Forty-year old Ezekiel or Kiel of Hilongos, Leyte provided numerous reasons when asked why he decided to leave the Philippines. Aside from the common reasons like poverty, unemployment, and low salary, Kiel also cited the lack of benefits for employees and the greedy and abusive government leaders. Kiel also craves for a stable job that will open new adventures and opportunities for growth and learning.

He is presently employed as Electronics and Computer Technician in Saline Water Conversion Corporation, Khobar Plant. Kiel got his current job through a job advertisement posted by EDI Staff Builder Agency. According to Kiel, EDI is one of the best placement agencies where hired applicants are secured and confident that they will pay no placement fee. He further added that people from EDI are proficient and accommodating.

While many OFWs shun the idea of having to comply with Saudi’s rigid rule, Ezekiel find it favorable. He praised the safety first policy implemented in his current job. For him, Saudi Arabia is a great country with a strong economy. The tough justice system kept expatriates disciplined and ensure that they abide by the law at all times.

He finds life in Saudi easy and enjoyable as almost everything is cheap and readily available. Kiel said, “Dito sa Saudi araw araw puwede kumain ng fried chicken at mga mamahaling prutas at gulay.”

People can easily avail of a nice car and with Saudi’s modern roads and highways, traveling from Riyadh to Khobar takes only three hours. He also added that Saudi people are friendly and religious.

Like most OFWs, Kiel misses his family in the Philippines very much. He also misses going to the bars and the local wine Tuba.

Like his reason for working overseas, Kiel also has lengthy and insightful message for all OFws out there. Kiel says, “Do all the saving that you can while you are still earning. Don’t waste money, instead start investing by availing of a house and lot for your own family.”

He also recommends helping younger siblings get a college education. Avoiding harmful vices like smoking and drinking is also a must. He also said that OFWS should voice out their complains to the Philippine government so as to encourage reforms and share whatever valuable knowledge they have to other OFWs. Finally he said, "Don’t forget the various duties, to God, to the country, and especially to your family."

If you want to contact Ezekiel, you can send him an email him at: ezekiel.580bc@gmail.com