Joy Hazel Escopel of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, is thankful to the government for giving her an avenue to pursue her dreams and earn a living without leaving the country.

Escopel tried her luck in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, but was unfortunately unable to finish her contract due to her medical condition.

Upon returning home, she applied for financial aid through the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s (OWWA) Balik Pinas, Balik Hanapbuhay (BPBH) Program.

“Noong nakatanggap ako ng P20,000 mula sa OWWA. Doon ako nag-start mag-establish ng maliit na negosyo at nag-start bumili ng mga gamit sa nails,” Escopel said.

[When I received P20,000 from OWWA, that's where I started to establish a small business and started buying nail supplies.]

She disclosed that she used the cash aid to buy a box of gel polish, nail drill and manicure sets, nail art kits, and other items to start her small business.

Escopel admitted that she always had a knack for nail artistry, even as a child. Cleaning and designing nails were more than just a chore for her; it was a hobby that sparked creativity and joy.

She is now a well-known nail technician and one of the most sought-after nail artists in the region.   

“Bata pa lang ako, manicurista na talaga ako. Nililinis ko mga kuko ko using mga basag na bote. Kaya siguro para sa akin talaga ang pag manicure. Kaya pinursue ko ang pagiging nail tech ngayon to support my needs, support my family’s needs para naman makaahon sa kahirapan,” she pointed out.

[Even at a young age, I felt that I was really a manicurist. I cleaned my nails using broken bottles. Maybe that's why I thought that being a manicurist was really for me. So I pursued becoming a nail tech now to support me and my family's needs and somehow as a way to get out of poverty.]

Meanwhile, OWWA Regional Director Christelyn Caceres said BPBH is a livelihood support program that provides immediate relief to returning OFWs who were distressed or displaced due to various reasons.

She said that they are provided a maximum of P20,000 through the program as a start-up or additional capital for their project of choice.

In 2023, OWWA released a total of P39,720,000 to at least 2,323 program beneficiaries in the Soccsksargen region.

Caceres also advised qualified beneficiaries to visit their office for additional details, evaluation, and documentary requirements at Ilao Bldg., Judge Alba St., Brgy. Zone 3, Koronadal City.

She also said that interested individuals can coordinate with their designated public OFW desk officers in their respective municipalities and cities. (ORVR - PIA Sultan Kudarat)