Christmas in the Philippines is renowned for being one of the longest and most festive in the world, filled with vibrant celebrations and unique traditions that start soon as the “ber” months kick in. Among these traditions, one surely stands out: the act of generosity, expressed through thoughtful gifts and heartfelt gestures.
Photo: Cadbury Philippines
Few embody the true essence of generosity more profoundly than our overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). These modern-day heroes venture far from home to uplift their families’ futures, sacrificing years of shared moments and braving difficult challenges—from homesickness to cultural adjustments—for their loved ones’ happiness and financial security.
While technological advancements in communication have made life a bit more bearable for OFWs, the feeling of loneliness and isolation is still ever-present, especially during the holiday season which is supposed to be a time for togetherness.
Analyn Ortega, whose story of generosity is featured in Cadbury’s latest film, shared that in her 26 years of working as a domestic helper in Hong Kong, not once was she able to celebrate Christmas with her family back home. If there is one gift she would like to receive, it is to fly home and spend even just one holiday with her son, Roi.
“Kahit kailan, hindi naging madali sa akin ang malayo sa anak ko, lalo na’t dalawang taong gulang pa lang siya nung nung umalis ako,” said Analyn. “Pero kahit kailan din, hindi ko pinagsisihan ‘tong desisyon ko na mangibang-bansa. Alam kong maraming nawalang taon sa amin at hindi ko na maibabalik ‘yon pero bilang isang magulang, kailangan ko magtiis para mabigyan siya ng magandang kinabukasan.”
Cadbury, a brand that has stood for generosity for over 200 years, arranged an early Christmas celebration with her son. Analyn was treated to a first-class flight home with Philippine Airlines.
Photo: Cadbury Philippines
In the film, Analyn is seen boarding a plane, her face laced with both excitement and anxiousness as the distance between her and Roi closes. To sweeten the journey, a flight attendant hands Analyn a Cadbury Dairy Milk bar with a handwritten note at the back from Roi. He shares that he is one step closer to being employed as an airline pilot—a dream realized by Analyn’s unwavering love, perseverance, and generosity.
“Si mama po talaga ang dahilan kaya gusto kong maging piloto,” shared Roi. “Pangarap ko na makapag-retiro siya ng walang ibang kailangan isipin kundi ang magpahinga at mag-enjoy kasama kami. Gusto ko din maging isang instrument of connection para sa iba pang OFWs na patuloy na nagsasakripisyo para sa mga mahal nila sa buhay.”
“Selfless givers like Analyn are everywhere but they are oftentimes left unseen and unheard,” said Cadbury Philippines’ Marketing Executive, Allana Paz. “We need to remind them that they, too, deserve to receive the love they give and more. It is our hope that by sharing the story of Analyn, more people will be able to find it within themselves to give more love, especially to those who love unconditionally and give selflessly.”
Watch Cadbury Philippines’ short film about the love, sacrifice, and generosity of OFWs:
