Going by the data from the Philippine National Statistics Office, in 2009-2010, approximately >2 million Filipinos at any one time had ventured abroad for greener pastures. The exact and most up-to-date number may be difficult to ascertain but the OFW (overseas Filipino worker) phenomenon is a reality that affects the lives of many Filipinos.
There are always several aspects to a story, even if it appears to be good at the outset. The OFWs, whether their jobs abroad are land-based (eg, nurses, caregivers, domestic helpers, doctors, engineers, IT professionals, skilled technical workers, artists, musicians, cooks, etc.) or sea-based (eg, seafarers), are indeed modern-day heroes, especially with their foreign currency remittances that help not just their loved ones but the local economy as well. However, there is also the counterpoint of long-distance relationships, the so-called "brain drain" effect, and other tangible and intangible factors.
Presented is a YouTube video of a song (entitled "Babalik ka rin", performed by Gary Valenciano and composed by L. Ocampo). The song is sure to have the most profound meaning to those who are, had been, or will be away from the Philippines (including OFWs), whether on a short-term or long-term stay, for a pleasure trip, or to pursue their goals, widen their horizons, and make their dreams come true.
(Video from youtube.com; posted by wowie888 10.09.06)