Marites is a Filipino term used to describe someone who is excessively talkative or chatty. In the Filipino community in Dubai, about 80 members of the Filipino Kasambahay Club recently gathered for their first ‘Mareng Tess Day’ event. The purpose of this event was to discuss financial literacy and personal savings, rather than engaging in gossip or idle chatter. The event is designed to be a monthly gathering where Filipino kasambahay can come together, socialize, and learn about important topics.
Analiza Villao, one of the founders and the current president of FKC, explained that ‘Mareng Tess Day’ is a platform for domestic workers to come together and talk about various topics with a purpose. The event was held at a hotel in Deira, where members dressed in their best attire. Discussions included the latest pension and investment plans of the Philippine Social Security System, as well as financial literacy and money remittance trends. The atmosphere was light-hearted and fun, with karaoke singing and banter among members.
Villao believes that organizing ‘Mareng Tess Day’ is a way to empower Filipino kasambahay who often feel homesick and isolated. Many domestic workers spend their off days alone, missing their families and lacking opportunities to socialize. By forming the Filipino Kasambahay Club and hosting regular events, Villao aims to create a supportive community where members can learn new skills, share experiences, and feel heard and seen. The group plans to cover a range of topics in their monthly gatherings, from social media literacy to personal development.
One of the core advocacies of FKC is promoting mental health among domestic workers. Villao highlighted the vulnerability of domestic workers to verbal and emotional abuse, emphasizing the importance of providing a safe space for them to express their emotions and seek support. ‘Mareng Tess Day’ serves as a venue for peer counseling and sharing stories, where members can openly discuss their struggles, hopes, and dreams. Through these discussions, FKC aims to help domestic workers improve their lives and build a sense of community and belonging.
The Filipino Kasambahay Club has grown rapidly since its establishment, with 479 members and recognition as an organization under the Filipino Social Club in Dubai. By offering a platform for education, socialization, and emotional support, FKC is making a positive impact on the lives of domestic workers in Dubai. Villao’s vision for the club is to continue empowering Filipino kasambahay and providing them with opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through initiatives like ‘Mareng Tess Day’, FKC is fostering a community of support, camaraderie, and empowerment among Filipino domestic workers in Dubai.
