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THE ISSUES AND CONCERNS OF SELECTED FILIPINO HEALTH

WORKERS OVERSEAS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Paril, Jhanamarie
STEM 12, Student of Senior High School,
St. Rose of Lima Montessori School, Teresa, Rizal

Abstract: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has put health workers from around the world in an
unprecedented situation, which have set them to the ultimate test of mitigating the spread of the deadly
virus. The purpose of this study is to communicate the predicament of the selected overseas Filipino health
workers regarding the circumstances they are entailed to. This study scrutinized the issues and concerns of
the selected Filipino health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic to identify these health workers’; (1)
issues and concerns while working during the pandemic; (2) working conditions before and during the
pandemic; (3) ways in handling their issues and concerns; and (4) own support system in facing the
problems of the current pandemic. Main themes emerged in the issues and concerns are extreme pressure,
prejudice/discrimination, job burnout, insufficient pay, facilities’ lack of staff, facilities’ inadequate supply
of PPE and ventilators, demands of patients, and being away from family. Fear of the virus, unsafe
environment, exhaustion, and stricter rules and protocols are the themes that occurred in the working
conditions then and now. While the themes that transpired in how they handle the issues and concerns are
focus on work, practice health precautions, and healthy lifestyle. And, family, working with colleagues,
prayers/positive thinking, and sword duty to serve people are the themes that emerged in their support
system in facing the problems of the pandemic. The findings of the study suggest that there are numerous
issues and concerns of the selected Filipino health workers overseas during the COVID-19 pandemic. It
can be inferred that these overseas Filipino health workers experienced a drastic change in their working
conditions then and now. It also manifested how they handle the issues and concerns brought by the
COVID-19 pandemic professionally and appropriately. Furthermore, these selected overseas Filipino
health workers have greatly expressed what supports them in facing their issues and concerns due to the
current pandemic.

Keywords: Concerns, COVID-19 Pandemic, Issues, Overseas Filipino Health Workers, Working
Conditions

INTRODUCTION receive, they remain exposed to many risks

(Wille, 2020).
Since the outbreak of the coronavirus
disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, health According to an article by Greenberg, et
workers from around the world have been facing al. (2020), the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to
a lot of challenges as they are put to the ultimate put healthcare professionals across the world in
test and are under tremendous pressure to limit an unprecedented situation, having to make
the spread of the COVID-19. The health workers impossible decisions and work under extreme
have been effortlessly putting their lives on the pressures. These decisions may include how to
line to save the lives of many. COVID-19 has allocate scant resources to equally needy patients,
shifted the important work carried out by health how to balance their own physical and mental
professionals to the forefront of all of our minds. healthcare needs with those patients, how to align
Yet, despite the applause these workers often their desire and duty to patients with those to
family and friends, and how to provide care for
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all severely unwell patients with constrained or equipment needed to care for critically ill patients,
inadequate resources. including ventilators and personal protective
equipment (PPE) for medical staff. In Italy,
Gilbert Gaviola (2020) discussed that it is
healthcare workers experienced high rates of
in a situation like this, however, that the
infection and death partly because of inadequate
quintessential, larger than life role of medical
access to PPE. The shortages have multiple
professionals, frontliners, including Filipino
causes, including problems with the global supply
physicians and nurses, overseas are highlighted,
chain.
made more manifest amid the most trying times.
Committed Filipino healthcare heroes continue to The forgotten front line, the nursing
serve in different corners of the globe in spite of home workers, expressed that they face
the corresponding sacrifices and challenges the retaliation for reporting COVID-19 risks. Long
pandemic has brought upon humankind. before nursing homes became a breeding ground
for the coronavirus, workers faced low wages,
Health workers have become as hate
strenuous conditions, communication
crimes targets during COVID-19 outbreak in the
breakdowns, and staffing shortages. But the virus
Americas. The pandemic establishes a massive
has now turned these challenges into a full-blown
crisis that triggers fears and anxieties, which
crisis for these workers in Chicago — the
often includes someone to blame. Healthcare
majority of whom are women and people of color
workers have become indirect scapegoating
— who have suddenly found themselves on the
targets. People seem to judge the health worker’s
front lines of the pandemic, with limited
sanitary based on their uniform. Educational
protection and outside oversight. A researcher
advocacy efforts should not just focus on basic
explained that direct care workers are already
hygiene measures for the people, but also on
living paycheck to paycheck and now they are
disproving false beliefs that contribute to the fear-
being asked to put their lives on the line for $13
induced construction of the health workers as a
an hour. Some nursing home administrators have
threat of transmission (Orellana, 2020).
sounded the alarm about the lack of protections
In a study by Talaee, Varahram, et al. and have been candid about the outbreaks and
(2020), there has also been stress and burnout in shortages at their workplaces. But at other
health care workers during the COVID-19 facilities, several workers who spoke to NBC
pandemic. A primary challenge in the COVID-19 News say their management has been
pandemic has been to take care of infected unresponsive to their concerns (Khimm, 2020).
