Remittance

Remittance tells the story of Marie, a young mother who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and perseverance in the pursuit of a better life. Her narrative is a poignant reflection of the struggles faced by many migrant workers, particularly women, who leave their homes in search of economic stability and a brighter future for themselves and their families. Born and raised in the Philippines, Marie is a woman whose life has been marked by hardship and resilience. After being betrayed by her husband, who has abandoned her, Marie is left to fend for herself and her children. In a desperate attempt to support her family, she decides to take a job as a maid in Singapore, a decision that requires her to leave behind everything she has ever known. Upon arrival in Singapore, Marie is struck by the stark contrast between her new environment and the rural landscape of the Philippines. The bustling streets, modern skyscrapers, and sophisticated lifestyle of the city are a far cry from the poverty-stricken villages she has left behind. Despite the initial culture shock, Marie is determined to make the most of this new opportunity and prove herself as a capable and resourceful individual. As Marie navigates her new role as a maid, she quickly discovers that her life in Singapore will be far from easy. Her employer, Mrs. Tan, is a strict and demanding woman who expects nothing but perfection from her employees. Marie is subjected to long hours of manual labor, meager wages, and limited access to basic amenities such as clean running water and electricity. The living conditions in Mrs. Tan's house are cramped and unsanitary, and Marie is forced to share a small room with several other maids. Despite these hardships, Marie remains determined to build a new life for herself in Singapore. She finds solace in her fellow maids, many of whom are also migrant workers, and together they form a support network that helps them cope with the challenges of their new environment. Marie also begins to learn new skills, including English and basic computer skills, which she hopes will enable her to secure a better-paying job in the future. As Marie becomes more confident in her abilities, she starts to explore the city and discover new experiences. She visits local markets, attends cultural festivals, and makes friends with her fellow maids. She also begins to dream of a better future for herself, one that includes financial stability, education, and independence. However, Marie's aspirations are soon put to the test when she receives news that her children in the Philippines are in need of financial support. Her husband, who has been absent throughout most of her time in Singapore, has fallen ill, and her children are struggling to survive on their own. With a heavy heart, Marie realizes that she must return to the Philippines to care for her children and ensure their well-being. The decision to leave Singapore and return to the Philippines is a difficult one for Marie. On the one hand, she has grown to love her life in Singapore and has formed strong bonds with her fellow maids and the community. On the other hand, she feels a deep sense of responsibility towards her children and knows that she cannot abandon them in their time of need. As Marie navigates the complexities of her decision, she is forced to confront the harsh realities of her past and the difficulties that lie ahead. She must choose between her personal aspirations and family responsibilities, a choice that will have far-reaching consequences for her future. Ultimately, Remittance is a powerful and poignant exploration of the struggles faced by migrant workers, particularly women, who leave their homes in search of a better life. Through Marie's story, the film shines a light on the injustices faced by these workers, including exploitation, abuse, and neglect. It also celebrates their resilience, determination, and resourcefulness, and offers a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. In the end, Marie's journey is one of sacrifice and selflessness, as she puts the needs of her children above her own personal aspirations. Her decision to return to the Philippines is a testament to the strength of her love and her commitment to her family, and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices that many migrant workers make in the pursuit of a better life for themselves and their loved ones.