"As a leader in my community, I want to be a shining example for other migrant domestic workers—showing them how vital it is to know their self-worth and stand up for their rights. Commitment isn’t just a choice; it’s a powerful decision to claim the respect and dignity we all deserve."
Biography
My name is Ma. Cristina, and I was born in 1985 in Metro Manila, Philippines. I grew up in a humble home with my grandparents, one of seven siblings. Life was never easy for us. There were days when we struggled to find enough food or afford even the simplest things, like transportation to school. But my grandmother’s love and unwavering determination kept us going — she did everything she could to provide for us, no matter how hard the circumstances.
I pursued my studies in Business Management at Metro Tagaytay College of Business and Arts, but sadly, I had to leave school before finishing because my parents couldn’t afford to support my education. That was a painful sacrifice, but I knew I had to find a way to help my family survive and thrive.
I am a mother to a beautiful daughter, and later in life, I got married. Like many others, I sought opportunities abroad to give my family a better future. I worked as a domestic worker in Qatar and Dubai, places far from home, where the distance made the sacrifice even heavier. It was not always easy — the loneliness, the challenges, and the struggles came with the job. But through it all, I held onto hope and strength.
My life began to change when I found The Voice of Domestic Workers. This organisation became a source of comfort and empowerment for me. They taught me about my rights — about the respect and dignity I deserve as a domestic worker. More than that, they showed me how to protect myself and how to stand tall in the face of hardship.
Today, I am proud to be an active leader in the Trade Union Working Group. I continue to serve my community by raising awareness about our rights and campaigning passionately for the causes that matter to us. Every step I take is a step toward justice, dignity, and hope for all domestic workers.
Now, I am deeply honored and excited to join the Future Voices Revolution 2025. This programme is a new chapter — a powerful opportunity to grow, to learn, and to amplify our voices even further. I want to use this platform to inspire others, to lead with confidence, and to continue fighting for the rights and respect that every migrant domestic worker deserves.
This is not just my journey — it is our journey. Together, we are stronger. Together, our voices will be heard.
