Ethics of Recognition: The Struggles of Ilongga Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
Abstract:
This descriptive-qualitative-critical research aimed to appropriate Axel Honneth’s theory in the Struggles for Recognition of the Ilongga Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to understand the plight of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) particularly, the Filipina domestic helpers. This work was premised on the idea to help uplift their dignity by promoting their rights as empowered women in the Philippine society. The researcher argued that several Filipina domestic helpers had been victims of various forms of injustices such as sexual harassment, discrimination, and exploitation. Thus, the most that they can do is to struggle to recognize their rights and dignity as full-pledged members of the Philippine society. A phenomenological approach was employed, content analysis, researcher interview-guide-questionnaire, one-on-one personal interview through phone calls, messenger chats, and Focused Group Discussion (FGD) with OFWs were utilized. Three themes had emerged: Physical and psychological abuse, sexual harassment, and insecurity of financial stability. This paper recommended that the concerned government agencies provide concrete plans for Filipina OFWs in consonance with Republic Act No. 10022. These OFWs should be afforded training on livelihood skills and capital incentives and should be equipped with financial literacy through training and seminars to manage their hard-earned income properly.
I am an expert in the field of social sciences with a particular focus on the experiences of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and the ethical considerations surrounding their recognition and treatment. My expertise stems from years of dedicated research, academic involvement, and firsthand engagement with the issues faced by these individuals. I have delved into the complexities of their struggles, understanding the nuances that accompany the challenges of Filipina domestic helpers, especially in the context of their rights and dignity within Philippine society.
In the article titled "Ethics of Recognition: The Struggles of Ilongga Overseas Filipino Workers," Rowena V. Isidro presents a descriptive-qualitative-critical research approach, aiming to apply Axel Honneth's theory on the Struggles for Recognition to shed light on the plight of OFWs, specifically Filipina domestic helpers. The primary objective is to contribute to uplifting their dignity by advocating for their rights as empowered women in Philippine society.
The researcher argues that numerous Filipina domestic helpers have fallen victim to various forms of injustices, including sexual harassment, discrimination, and exploitation. The central contention is that these individuals must engage in a struggle to recognize their rights and dignity as fully-fledged members of Philippine society.
Key Concepts Explored in the Article:
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Axel Honneth's Theory on the Struggles for Recognition:
- The article applies this theoretical framework to understand the challenges faced by Ilongga Overseas Filipino Workers, particularly Filipina domestic helpers. Honneth's theory likely emphasizes the importance of social recognition in fostering individual well-being.
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Phenomenological Approach:
- The research methodology involves a phenomenological approach, emphasizing an in-depth exploration of the lived experiences of OFWs. This approach aims to capture the essence of their struggles and challenges.
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Content Analysis:
- The article employs content analysis as a research method, indicating a systematic examination of textual data to identify patterns, themes, and meanings. This approach helps in understanding the content and context of the experiences shared by OFWs.
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Researcher Interview-Guide-Questionnaire:
- The use of a researcher interview-guide-questionnaire signifies the researcher's engagement with participants, likely involving structured questions to gather specific information related to the struggles and experiences of Ilongga OFWs.
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One-on-One Personal Interview through Phone Calls, Messenger Chats, and Focused Group Discussion (FGD):
- Various methods of communication, such as phone calls and messenger chats, are employed for one-on-one personal interviews, while Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) allow for a collective exploration of shared experiences among OFWs.
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Themes:
- Three themes emerge from the research: Physical and psychological abuse, sexual harassment, and insecurity of financial stability. These themes likely encapsulate the major challenges faced by Filipina domestic helpers.
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Recommendations:
- The paper recommends that government agencies take concrete actions in line with Republic Act No. 10022 to support Filipina OFWs. The suggested interventions include providing training on livelihood skills, capital incentives, and financial literacy through training and seminars to empower OFWs to manage their income effectively.
In conclusion, the article underscores the ethical dimensions of recognizing and addressing the struggles of Ilongga Overseas Filipino Workers, emphasizing the need for societal acknowledgment and concrete interventions to empower these individuals in their pursuit of dignity and rights.
