Transcending Limits: The Lived Experiences of Repatriated Domestic Workers Of La Union

Abstract

This study employed a qualitative research design using a transcendental phenomenological approach to examine the lived experiences of ten repatriated domestic workers in La Union. Using purposive criterion sampling, participants were selected and interviewed through a semi-structured interview guide to gather in-depth insights into their challenges, coping mechanisms, and reasons for repatriation. Data were analyzed primarily through Colaizzi’s (1978) 7-step phenomenological method, supported by Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis procedures for coding and theme development. The findings revealed major socio-cultural, economic, and psychological challenges, including social isolation, restricted freedom, debt, financial insecurity, emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. Participants employed coping strategies such as faith and spiritual resilience, family-oriented motivation, social support, and financial discipline. The primary reasons for repatriation included physical and mental health deterioration, employer-employee conflict, unsafe work environments, and family-related concerns. Based on these findings, the study proposed the Sustained Resiliency and Reintegration Toolkit (SRRT) as a holistic intervention program to support the psychosocial, familial, and economic reintegration of repatriated domestic workers in La Union.