Arman Dela Cruz grew up in Pampanga, where life was simple yet often difficult. His father was a tricycle driver, and his mother sold vegetables in the market. Arman was the eldest of five siblings, and though his parents did their best, money was always tight. When he finished his vocational course in civil engineering technology, he made the brave decision to work abroad as a construction worker in Qatar.
For Arman, leaving home was both exciting and heartbreaking. On the day of his departure, his mother pressed a small rosary into his hand and said, This will remind you that no matter where you are, God is with you. Arman tucked it into his pocket as he boarded the plane, determined to make something of himself and support his family.
The first days in Qatar were overwhelming. The desert heat was unlike anything he had ever felt, and the long shifts at the construction site drained him. His work mainly involved assisting engineers, handling steel reinforcement, and helping build the framework of what would become towering skyscrapers. Every day, he felt the weight of the scorching sun and the fatigue in his muscles. Yet, every payday, when he sent money back home, he felt renewed strength knowing his siblings could continue their studies.
The dormitory where he lived with other workers was cramped, but it became a place of brotherhood. OFWs from different provinces and even workers from India and Nepal shared stories during their meal breaks. Despite coming from different backgrounds, they were united by sacrifice and the dream of building a better life for their families. For Arman, these friendships became a lifeline in times of loneliness.
One memory stood out. During Ramadan, his Qatari supervisor invited him and his colleagues to an iftar meal after sundown. Arman tasted traditional dishes like harees and dates for the first time. He realized that even in a foreign land, kindness and cultural exchange could bridge gaps between people. It was in that moment that he felt a little less like a stranger.
As the months turned into years, Arman’s skills improved. He learned to read complex blueprints and gained trust from his supervisors. Eventually, he was promoted as a foreman, leading a small team of workers. With the additional income, he managed to help renovate his parent’s home back in Pampanga and finance his sister’s nursing degree.
Still, there were days when homesickness struck deeply. On special occasions like birthdays or Christmas, he would video call his family. Seeing his siblings smiles and hearing their laughter reminded him of why he endured the hardship. His mother would always say, Anak, you are our bridge. Because of you, we are crossing to a better life.
After six years in Qatar, Arman returned home for a much needed break. As he stepped into their newly built home and saw his family’s proud faces, he realized the truth of his mother’s words. He had become more than a construction worker abroad he had become a bridge, connecting dreams to reality, sacrifice to reward, and distance to love.
Arman’s story is the story of countless OFWs who quietly labor in foreign lands. Their sweat builds not only cities abroad but also the futures of their families back home.