patients, which defines a serious risk to the
The need to conduct this study is that
workers at intensive care units (ICUs) because of
despite the recognition given to the health
the need for constant contact with infected
workers, specifically Filipino health workers,
patients for extended periods. It has also been
they still experience challenges and difficulties. It
shown that they continue to undergo the job
will show the difference of their work before and
burnout, mental pressure, anxiety, and depression
during the COVID-19. It will also support them
symptoms even upon the mitigation of the
in a manner of bringing light to the factors that
outbreak. They are very often susceptible to job
result in the issues and concerns of Filipino health
burnout, with the highest levels of job burnout
workers overseas. Moreover, how some have
reported among healthcare workers working in
been handling the circumstances of the current
the emergency and ICU environment where they
pandemic. A physically and mentally healthy and
are exposed to an overwhelming amount of job-
well-equipped healthcare workforce is vital to a
related stress.
country’s capability to manage COVID-19 cases
Ranney, et al. (2020) stated that U.S. effectively. People should realize that our
hospitals are already reporting shortages of key present-day “heroes” are also humans just like
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any other and that they have their personal life and appreciating how they handle the laborious
outside the hospital facilities, and they face situations are to be given importance too. The
problems, too. The only difference is that they are objective of this study is to support Filipino
frontliners whose duty is to limit the spread of the health workers overseas in facing the challenges
COVID-19 as it is the work entitled to their of the current pandemic by documenting the
“heroic” job. This study will be of great help in experiences of selected Filipino health workers
sharing awareness about the risks and situations overseas. And through this paper, communicating
the Filipino health workers overseas are their predicament across the globe as an approach
conquering during this pandemic. Knowing what in easing and aiding their plight may somehow
the challenges they are combating can make make their condition overseas and feelings
people empathize with their situation and be more validated. In my perspective, the world needs to
considerate towards them. Even if one cannot understand that health workers, for this study,
help the Filipino health workers in saving lives, Filipino health workers, who are risking their
in a way, people should at least help by taking own health and safety to save lives and mitigate
part in communicating their plight to the world the spread of the COVID-19, also have their life
amidst this COVID-19. outside the hospital facilities. Furthermore, some
consequences of the pandemic might be
The decision to pursue this study is not
irrecoverable for the Filipino health workers
only because it is timely and relevant to the
overseas.
world’s on-going situation, but also to spread
awareness of what issues and concerns the
Filipino health workers are experiencing during
the COVID-19 pandemic. Even with the RESEARCH PROBLEM
acknowledgement of their heroic work around the The study aimed to discover the issues
world, they are still facing a lot of risks and and concerns of selected Filipino health workers
dangers as they continue to work under extreme during the COVID-19 pandemic.
pressure of mitigating the spread of the current
virus. Addressing their issues and concerns such Particularly, it seeks to answer the
as discrimination or prejudice, burnout, poor following questions respectively:
salary, insufficient workers, inadequate PPE,
1. What are the issues and concerns of some
safety, risk of getting infected, and extreme
selected Filipino health workers overseas
pressure can be of great aid in making people
during the COVID-19 pandemic?
grasp what other situations these Filipino health
2. What is the difference of accomplishing
workers are battling besides putting their life on
their work before and during the
the line to save the lives of many. Although words
pandemic?
of appreciation to these Filipino health workers
3. How do they handle the issues and
overseas are great, they also need attention in
concerns brought by the COVID-19
terms of attending and accompanying them in
pandemic?
their own issues and concerns in the midst of this
4. What can one do to support them in
battle with an invisible enemy.
facing the issues of the current pandemic?
This study aims to discover the issues and
concerns of some Filipino health workers
overseas during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also LITERATURE REVIEW
seeks to answer the difference of accomplishing
their work before the pandemic and during these The article “Overseas Filipino healthcare
challenging and trying times. Determining the warriors in the time of COVID-19: For family and
factors that trigger and cause their difficulties, humanity” by Gilbert Gaviola (2020) enunciate
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that their news company reached out to a handful and a serious weakening of the health service
of dedicated Filipino healthcare warriors serving provided. Mental health risks are further
in different countries across the globe to report exacerbated by reported shortages of protective
their sacrifices and challenges and what makes equipment for healthcare workers in many parts
them embrace, with a willing heart, the trials, of the world. There is an urgent need for measures
difficulties and fears and what they do to deserve to maintain the mental health of healthcare
being embraced back by a grateful society, a workers in such stressful situations.
