For Filipino workers, nostalgia inspires literary creation

Sometimes such debates are also broadcast on “Radio Station Pinoy,” a radio station that broadcasts programs in Tagalog on Sundays, for those Filipino workers who cannot participate in the event.

“Many of our members do not have days off, they can only participate by listening to the radio,” Laureano said. “We want to not only entertain every Filipino, but to give them some viewpoints, ideas (other than their daily job).”

Many of the migrant workers from the Philippines received good educations at home, but chose, not always willingly, to work in Taiwan to earn a better living.

“As the economy in the Philippines is in crisis, I came to Taiwan to be a domestic helper, but it’s a pity, because I have talent,” said Artugue, who holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in her mother country.

“The SMI helped me to build my confidence again,” she said. After joining the SMI last year, she finally had an outlet to demonstrate and develop her literary knowledge and talent and maintain her dignity.

“We found a home in the SMI, and I am proud of being a Filipino,” said Artugue with a smile. She came to work in Taiwan as a caregiver four years ago, leaving behind her 8-year-old son.

Suffering from the separation, her love for her son, and her struggles in Taiwan became the primary inspirations for her creations.

Laureano found the group the ideal way to spend idle time. “Before, I used to spend my weekends in the dormitory, which is a total waste. But when I joined the SMI and saw my poems published, I realized that my hidden talents were revealed and developed,” said Laureano, a previous winner of best poem award in an annual competition held by the organization.

“After I joined the SMI, my heavy workload and bad dormitory facilities became more bearable,” said another member of the organization, whose dormitory is not equipped with air conditioning. The hot and humid nights in Taiwan often make it difficult for him to fall asleep, even after a long working day, he said.

More than a literary club for these migrant workers, the SMI is also a place where Filipinos can find counsel. Those who are encountering economic difficulties or are having problems with a bad employer can ask for help, Artugue said.

The group also organizes excursions to Taipei’s suburbs, such as Danshui, Yangmingshan or the Taipei Zoo, to bring members closer together.

Such an organization that takes care of Filipino workers’ physical and spiritual needs and offers a venue to express their thoughts is rare in Taiwan. As it further helps introduce Filipino culture and its members’ reflections on life in a foreign land through their poetry, not only will the migrants find greater satisfaction, but local residents will come to better understand and appreciate these unsung foreigners who contribute significantly to Taiwan’s economy and society.

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