We all look forward to making our lives better regardless of what ‘better’ means for us. We all strive at our own pace, focusing on working hard in order to reach our personal end goals. This is why some of us also look forward to a deserving relaxation time alone or with family, friends and loved ones, especially on Labour Day. It is, after all, the day for the hardworking ones, a holiday meant to honour the efforts and contributions made to have a better life and a community.
But while Labour Day provides the hardworking Pinoys to get a day off, many still do not have the luxury of celebrating the day on their own terms.
Last Labour Day, we asked five different workers how they manage to persevere despite having a job that barely affords them the opportunity to enjoy the holidays, even the one that is intended for them.
Rhea Abiada, 29
Nurse
“Nung simula mahirap, pero masasanay ‘din ‘yung sarili mo. ‘Yun talaga ‘yung profession mo kaya walang problema. Nakakatuwa kasi sa pedia ako [naka-station]. Nakakatuwa ‘pag ngumingiti na ulit sa ’yo ‘yung mga bata, ‘yung sa una parang hindi na sila magsu-survive pero gagaling sila at pagbalik nila dito ang lulusog na nila.”
(At first it was difficult, but you’ll get used to it. That’s what your profession calls for, so it’s not a problem. I enjoy being stationed at the pediatric ward. It’s great when the kids are finally smiling at you, especially when earlier you worried about their condition and then they recover and come back and they’re all healthy again).
Mary Grace Arca, 31
Housekeeper
“Nung una, lumuwas ako dito sa Cavite para mangamuhan para maging mas malaya ako. Pero gusto ko talagang makatulong sa pamilya ko. Syempre mahirap na hindi ko sila nakakasama pero na-realise ko na mahirap talaga ang buhay namin sa probinsya. Kulang talaga. Kaya natanggap ko na ako ‘yung nasa posisyon para makatulong sa kanila.”
(At first, I moved to Cavite to work as a housekeeper so that I could live independently. But I really wanted to also help my family. Of course, it’s hard to be away from them, but I realised how hard our life in the province truly was. It really wasn’t enough. So, I’ve accepted that it’s my responsibility to help).
Marlon Bucad, 30
Jeepney driver
“Mas mahirap pa nga pag sinesermonan ako ng asawa ko. Pagdating sa pangarap, wala, masaya na ‘ko sa gan’to. Ang pangarap ko na lang ay para sa mga anak ko. Gusto kong mapatapos ko sila.”
(Getting nagged by my wife is harder. As far as dreams go, I’m already good with what I’m doing. My only dream is for my children. I want them to be able to finish school).
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