grateful world. From a few doctors and nurses,
According to McGarry, et al. (2020) in
they shared the challenges as health workers
the article “Severe Staffing And Personal
working overseas. Being away from their family
Protective Equipment Shortages Faced by
and living on their own in these challenging times
Nursing Homes During The COVID-19
get them out of focus as one cannot completely
Pandemic”, the COVID-19 pandemic continues
concentrate on their work while thinking of their
to devastate US nursing homes. Adequate
family’s well-being in their country. They were
personal protective equipment (PPE) and staffing
also afraid for their own health and safety that if
levels are critical to protect nursing home
one gets infected, or worst die from the disease,
residents and staff. Despite the importance of
they will die alone away from their loved ones.
these basic measures, few national data are
Discrimination is also one of the difficulties and
available concerning the state of nursing homes
fears they are facing as some Filipinos are
with respect to these resources. They found that
harassed outside the workplace because of the
more than one in five nursing homes reports a
fact that they are Asians and racially abused as the
severe shortage of PPE and any shortage of staff,
virus originated from Asia. Despite all these
as well as those serving more Medicaid recipients
challenges, the thought of their families and home,
and those with lower quality scores, were more
being part of the solution in this pandemic and
likely to report shortages. Policies aimed at
looking out after, not just the patients but also,
providing resources to obtain additional direct
their colleagues, have been making them feel the
care staff and PPE for these vulnerable nursing
strength of camaraderie at work, and that will
homes, particularly in areas with rising
keep them driven and fueled to continue to work
community COVID-19 case rates, are needed to
and offer help.
reduce the national COVID-19 death toll.
As pointed out by Malcolm Sim (2020),
In the study “The Lived Experiences of
there are major risks to healthcare and other
Filipino Front Liners During COVID-19
workers on the frontline due to the COVID-19
Outbreak” by Nicomendez, et al. (2020), they
pandemic. Those workers involved in healthcare
explored the lived experiences of seven (7)
are at the front line in terms of risk of infection
Filipino workers who continued to report to work
and death, as has been the case during many
after the announcement of Enhanced Community
previous infectious disease epidemics. Apart
Quarantine all throughout Luzon. Frontliners
from the direct infection risks, healthcare workers
include medical professionals, media, business
are also under increasing stress and mental health
processing outsourcing and military personnel.
risks, as was the case with the SARS epidemic.
One-on-one interviews were done by phone due
The number of infected and severely ill patients
to the mandated physical distancing scheme and
is escalating as well as the number of exposed
Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ)
healthcare workers who are under self-quarantine,
limitations on physical contact. The narratives of
either because they have been infected with
the respondents were analyzed using
COVID-19 or have been in contact with a case.
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.
This is leading to a much greater workload and
Results show the process of adjustment of
stress for those left in the healthcare workforce
Filipino frontliners to the new work conditions as
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a consequence of this COVID-19 pandemic crisis. mental health of staff as well as identify those
Major themes are as follows: Awareness, Initial who do experience psychological injuries, to
Reaction (Fear of Spread and Worry), ensure they are provided with appropriate
Announcement, Problem (Transportation and evidence-based support or care.
Survival), Subsequent Reaction (Dysphoria and
In a Manila Bulletin article “COVID-19
Government Blaming), Adjustment (Work
wreaks havoc on healthcare workers’ mental
Condition), Realization (Work Commitment,
health” by Gabriela Baron (2020),
Compliance, Health Consciousness), and
MentalHealthPH stated that mental health
Positivism.
problems such as anxiety, depression, and
Neil Greenberg (2020) in an article burnout are common among healthcare workers
“Mental health of health-care workers in the in this time of pandemic. Some psychologists
COVID-19 era”, Health-care workers involved in expressed that stress, toxic cultural environment,
the response to the COVID-19 pandemic are limited number of workforce, poor job design that
often required to work in highly challenging leads to overwork, lack of hazard pay, extended
conditions and may therefore be at increased risk work hours, exposure to massive deaths, and fear
of experiencing mental health problems. of contracting the disease are causing mental
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, many health problems to healthcare workers (HCWs).
health-care workers (HCWs) have worked They added that aside from exposure to stressful
extremely long hours in high-pressure situation, HCWs are also experiencing an
environments. Additionally, they may have been increase in the number of deaths of their patients
exposed to trauma and/or faced moral dilemmas due to the severe effects of the virus. Being
relating to challenges in the delivery of high- exposed to massive deaths can be traumatic to
quality care, possibly due to a lack of experience some individuals. And mental health problems
or equipment, or as a result of low staffing levels. are already taking its toll on physical health, the
group said. Most of those experiencing mental
These unprecedented circumstances are
health problems experience increased body
likely to increase the risk of mental health
fatigue, headache, too much or lack of sleep,
disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder
difficulty in breathing, increased heart rate,
(PTSD) or depression, other anxiety disorders,
muscle pain, low immune system, loss of appetite,
substance misuse and suicide. HCWs caring for
and insomnia.
