse and your own children are your priority. It is not your role to provide for the wants, and even the needs of your relatives. But, as embedded on our culture, we do this out of love.

But giving is not the only way to show love.

Say no. Not giving them everything doesn’t mean you love them less. Loving does not mean you give all they want. You wake them up from the toxic mentality. You need to let them realize that you have a family of your own to feed. If they feel bad, take it, even if it pinches your heart too. That’s the only way to help them stand on their own feet. That’s what TOUGH LOVE means – you teach them how to become responsible.

S for Self care

OFWs often neglect caring for themselves because they are too busy taking care also of the extended family – ate, kuya, kapatid, pinsan, pamangkin, tito and tita, etc. 

Kumusta naman ang sarili mong pangarap?

We don’t realize, as we work diligently abroad, we could already be in a position to reach our dreams. But when giving becomes an obligation, we deprive ourselves of that opportunity to work on our personal goals. Because the finances that we could have invested in ourselves go to the family back home instead.

Giving is a noble act, a very selfless gesture – especially when done with joy and a cheerful heart. But if it’s becoming a burden and not out of the overflow of the heart anymore, we have a problem. 

Don’t wait for the day that what’s left on your plate are just breadcrumbs because you gave them your bakery.

I almost backed out from my first obstacle course race in Dubai

Ion
-
0
I almost backed out from my first obstacle course race in Dubai

I had a grueling schedule last week with a rare 3 late nights that took a toll on me. I was not able to work out and prepare very well for this race. Then back spasm hit me midweek until the day before the race. I thought I wouldn’t make it. (I thought about asking for a refund already.)

But what I lack in physical, I did in the mental and spiritual. I used the months of constant running as my motivation that I have enough to at least finish the course. Praise God, with prayer and meditation, I was able to condition the mind.

The obstacle challenges

But it’s NEVER EASY. I went through thirty-three obstacles that test your endurance, agility, physical strength, mental stamina – including challenges that were built to test the toughest 4WD vehicles. Throughout the 6K course around XQuarry, we navigated through rocky terrain and up and down the steep climbs. We moved rocks, scaled boulders, trudged through a mud pit, and moved swiftly through a barrage of obstacles.

Thee 32 (33 actually) obstacle challenges at XQuarry Adventure

I found myself walking after those hikes, catching my breath and thirsting for water. This was different. What was I thinking for signing up? One voice tells me to give up I cannot do it, but a sound mind encourages me that I trained enough for this and I can make it.

So I keep going, with good pacing and mindfulness that I’m not stretching it too much.

And yes indeed we did! Though not too fast, it was the best finish I ever had. My first OCR in the books.

The feeling of finishing this tough one transforms the mind that yes indeed, similar to life’s toughest challenges – with the right motivation and reliance on God-given strength, we can make it through. Definitely, a lot more takeaways from this activity (I’ll make a vlog soon)

As they say, if it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.

Thank God I defeated the voice of discouragement because I felt much much better after crossing the finish line. Except for small knee bruises, everything went well.

Here are some other photos from the Gladiator Challenge:

1...101112...80Page 11 of 80

About

  • About Boy Dubai
  • Blog
  • Questions
  • Forums

Essentials

  • Dubai FAQ
  • Money Matters
  • Living Wisely

Social