By Joey Aguilar/Staff Reporter

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Qatar remain optimistic that 2013 would be a good and promising year for them here and their families in the Philippines.
Although better salary tops the main reason for working in this country, most OFWs say that they feel safe and unharmed because of the low crime rate and strict implementation of security measures in this country.
“Once you commit a crime, there is no place to hide. CCTVs are everywhere and there are a lot of security personnel who give you a sense of safety,” said Ferdie Aldea, an ambulance paramedic of Hamad hospital for almost nine years.
Aldea says he also likes the ID system as information is centralised where every individual has to reveal his or her real identity in any transaction with the government and the private sector.
“Penalties for every violation is also a deterrent factor,” he said.
Seeing a brighter future here, Aldea believes that the State of Qatar “will remain the best place for expats because the demand for foreign workers is at its peak.” He added: “Besides compensation, it is still competitive as compared to other Gulf states.”
Aldea also lauded the country for its healthcare system, where state-of-the-art facilities and medical equipment are being used in hospitals, especially those under Hamad Medical Corporation.
Aldea’s partner, Roel Dionisio, who is also an ambulance paramedic, considers it as a blessing to work here for almost nine years.
“As long as I have the opportunity to work, I think I’m going to stay. The year 2013 is going to be good for those who are hard working,” he added.
Like other expatriate workers, Karwa bus driver Elvin Aumenado said Qatar is a safe place and he sees himself staying here for the next five to 10 years.
“Stress is less, I feel secured and of course, the salary is much better here,” said the 39-year old driver, who stays in the Industrial Area. He believes more OFWs will have the opportunity to work in Middle East, especially in Qatar this year.
Besides Aldea and Aumenado, other OFW women who have been working here for the past five years also prefer to stay here, than in other GCC countries.
They even describe 2013 as a “very lucky year for expatriate workers here, as well as nationals.”
A taxi driver, who wouldn’t want to be named, said 2013 would be a good year for him because he earned more yesterday as compared to previous months.
Meanwhile, most families of OFWs are hopeful that their loved ones here will stay healthy and safe as they continue to strive for a better life.
“Their safety and health will always be our primary concern. Salary is just secondary,” they said.