patients with COVID-19 are also at increased risk
of infection, and by extension, have to contend Bullying in the medical training program
with the risk of infecting their families. Moreover, and psychological neglect are also among the
some individuals, including those of Black, Asian challenges faced by healthcare workers. Some
and minority ethnic (BAME) background are at first year medical residents are reportedly being
even higher risk of adverse outcomes and may forced to go on straight hospital duties due to lack
therefore also be at increased risk of of manpower as some staff have either tested
psychological issues. The risk of psychological positive for the coronavirus, undergo quarantine,
harm is not restricted to frontline HCWs; in fact, or have resigned due to over fatigue. Others
most HCWs, regardless of their specialty, are reported being forced to wash plates and to pay
likely to have experienced notable challenges for their senior residents’ food. Healthcare
since the pandemic began, including changes to workers who experience workplace bullying are
the way they work and, at times, being unable to more likely to perform poorly, more prone to
deliver the quality of care they would normally. workplace error, and more likely to experience
Whilst some HCWs will undoubtedly thrive in low self-esteem. Prolonged exposure from
such stressful circumstances, it is imperative that workplace bullying will lead to burnout,
managers of HCWs take measures to protect the
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dissatisfaction, sleep disturbance, poor attention, insights into a problem or generate new ideas for
loss of confidence, and enthusiasm at work. research. Qualitative research is used to
understand how people experience the world.
The co-founder of MentalHealthPH
There are numerous qualitative research
underscored the importance of taking care of
approaches (grounded theory, ethnography,
one’s mental health. He noted that if mental ill-
action research, phenomenological research, and
health becomes neglected especially during this
narrative research), and the researcher has
pandemic, it can be the next wave of public health
utilized phenomenological research as it
concern of our health care system. Now more
investigates a phenomenon or event by describing
than ever, it is time to invest in mental health. If
and interpreting participants’ lived experiences
mental conditions are not addressed, these too
(Bhandari, 2020). Phenomenology helps us to
have detrimental effects to our health in the long
understand the meaning of people’s lived
run.
experience. A phenomenological study explores
According to the study “‘Healthcare what people experienced and focuses on their
Heroes’: problems with media focus on heroism experiences of a phenomena (Duquesne
from health workers during the COVID-19 University, 2020).
pandemic” by Catriona L Cox (2020), although
The respondents consisted of ten (10)
the media have repeatedly praised healthcare
selected Filipino health care workers overseas.
workers for their ‘heroic’ work and this gratitude
The ten (10) respondents were chosen based on
is undoubtedly appreciated by many, the overuse
their interest to cooperate and share their
of the term ‘hero’ can also have potentially
experiences, issues, and concerns regarding on
negative consequences. The heroism narrative
working overseas during the COVID-19
currently being employed by the media can be
pandemic.
damaging as it suppresses meaningful discussion
about what the limits of this duty to treat are. It The researcher decided to use
fails to acknowledge the importance of questionnaire as the main research instrument to
reciprocity, and through its implication that all collect and gather the needed data as it consists of
healthcare workers have to be heroic, it can have a series of questions for the purpose of gathering
negative effects on workers themselves. Rather information from respondents. It can also be
than invoking the language of heroism to praise thought of as a kind of written interview. Data can
healthcare workers, people should examine, as a be collected relatively quickly because the
society, what duties healthcare workers have to researcher would not need to be present when the
work in this pandemic. questionnaires were completed. Questionnaires
can be an effective means of measuring the
behavior, attitudes, preferences, opinions, and
METHODOLOGY intentions of a large number of subjects more
cheaply and quickly than other methods (McLeod,
The study determined the issues and 2018).
concerns of selected Filipino health care workers
overseas during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this The questionnaire was conducted online
study, the researchers used qualitative research since the world is in the middle of facing the
method. COVID-19 pandemic. The researcher and the
respondents communicated through an online
Qualitative research involves collecting platform or application, Messenger.
and analyzing non-numerical data (e.g., text,
video, or audio) to understand concepts, opinions,
or experiences. It can be used to gather in-depth
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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION “heroes” in which they are expected to mitigate

the virus because of their occupation. Findings
The study presents, analyses, and support the article of Wille (2020) which states
interprets the response gathered from the selected that since the outbreak of the coronavirus disease
overseas Filipino health workers in determining 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, health workers
their issues and concerns while working during from around the world have been facing a lot of
the COVID-19 pandemic. challenges as they are put to the ultimate test and
Table 1. Issues and Concerns of Selected are under tremendous pressure to limit the spread
Filipino Health Workers Overseas During the of the COVID-19.
