Dubai's sins and errors

Some analysts in the UAE declared that Dubai's downfall was brought about by its over-reliance on the property sector. Religious leaders say that Dubai is being punished for its worldly excesses and aberrations. The lifestyles of some people there, mostly expats, are said to be bordering on hedonism. The city is said to be a weekend rest and "recreation" center, where a lot of "sinful" preoccupations were allegedly abetted and promoted by those in power.

The better explanation would be that Dubai imprudently rushed its development beyond the limits of sustainability. It ventured a lot into unchartered territories without prudent planning. It could be a case of reckless, and thoughtless plunge into unknown waters. The meltdown was a financial disaster waiting to happen.

Advice to OFWs

The OFWs, in Dubai who are ready to go home for good should do so now without further delay, and start reintegrating into the mainstream of Philippine society. They should help rebuild our nation from the devastation of floods, typhoons and other natural calamities, and from the ravages of dirty politics. Being ready to go home means that the OFWs have already saved enough for the future. And that they must have sufficient means to tide them over the next few years.

Those who are not yet ready can come to Kuwait. The future is brighter here although some employers may not be that excellent especially of the unskilled. We are encouraging the skilled workers to come.

The unskilled should go to TESDA before coming to the Middle East. OFW should not come here to work as DH or drivers. They should stay away from the Five Ds (dirty, difficult, dangerous, deceptive and degrading jobs).

They should not blame us if they find themselves in hot water. They could not say that we did not warn them. Up here is a heaven for the skilled workers. But a hell for the unskilled. Those who can not bring added value should not even think of going abroad and compete in very competitive labor markets.