How To Choose Another Career? Land-based or Sea-based OFW?

In 2010, a sense of discontentment began to grow within me, particularly concerning my financial situation. I was working as an Electronics Engineer at a semiconductor company in the Philippines at the time. This dissatisfaction ultimately became the catalyst for me to embark on a new career path. I made a commitment to myself to seek out a profession that would enable me to earn a substantial income, one that could not only support my parents (although they had never imposed this obligation on me, I felt a deep-seated desire to repay their sacrifices) but also provide the means to save for my own family’s future.

I realized that if I had remained in my position at the semiconductor company, progress would have been sluggish. Recognizing the urgency, I knew I had to take immediate action to stay on track and achieve my goals in a timely manner.

Therefore, I embarked on an extensive job search in the Philippines, seeking positions that aligned with my experience as an Electronics Engineer. While many of these opportunities did offer more competitive compensation than my previous role, it still fell short of the financial targets I had set for myself. This compelled me to expand my search and explore job prospects overseas, with the aim of becoming an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW). During that period, I discovered that the majority of opportunities were concentrated in the Middle East and various Asian regions.

While the compensation for overseas work was certainly attractive, it still fell short of my financial aspirations. I meticulously calculated my monthly expenses, factoring in costs such as food, housing, clothing, and other essentials, and I realized I could save twice as much as I could with my job in the Philippines. It seemed like a promising prospect, given the expenses involved. However, my enthusiasm waned when I discovered that the minimum contract length would be two years – a considerable stretch of time to be away from my loved ones. Some might argue that such sacrifices are the price of a higher salary, but I was determined to find an alternative. So, I delved deeper into my research, and it was during this journey that I stumbled upon the potential of pursuing a career as a seafarer.

Someone I knew well suggested that I explore a career in the maritime industry based on my prior work experiences. They emphasized that I should contemplate becoming an Electro-Technical Officer, as they believed I had the skills and capabilities for it. Fortunately, I was already a licensed Electronics Engineer at the time, which provided me with a significant advantage in pursuing this career path.

So why choose another career? In my case, as a seafarer. Here’s the list I mainly consider.

1.) Salary is very overwhelming compared to other jobs in the Philippines or abroad. What I can save on land in one year, I can save it in just three months at sea!

2.) Compared to land-based jobs abroad, sea-based working contracts are usually 6 to 9 months only. It’s great to know that every year I can still go home and spend time with my loved ones.

3.) Free travels abroad. The thought of being able to have a glance at other culture’s places is an added bonus to the job. I can now collect stamps on my passport for free!

4.) Free from taxes! That’s right, Filipino mariners or seafarers receive their salaries as a whole free from government tax.

5.) Opportunity to increase your position or rank. This may not be the same for others, but it gives me self-fulfillment when I’m trying to reach a certain position in a career. Aiming higher than what I have achieved fuels my passion and motivates me to perform better.

Well, my reasons for choosing a different career path may not align with those of others, but the underlying message remains clear: always chase your dreams, provided you do so with integrity and respect for others. Pursuing your aspirations is essential, as long as you do it in a considerate and ethical manner, ensuring that you don’t harm or offend others along the way.

Always remember that on your journey to reach your goals, it’s important to cultivate the habit of prayer and dedicate your dreams to the people you cherish. There will be moments when you may feel tempted to revert to your old, more comfortable ways, thinking it’s safer. However, I urge you to keep your loved ones in mind; they can be your greatest source of motivation. This approach has proven effective for me, and I believe it will work for you as well. Best of luck on your journey!

If you find this ideas useful, please drop a comment below. You may also share your own experiences on how to choose another career.

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