COVID-19 Pandemic Prejudice, otherwise known as,
Themes Respondents discrimination is another issue manifested in the
1. Extreme Pressure HW1, HW2, HW3, responses of health workers. Health Worker 1
HW5, HW6, HW8, exclaimed that, “Yes, if they see you and find out
HW9, HW10 that you are working at the hospital, they will
2. Prejudice / HW1, HW2, HW3, suddenly avoid you if you meet them as if we
Discrimination HW4, HW5, HW9 have this deadly disease, especially if you cough
3. Job Burnout HW1, HW2, HW3, and sneeze inside a supermarket or mall, almost
HW4, HW5, HW6, all people will look at you. They will suddenly
HW7, HW8, HW9, walk away from you because they think that you
HW10 are ill.” To add to this, Health Worker 3 revealed,
4. Insufficient Pay HW1, HW2, HW4 “As a healthcare worker we can say that we are
5. Facilities’ Lack of HW1, HW2, HW3, the ones who experience the most discrimination
Staff HW4, HW8
because of this virus. Sometimes, people are
6. Facilities’ HW3, HW6, HW7
embarrassed to approach us because they think
Inadequate Supply of
that when we work in the hospital, we are the ones
PPE and Ventilators
7. Demands of HW1, HW2, HW4 carrying the disease.”
Patients This further implies that overseas
8. Being from Family HW2, HW4, HW6, Filipino health overseas experience prejudice
HW7 because of the fact that they work in a health
Table 1 presents the issues and concerns
facility. The present study is made stronger by the
of selected Filipino health workers overseas
article of Gaviola (2020) which enunciate that
during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is
discrimination is one of the difficulties and fear
categorized into themes. The first theme that
Filipino health workers are facing as some
emerged is Extreme Pressure. For Health Worker
Filipinos are harassed outside the workplace
1, “Yes, we’ve been under pressure because we
because of the fact that they are Asians and
don’t have enough nurses and facilities.” and for
racially abused as the virus originated from Asia.
Health Worker 2, “Yes, because everyone
expects us to save those patients with COVID-19.” Another theme that occurred is the Job
Health Worker 5 said, “Of course, there is. Burnout. For Health Worker 3, “Right now, due
Anxiety itself is a big pressure.” In a similar to lack of manpower and overwork, it is
manner, Health Worker 10 told that, “Yes, too unavoidable that our bodies will give in to fatigue,
much pressure to the point that it may have gone and also due to the sworn duty that must be
to depression.” performed.” In addition to this, Health Worker 7
said that “Yes, totally, because they need us, our
This implies that because of the COVID-
service. Also, no extra day off is allowed during
19 pandemic, almost all Filipino health workers
this pandemic.”
overseas are carrying the heavy weight of being
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This implies that Job Burnout is one of fatigue.” Additionally, Health Worker 4
the major issues all health workers are expressed, “We are understaffed. Many nurses
experiencing as their service is of utmost needed are resigning with different reasons. Due to this
to attend patients. Results support the article of pandemic, our patients multiplies so it is so hard
Baron (2020) where some psychologists to handle them with a shortage of staff.” This
expressed that stress, toxic cultural environment, implies that facilities’ lack of staff is also a
limited number of workforce, poor job design that concern as it shortage of staff means greater
leads to overwork, lack of hazard pay, extended workload and burden to those left in a health care
work hours, exposure to massive deaths, and fear facility.
of contracting the disease are causing mental
The sixth theme that emerged is the
health problems to healthcare workers (HCWs).
concern regarding the Facilities’ Inadequate
Another theme that transpired is Supply of PEE and Ventilators. For Health
Insufficient Pay Health Worker 2 revealed “For Worker 3, “Due to the high demand of healthcare
the past 3 months, whatever the amount of you workers and infectious diseases, my hospital also
have been on duty, that is all you will be paid for. has a shortage of staff.” Health Worker 7
Our salary is given on time, but there is a expressed, “At first, we don’t have enough PPE
reduction in salary because there are many curfew supply, but later on, we got everything that we
hours here, every day, the curfew time varies. The need. For ventilators, we don’t use ventilators in
number of patients visiting is somewhat reduced this nursing home.” This implies that not all
because they are afraid to go out, so the facilities health workers are working at have
company’s income also decreases.” To which adequate supply of PPE and ventilators.
Health Worker 4 added, “In my 13 years of
Results support the article of McGarry, et
service in my company, salary is not enough
al. (2020) which founded that more than one in
compare to my other colleagues with less than a
five nursing homes reports a severe shortage of
year of service as their salary is higher than mine.
PPE and any shortage of staff, as well as those
But, the salary is given on time.” This further
serving more Medicaid recipients and those with
implies that some health workers are underpaid
lower quality scores, were more likely to report
even when they are risking their lives on the line
shortages.
to serve people during this pandemic.
