The longing for home

THE Filipino diaspora has long been characterized by the resilience and determination of our overseas workers. While these global citizens boost the economies of their host countries, the desire to reunite with family and return home to the Philippines often looms large.

In a recent survey conducted by recruiter Robert Walters, it was revealed that an increasing number of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) want to return to the Philippines within the next five years. Fully 62 percent of them intend to do so.

This figure represents a rise from 2021 when 54 percent of respondents were thinking of coming back to the country. The survey covered 120 overseas professionals across various industries: banking and finance, information and communication technology, consumer and retail, manufacturing, digital, and e-commerce.

While the desire to return home is increasing, concerns about the difference in compensation and benefits, as well as a perceived lower standard of living in the Philippines, lead some professionals to hesitate about coming home.

Why the reverse movement from the land of milk and honey to the old homeland?

The desire is driven by wanting to be closer to aging parents and family (56 percent) and a strong emotional, social and cultural connection to the Philippines (44 percent). Additionally, 65 percent consider the country's economic situation when deciding to return.

On the other hand, 30 percent don't want to return because of economic stability, with 38 percent expressing reluctance due to economic concerns. Fully 80 percent think that the economy is more stable overseas.

Factors like a more favorable salary-to-cost-of-living ratio abroad (60 percent) and better government initiatives and incentives in foreign countries (47 percent) contribute to the hesitation.

Salaries in the Philippines remain a significant concern, with 75 percent emphasizing differences in compensation and benefits. Over half (56 percent) highlight the lower standard of living conditions as another barrier.

Robert Walters Philippines Director Alejandro Perez-Higuero sees the growing number of overseas professionals returning as an opportunity for local employers.

These returning