Jun grew up in Davao, where he worked at a small vulcanizing shop near the highway. Day after day, he patched up punctured tires, replaced worn-out ones, and assisted jeepney and tricycle drivers who relied on him to keep their vehicles running. It was tough, dirty work, but Jun was skilled with his hands and proud of his ability to earn an honest living. Still. no matter how hard he worked, his earnings barely covered his family’s daily needs. When an agency announced openings for tire fitters in Saudi Arabi, Jun grabbed the chance.
The journey was not easy. It was Jun’s first time leaving the country, and he felt both nervous and excited. In Saudi Arabia, he was assigned to a large auto service center that handled not just cars but trucks and heavy equipment. Unlike the small shop back home, this workplace was equipped with advanced machines, hydraulic lifts, and specialized tools. At first, Jun was overwhelmed, but his years of experience gave him confidence.
His duties included fitting new tires, balancing wheels, repairing punctures, and ensuring vehicles were for the road. The work was physically demanding. Tires for trucks and buses were heavy, and sometimes he had to endure the scorching desert heat while working on vehicles outdoors. His hands often grew sore from handling tools and rubber, but Jun reminded himself why he was there to provide a better life for his wife and children.
One of his biggest challenges was the language barrier. Most of his coworkers were from different countries India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and fellow Filipinos. At first, communication was difficult, but Jun quickly learned simple Arabic phrases to interact with customers and mechanics. Over time, he even picked up enough to explain tire problems to clients. This efforts earned him respect and made his job smoother.
Despite the hardships, there were rewarding moments. Once, a Saudi businessman brought in his SUV with a tire problem. Jun worked carefully, ensuring the wheels were balanced and safe. The customer was so impressed by his dedication and thoroughness that he personally thanked him and left a generous tip. Moments like that reminded Jun that his hard work was valued.
The hardest part of his life abroad, however, was the loneliness. After long days at the shop, he returned to his small shared room, missing his family’s laughter. During video calls, his youngest child often asked, Papa, when will you come home? Jun would smile through the screen and reply, Soon, anak. Papa is working hard for your future. Inside, his heart ached, but he knew the sacrifice was necessary.
After three years, Jun’s discipline and reliability paid off. His supervisor promoted him to senior tire fitter, giving him the responsibility of mentoring new workers. His salary increase allowed him to finish paying for their family’s small house and start saving for his children’s education.
When Jun returned to the Philippines for vacation, his neighbors greeted him with admiration. Many saw the grease-stained hands and the stories of long shifts, but his family knew the deeper truth; every tire Jun fitted carried his dreams for them.
Jun’s story as a tire fitter in Saudi Arabia shows that no job is too humble when done with dignity. Behind every vehicle that runs safely on the road is the unseen effort of workers like him, who sacrifice their own comfort to keep others moving while carrying their families hopes in their hearts.
