Tacloban City - The Office of Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in Eastern Visayas has recognized two families as regional winners for the Model Overseas Filipino Workers Family of the Year Awards (MOFYA). The award ceremony, held on Wednesday, celebrated the achievements of these families who exemplify resilience and success in the OFW community.
According to Philippines News Agency, Helen Balerite from Leyte province and Rufo Demiao Jr. from Southern Leyte were chosen as the regional winners in the land-based and sea-based categories, respectively. According to OWWA Eastern Visayas, Balerite and Demiao will represent the region in the national MOFYA competition scheduled for next year. Balerite, who transitioned from being a nurse in Dubai to a food safety quality manager at renowned hotels, emphasizes the importance of financial management. She has successfully invested in various businesses, both in the Philippines and Dubai. Balerite's advice to fellow OFWs focuses on saving and spending wisely, a principle she has instilled in her children.
Demiao, with a career spanning over 30 years as a captain on a cruise ship, highlighted the significance of maintaining strong family relationships through constant communication. He believes that regular conversations with family members are crucial in building trust and keeping the familial bond strong despite physical distance.
OWWA Eastern Visayas Regional Director Mary Catherine Pastor expressed hope that the stories of Balerite and Demiao will inspire other overseas workers facing challenges in supporting their families. The region previously celebrated a MOFYA national winner, ship captain Manuel Gabornes from Lawaan, Eastern Samar, who won the award in 2012. MOFYA annually honors OFW families that demonstrate effective family management, resilience in overcoming challenges, and positive impact within their communities and society at large.