 Filipina
are raised to be very proper and polite. This means an
unexpected telephone call from a stranger is very uncomfortable and we not sure how to act
or what to say. This makes it more likely to go badly and hurt start of relationship. So
1st write a nice letter introducing yourself. I have a sample
to guide you but better to use your own style. Just keep it simple, plain English
and while you should tell of yourself avoid "life story" or "sound like
bragging." Put your phone number in letter and say if she calls you, you will
get her number and call her right back to talk. Also in letter ask her what is best times
to call as often girl does not have a phone in her family's house. Card at left is best I
find if calling from USA. Some girls (especially Hong Kong) calling 1st is OK - just
be careful, OK?
When
calling OCW (Overseas Contract
Worker - sometimes called OFW) keep following in mind:
- Technically they are always working
except for Sundays
- They are using their boss' phone
& must keep it short
- Private phones are usually cellular
and cost her US 16¢ per minute to receive calls
- OCW workers only make about
US$400 a month
- Be careful about time
difference. We are 12 hours (13 during "daylight savings months) ahead of NYC,
USA
- Chinese bosses are very strict on
Filipina helpers so please be understanding. For example, if she has to
hang-up often to answer her boss's phone calls. Many times she must keep her
cellular phone secret from her boss.
- Calling rates now much lower if use
good phone card. Rates
5¢
per minute HK & 6¢ Philippines from USA
is best deal I know at this time.
- SEARCH ENGINE to find best calling rates to ANY country & cards to call home when
you travel overseas
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| The chapter entitled The
Country and Its People is an excellent account of our history. Lots
of beautiful color pictures on high quality paper. Read this one before you leave & take
Lonely Planet guide with you. |
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