𝟏. 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐫

Many OFWs struggle with communication, especially if they are not fluent in the local language. This can affect their work, social interactions, and ability to access services.

𝟐. 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬

OFWs may encounter different management styles, work ethics, or expectations. For example, some cultures may be more direct, while Filipinos are often more reserved and polite.

𝟑. 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬

Adjusting to unfamiliar food, meal times, and dietary habits can be challenging. Some may miss Filipino dishes or find it hard to adapt to the local cuisine.

𝟒. 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

The weather in other countries—whether too cold, too hot, or too dry—can be a significant adjustment for OFWs coming from a tropical climate like the Philippines.

𝟓. 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐬

Cultural practices, religious beliefs, and traditions may differ significantly. For instance, modesty in clothing or prayer routines may need to be respected in predominantly Muslim or conservative countries.

𝟔. 𝐋𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬

Being away from family, especially during holidays or important family events, often leads to emotional stress and homesickness.

𝟕. 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬

Some OFWs may face discrimination, stereotyping, or unfair treatment, depending on how foreign workers are viewed in the host country.

𝟖. 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

Female OFWs, in particular, may face additional challenges, especially in cultures with strict gender roles or where women have fewer rights.

Understanding and preparing for these cultural adjustments can help OFWs adapt more smoothly to life abroad. By being culturally aware and open to new experiences, OFWs can better navigate their environment, build meaningful relationships, and succeed in their overseas work.

Reference: https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation…

Joana D. and Tina G.