Another issue for health workers is the
Aside from the previously mentioned,
Demands of Patients. According to Health
Facilities’ Lack of Staff is another concern
Worker 1, “We worked hard and make sure of
manifested in the response of Health Worker 1,
patients’ satisfaction, but sometimes it isn’t good
Health Worker 2, and Health Worker 4. For
enough for some patient. But as a health worker,
Health Worker 1, “Staffing is the major problem
I don’t mind being scolded sometimes, simply,
now in this hospital, but it’s rare that we do not to
we shouldn’t bother at all.” To add to this, Health
have enough facility because COVID positive
Worker 2 exclaimed. “I hope that other people
patients are transferred to the government
listen when they are told to practice social
hospital.” On the other hand, Health Worker 2
distancing and handwashing. Others will just be
said, “There are days when we are short on staff
rude to us, telling us that our job is easy.” Both
because others get sick, and there are many
statements imply that one of their concerns is how
patients who resulted positive in the swab test.
to balance their time and needs for themselves
Some patients were transferred to another
and for their patients without being deemed idle
hospital because sometimes there are no vacant
health workers.
room. Shortage of staff happens especially in the
ICU because many nurses are sick, some are In this Table, the last theme that
positive, others have normal illness due to transpired is Being Away from Family. For
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Health Worker 6, “In my part it’s the other way shadow following on your every step. Everyone
around, I was worrying more of my family back is suspected of carrying the virus.” In a similar
home and it does not help at all for me to focus manner, Health Worker 5 said, “The difference
sometimes in my work.” Health Worker 7 added was the level of anxiety that health workers have
that “Being away from my family doesn’t help me while doing their work. Not able to see your
to focus. This pandemic is worldwide, everybody enemy in the battle field was a huge thing.” The
is affected and I do worry about them so giving health workers’ responses imply that all health
them financial support is one of the things I could workers have the fear of being in contact and
for them for now.” contaminated by the virus.
All statements given by both health Another difference of working then and
workers imply that even being away from their now according to the health workers is the Unsafe
family means giving them a better life, the mere Environment. For Health Worker 1, “It was so
fact of being away from their family still worries exciting to work as a nurse way back 10 to 20
them. The present study is made stronger by years ago because there was no such deadly
findings of the article of Gaviola (2020) which disease compared now that people are even afraid
shows that being away from their family and to hold something out in the streets.” Moreover,
living on their own in these challenging times get Health Worker 7 said that “This is the first
them out of focus as one cannot completely worldwide pandemic, that I’ve ever experience,
concentrate on their work while thinking of their where lots of lives were lost. It’s an unseen enemy.
family’s well-being in their country. They were It can be anywhere in places that we usually go—
also afraid for their own health and safety that if at work, malls, transportations.” Results imply
one gets infected, or worst die from the disease, that many health workers also feel the risk of the
they will die alone away from their loved ones. environment they are moving at, thus, making
their activities restricted and limited.
Table 2. Selected Overseas Filipino Health
Workers’ Working Conditions Then and Now The third theme that emerged is the
Exhaustion health workers’ experience compared
Themes Respondents to back then. Health Worker 10 mentioned that
1. Fear of the HW1, HW2, HW3, HW4,
“We are very exhausted, so we need to have a
Virus HW5, HW6, HW7, HW8,
vacation” Likewise, Health Worker 5 revealed
HW9, HW10
that “Health care workers have been required to
2. Unsafe HW1, HW2, HW4, HW7,
Environment HW8, HW9 work under stressful conditions without proper
3. Exhaustion HW1, HW2, HW3, HW4, protective equipment.” Moreover, Health Worker
HW5, HW6, HW7, HW8, 7 added, “Back then, working without this
HW9, HW10 pandemic is most enjoyable, less stress, and
4. Stricter Rules HW1, HW2, HW3, HW6, happy. There are no travel restrictions, no time to
and Protocols HW7, HW8 relax after long hours of work. Now, it’s so boring,
Table 2 shows the selected overseas stressful, and exhausting. There is no way to
Filipino health workers’ working conditions now release our stress. It’s just like a repetitive
and then. This is also categorized into themes. everyday routine—work and home.” The
The first theme that occurred is Fear of the Virus. responses imply that exhaustion is inevitable
Health Worker 9 insists that, “As a nurse, especially when health care carries the critical
working condition before pandemic is a lot better role of alleviating the spread of the deadly virus.
than the current situation in a way that I am not
Having Stricter Rules and Protocols also
worried of contacting with the deadly disease.”
transpired based on the responses of the health
While Health Worker 8 stated, “Working on this
workers. Health Worker 2 mentioned that “Back
situation is not normal. Because fear is like a
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then, there were no nervousness, fear, and we’re 3. Healthy HW1, HW2, HW7, HW9
just calm. Now, on the contrary, there are the Lifestyle
worries, tiredness, hunger, overtime, you cannot Table 3 presents how selected overseas
touch just any part of your body, you should Filipino health workers handle the issues and
always have personal protective equipment or so- concerns brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.
called PPE, hand shaking and hugs are forbidden, The first theme Focus on Work is one of the
and mass gathering is also forbidden.” In the themes that appeared. Health Worker 1 revealed,
same way, Health Worker 6 agreed that “It was “Being away from my family is something I
way better working before than now without the always put aside because I don’t want to make
pandemic as for now, we need to follow certain mistakes at work. So I make sure my mind is
protocols in such cases/patients.” In addition, focus during my duty hours, and then have time
Health Worker revealed 8 that “People need to to communicate with my family after that.”
stay inside their houses to prevent the Health Worker 4 said, “Despite this fear, it’s
transmission of the virus. Air, land and water better that they are here with me because I can
transportation need to stop the operation. Borders focus on my work and they are the reason why I
are also closed. And the general the movement of am strong and fighting.” as she’s together with
the people is controlled.” Results imply that their her whole family at home. This implies that one
normal lives back then are far more different now of the things they do to handle the issues and
during this pandemic. concerns brought by the current pandemic is
learning how to focus on work and set aside all
The findings correlate with the study of the worries during duty hours.
