Biogesic Banig-Bayan: Our answer to ‘Who cares for the carer?’

We’ve come across many OFW stories one way or another. Still among us are those who have romantic notions of the kind of lives they have abroad. People could not see past the pasalubongs and the happy photos OFWs post online, which is worrisome because in reality not all OFWs live the good life abroad. But they would not talk about it. Some would not share their every day situations abroad and would rarely admit that they get lonely.

Their reason is understandable. They naturally display strength because most of the time, they are all their families have. They expect themselves to be the strong-willed ones because they have to in order to provide their family the best life. Their hopes and dreams are for those they left behind. They are, in fact, the prime epitome of a caregiver.

But even carers need caring. And honestly, they are the ones who need it most.

What we know is this: The reason why Skype and Messenger are one of the most used apps by OFWs is because these somehow make them feel like they never left. It is their temporary remedy for longing and missing out. Still, it falls short in making them feel the care and love from home–– especially at a time like Christmas.

And we thought, if Home would make their Christmas, yet they could not come home for it, let us send home to them. So in the spirit of giving, Biogesic wanted to move families to care for their ultimate providers, the givers of care who are thousands of kilometers away. And we did this through the very first Biogesic Banig-bayan program.

Inspired by the balik-bayan box, Biogesic created a special package for families here to carry items they would want to send. It could hold anything from items they miss from home to symbols of life events OFWs would wish they were a part of––truly pieces of home that would make their Christmas whole.

The Banig-bayan carries the message that Ingat and care would still be felt even if they are apart. Biogesic inspired families to make their OFWs feel they are loved, remembered, and missed. And by the deep expressions of gratitude, heart-tugging stories, and tears of joy, the Banig-bayans would make all the difference for their Christmas to be truly merry and immensely felt.

Submit your story at www.banigbayan.com.