There’s a reason why Filipinos work in Taiwan—and it’s more than just getting away or chasing higher pay. It’s about sacrifice, purpose, and hope for something better. But some days, I forget that. Especially when the loneliness creeps in or I miss the sound of tricycle horns and sari-sari stores calling my name. On those days, I go back to my why. Maybe you need that reminder too.
Here are five reasons not to forget why you’re here—why we’re here.
You Wanted a Brighter Future for Your Loved Ones
Let’s start with the most honest truth: many Filipinos work abroad to support their families.
That was me, too.
I had dreams of:
- Sending my siblings to college
- Fixing our old house in the province
- Giving my parents a chance to rest
Every extra shift, every budget meal I eat here, gets me closer to those goals. So even when I’m dead tired, I remind myself—it’s not just for me. It’s for them.
Tip:
Keep a photo of your family or dream goal in your wallet or phone lock screen. One glance can turn your whole day around.
You Craved Personal Growth Through Culture and Challenge
When I first landed in Taiwan, everything felt new.
I didn’t even know how to order lunch properly.
But then I started noticing things:
- The calm of tea ceremonies
- The buzz of night markets
- The kindness of strangers even when we didn’t speak the same language
Being here changed me. I’ve become more open, more aware, and honestly, stronger.
This isn’t just a job—it’s a life lesson. That’s the real reward of working overseas.
You Needed New Friends to Walk This Journey With
I thought being away from home meant I’d be alone. But Taiwan surprised me.
From shared dorm rooms to Sunday karaoke with fellow OFWs, I found something else: a second family. Some are Taiwanese. Some are Indonesian. Most are Filipino.
We may not speak the same first language, but we understand each other in other ways—through food, stories, and shared struggles.
Try this:
Organize a potluck or weekend hike with your new friends. Joy multiplies when it’s shared.
You Wanted to Build Skills for a Better Future
Not all growth is emotional. Some of it is practical.
Before coming here, I didn’t know how to:
- Use factory machines
- Speak basic Mandarin
- Handle my money without help
Now, I’ve learned so much that I can actually teach others. That’s why Filipinos work in Taiwan—we don’t just earn, we upskill.
These new skills? They’re not just for this job. They’re tools I’ll use for the rest of my life.
You Were Meant to Discover How Strong You Really Are
Back home, someone was always there to help. Here? I had to figure things out on my own.
I’ve learned to:
- Navigate the MRT system
- File my ARC paperwork
- Budget NT$100 for dinner and still feel full
I didn’t know I had this kind of strength until Taiwan pushed me to find it.
So when the homesickness hits, I remember:
I’m not just surviving—I’m becoming resilient.
Why Filipinos Work in Taiwan: Don’t Lose Sight of Your “Why”
No one said this journey would be easy. But we came here with a reason, and that reason still matters—even on the hardest days.
So if you’re feeling homesick or questioning everything, pause and reflect:
- What was your goal?
- Who are you doing this for?
- What kind of person are you becoming?
Let that answer carry you.
Because why Filipinos work in Taiwan isn’t just about economics. It’s about heart, purpose, and growth.
Frequently Asked Question
Q: What should I do when I feel homesick or unmotivated?
A: Go back to your why. Think about the goals you set before leaving the Philippines—whether it’s helping family, gaining skills, or personal growth. Talk to fellow OFWs, journal your experiences, or plan a video call home. Purpose keeps you grounded.
Q: How can I stay connected to my goals while working long hours?
A: Set small, monthly milestones that tie back to your bigger goals—like sending a set amount home or learning a new work skill. Track your wins in a notebook or phone app. Seeing your progress, even in small steps, reminds you that you’re still moving forward.
Q: What can I do to build a stronger support system in Taiwan?
A: Join local OFW groups, attend Filipino community events, or bond with coworkers over meals or weekend activities. Don’t be afraid to reach out. Having a support system helps you stay mentally strong, especially during tough seasons.
Final Thoughts
At the end of a long shift, when the noise fades and the ache sets in, it’s easy to forget why we left everything behind. But the truth is—you came here with a purpose. And that purpose still lives in every sacrifice you make, every call home, every silent prayer before bed.
Why Filipinos work in Taiwan goes beyond money.
It’s about building a better life—for your family, and for yourself.
It’s about becoming more than who you were when you left.
So when the days get hard (and they will), remember:
You’ve already come this far.
You’ve already proven your strength.
You’re not alone.
Let your why carry you forward.
Let your story be one of courage, growth, and unwavering hope.