Malcolm Sim (2020) where it pointed out the
major risks to healthcare and other workers on the Another theme emerged is to Practice
frontline due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Those Health Precautions. Health Worker 7 said, “Stay
workers involved in healthcare are at the front safe: proper PPE, hand washing, social
line in terms of risk of infection and death, as has distancing.” In a similar way, Health Worker 4
been the case during many previous infectious stated that, “Precautionary measures should be
disease epidemics. The number of infected and strictly followed such as proper hand hygiene,
severely ill patients is escalating as well as the physical distancing, and wearing mask.” Results
number of exposed healthcare workers who are imply that health workers are complying to these
under self-quarantine, either because they have health and safety precautions as abiding it is one
been infected with COVID-19 or have been in way of being safe from the virus.
contact with a case. This is leading to a much
Last theme that occurred from this table
greater workload and stress for those left in the
is having a Healthy Lifestyle. Health Worker 2
healthcare workforce and a serious weakening of
emphasizes, “I need to be strong, eat healthy food,
the health service provided.
and take extra precautions. Also maintain good
Table 3. How Selected Overseas Filipino hygiene to maintain the good physical health so
Health Workers Handle the Issues and that you can advise everyone on how to keep the
Concerns Brought by the COVID-19 body healthy.” In addition to this, Health Worker
Pandemic 9 said, “I would also make myself stronger by
eating healthy foods and exercising regularly.”
Themes Respondents This further implies, together with health
1. Focus on HW1, HW2, HW3, HW4, promoting practices, having a healthy lifestyle
Work HW5, HW8, HW9
must be considered for health workers to have a
2. Practice HW1, HW2, HW3, HW4,
stronger immune system when working.
Health HW7, HW8, HW9,
Precautions HW10
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Indicated in an article of World Health colleagues and good people around me who are
Organization (2020), it was mentioned to keep willing to help.” For Health Worker 5, “I think
health workers safe to keep patients safe. The every health care worker have closely the same
pandemic has also highlighted the extent to which experience in this time of pandemic. We just need
protecting health workers is key to ensuring a to work hand in hand, and bear in mind that we
functioning health system and a functioning are the key to make this pandemic end.” Results
society. The WHO’s Health Worker Safety imply that there are risks working together in a
Charter included steps to protect health workers vicinity every single day, yet these colleagues are
from violence; to improve their mental health; to also the one who we can depend onto. When they
protect them from physical and biological see how eager their co-workers are, the strength
hazards; to advance national programs for health of camaraderie will keep the health workers
worker safety, and to connect health worker driven and fueled to continue to work and offer
safety policies to existing patient safety policies. help.
Table 4. Selected Overseas Filipino Health Third theme that transpired is Prayers or
Workers’ Support in Facing the Issues and having a Positive Thinking. For Health Worker 3,
Concerns of the Current Pandemic “Even though I’ve experienced ups and downs in
my career as a Nurse, this excites me to take up
Themes Respondents greater challenges and risks without the fear of
1. Family HW1, HW2, HW3, HW4,
failure or backing out.” Likewise, Health Worker
HW5, HW8, HW9, HW10
6 stated, “Always think positive, sun may rest for
2. Working HW2, HW3, HW4, HW5,
today but it will definitely rise the next day to give
with Colleagues HW7
3. Prayers / HW2, HW4, HW5, HW6, you a brighter day.” On the other hand, Health
Positive HW7, HW8, HW9 Worker 8 believed, “What we need is our deep
Thinking faith to the creator to be able to face this pandemic
4. Sworn Duty HW1, HW2, HW3, HW4, with hope that everything will become ‘normal’
to Serve People HW5, HW6, HW7, HW8, in due time.” Their responses imply that despite
HW9, HW10 being in an unprecedented situation, having faith
Table 4 shows what supports selected in Him and being optimistic are of paramount
overseas Filipino health workers in facing the importance to get through all these.
issues and concerns of current pandemic. There
Last theme that occurred is their Sworn
are 4 themes that emerged. The first theme is
Duty to Serve People. Health Worker 2 expressed,
Family. Health Worker 9 revealed, “What
“This is because this is our sworn duty, that no
motivates me is my family way back home.”
