DREAMS ACROSS DISTANCES: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL RESEARCH

ABOUT GRADE 11 STUDENTS IN ANHS WITH OFW PARENTS

A Research Proposal Presented to

The Faculty of Agusan National High School
Senior High School
Butuan City

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for

PRACTICAL RESEARCH 1
(Qualitative Research)

ASHLIE MECCAN L. ALANANO

JESSIE S. CUIZON JR.
AKISHA MARIE P. GUERRERO
JHOANA NICOLE A. RARA
KHRISTOFER JOSEPH A. GARAY
MARK STEPHEN T. BARAYA
NATHANIEL REYGAN E. BACALSO
NATHANIEL T. GABING
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) represent a significant segment of the

global workforce, with millions of Filipinos venturing abroad in pursuit of better

economic opportunities for themselves and their families. The number of

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) or Filipino workers who worked abroad during

the period April to September 2022 was estimated at 1.96 million. (Philippines

Statistics Authority, 2023) The majority were women, many hoping to give their

child a better future. They work as nurses, hospitality staff, nannies and cleaners.

Mothers who work for high income often pay a high personal cost. They may

miss out on experiencing their children's entire childhood. In some cases, their

relationship with their children may remain damaged and distant even years after

their return. Additionally, there are instances where children's lives can go off

track without a parent at home.

According to Bowlby’s Attachment Theory in the developmental years of

children, Bowlby firmly believed that the attachments such as bonds and loyalty

formed during childhood, because childhood attachment is crucial to later

development, Bowlby argued that investigators should study childhood directly

and not rely on distorted retrospective accounts from adult (Bowlby, 1969; 1988,

as cited in Feist & Feist). It is essential that a parent and a child can

communicate and establish a strong bond during the child's development. This
connection plays a vital role in the child's emotional and social well-being.

However, children of overseas Filipino workers may find it challenging to

establish an intimate relationship with their parents due to distance and

separation.

This study will explore the experiences of students having OFW parents

on their academic performance, social and emotional well-being, and overall

development of students. It will also delve into the coping mechanisms and

support systems utilized by these students to address the challenges they face.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1. What are the experiences of students with the absence of their parents

as OFW?

2. What are the academic challenges faced students with OFW parents?

3. How do students manage their responsibilities at home and school in

the absence of their parents?

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This research holds significant importance for various stakeholders.

Students— with OFW parents, it offers valuable insights into navigating

personal challenges, fostering a deeper understanding of their parents'

circumstances, and grasping their perceptions. By enhancing awareness,

students can better cope with familial separations and complexities.

Teachers— stand to benefit by gaining a nuanced understanding of

students with disruptive behavior stemming from having OFW parents. This
understanding equips educators to provide tailored support and advice,

addressing issues arising from the absence of parental guidance.

Parents— who are distant from their families or children can glean insights

into their child's experiences and anticipate potential effects, fostering better

communication and support.

Future researchers — can build upon this foundation, refining

methodologies and uncovering further solutions to enhance support systems for

this demographic.