Buhay OFW

I thought my short stay in the Philippines would be some sort of a 'vacation' since technically, I'm leaving my work behind in Japan. On the contrary, my 2 weeks stay became much more stressful because of undergoing the tedious process of applying/registering government documents (POEA requirements)

During my first day at the POEA, I went there at about 5am just to secure a good queue spot fronting the gates. While squirming with other applicants hoping to be considered in the day's priority cutoff, a thought suddenly hit me noting that I am already one of those so-called OFWs. Even at 5am, the line was already long. Good for me that most of the applicants were seamen; who are classified under a different category for the daily cutoff. My application falls under the skilled/professional type.

I already have a medical certificate (taken before my 3 month business trip) but the POEA requires the checkup to be held at an accredited health unit. Thus, I have to undergo another round of medical test again. My BP rose up again and I waited for about 3 days to finally 'pass' the BP level. I really have to closely monitor my BP from now on.

To sum it up, on my first week, I have been reporting to our Philippine office. Even on a Saturday, I had to claim our passports at the agency and then on Monday the following week, started filing at the POEA. Finally finished the POEA process on friday, then supposed flight was Sunday. Thank God, it was extended to Wednesday.

Now I'm back here in Japan. Experiencing a post-sore throat phase. Going to start reporting to our client on the 25th. Happy Holidays!