matter what happens, we will not stop serving
Health Worker 10 agreed, “Extra precaution for
people, even if it’s in exchange with our lives,
oneself and for the family.” This implies that even
even if we sacrifice our health, just for us to serve
when being away from their family is one of their
and help more people who needs our service
worries, their family is likewise their biggest
especially during this pandemic.” In the same
motivation to tackle the risks and trials overseas.
way, Health Worker 4 stated, “I chose to serve the
Working abroad is done for their family to have a
people even if I might be infected by this COVID-
better life, and if the major reason why they are
19 because I dedicated myself to help the people
working hard is there to support them, then
and I do believe helping and serving people is
backing out will never crossed their minds.
also serving God.” Results imply that their
Another theme that occurred is Working passion and sworn obligation is what keeps them
with Colleagues. Health Worker 4 mentioned. motivated in continuing to serve people who
“Ever since I started working, I don’t experience needs their service especially in times like this.
extreme pressure because there are good
 Page|12

In connection to this, Gaviola (2020) they are involve. This study also deduces that no
reported what dedicated Filipino healthcare matter what circumstances these overseas
heroes serving in different corners of the globe do Filipino health workers encounter, they are able
to chronicle their sacrifices, challenges and what to grasp the situation and get a grip of themselves
makes them embrace, with a willing heart, the by their own support system accordingly.
trials, difficulties and fears and what they do to Therefore, the issues and concerns of selected
deserve being embraced back by a grateful Filipino health workers overseas during the
society, a grateful world. From Oman and Qatar COVID-19 pandemic are something which
in the Middle East, to Singapore in Southeast should not be taken lightly, especially when the
Asia to London and Southampton in the United pandemic has transpose the important work
Kingdom, a Filipino physician and an equally sustained by health workers to the frontline of all
dedicated group of male and female nurses paint humankind.
the story of passion, compassion, caring and
In light of the findings and conclusions of
sharing in healthcare facilities in the service of
this research, the following are highly
their patients with their families and kin in mind,
recommended. The recognition given should not
thousands of miles away from the warm embrace
be emphasized to burden the health workers, but
and comforts of home.
to encourage them to continue their service to
people. More policies and laws can be
implemented to protect the health workers from
CONCLUSION discrimination and other forms of abuse. Rewards,
The findings of the study suggest that such as increase in salary or bonus, would also be
there are, not just a few, but, numerous issues and a big aid in uplifting their spirits despite the
concerns of the selected Filipino health workers laborious situations they undergo. Their
overseas during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most employers can also establish a convenient way,
of these concerns are already known concerns, like giving breaks and local vacation, on cheering
while some of it were not commonly mentioned the health workers that are away from their family.
before. From the gathered differences in Nonetheless, the research is limited to the
accomplishing work before and during the discussion of the issues and concerns of the
pandemic, it can be inferred that these overseas selected Filipino health workers overseas during
Filipino health workers experienced a drastic the COVID-19 pandemic. This means that the
change in their working conditions then and now. research has excluded the pros of working during
It also manifested how they handle the issues and the pandemic as it is aimed to focus on the
concerns brought by the COVID-19 pandemic challenges encountered by the respondents of this
professionally and appropriately. These selected research.
overseas Filipino health workers have greatly
expressed what supports them in facing their
issues and concerns due to the current pandemic.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This research concludes that there are
I, the researcher, wish to extend my deep
several factors that precipitate the selected
appreciation to everyone who contributed to this
overseas Filipino health workers’ difficulties and
study. The researcher is extremely grateful to the
challenges while working during the COVID-19
many individuals mentioned below and extended
pandemic. Tackling this matter have let the
help and support in making this study possible.
selected health workers somehow ease the weight
The researcher’s instructor, Mr. Martin Ceazar
of the burden they are carrying with respect to
Hermocilla for his moral support and valuable
their chosen duty by communicating their plight
ideas suggested throughout the period of this
and opinion regarding the working conditions
 Page|13

study. To my alma mater, St. Rose of Lima https://globalnation.inquirer.net/186502/

Montessori School, for giving me the golden overseas-filipino-healthcare-warriors-in-
opportunity to do this wonderful research. To the the-time-of-covid-19-for-family-and-
hardworking overseas Filipino health workers for humanity
allowing the researcher to conduct data collection
Greenberg, N., et al. (2020, Mar. 26). Managing
with them. To the researcher’s beloved family for
mental health challenges faced by
their unswerving support financially and morally
healthcare workers during covid-19
to the researcher and for their encouragement to
pandemic. Retrieved 18 Sep. 2020 from
make this research a thriving one. And above all,
https://www.bmj.com/content/368/bmj.
to the Almighty God for his worthy undying love
m1211
to the researcher, through His Guidance, He gave
me strength to expand my knowledge and skills Greenberg, N. (2020 Jun. 19). Mental health of
in this research. health-care workers in the COVID-19
era. Retrieved 07 Oct. 2020 from
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41581-
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