The Role of Filipino Migrant Workers in the Qatar Fifa Industry

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies Volume-5 Issue-2, February 2021

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CREATIVE RESEARCH AND STUDIES www.ijcrs.org ISSN-0249-4655

PLAYING FAIR: THE ROLE OF FILIPINO MIGRANT WORKERS IN THE QATAR FIFA INDUSTRY

Bobby Henerale, DALC 1,2, 3, Abad, Brian 1,2, 3, Borjal, Carl Patrick 1,2, 3, Cabrera, Elcid 1,2, 3, Facto, Jotham 1,2, 3, Rivera, Mark Angello 1,2, 3, Apolinario, Desire 1,2, 3, Avenido, Theone 1,2, 3, Sano, Maia Elise 1,2, 3, Ventura, Francesca 1,2, 3

1 Philippine School Doha, Doha, Qatar 2 Research Development, Accreditation and Publication Office, PSD, Doha, Qatar 3 Research Capstone Project, PSD, Doha, Qatar

Abstract This study underscores the Filipino migrant workers who are part of The Qatar Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC). It also stresses as to how they utilize their skills, knowledge, and passion which are contributing factors to the development of the event (Qatar FIFA 2022). Meanwhile, a phenomenological qualitative research design was utilized to have an in-depth understanding of the lived experience of the Filipino workers in the field. Data were gathered through thirty-seven semi-structured interviews, recorded, and then transcribed to emic-etic, leading to the development of the themes. Findings showed that these workers not only view the company solely for football, but rather an organization that brought the youth together and promoted respect as well as unity among the different cultures. It was found out that the achievement of every worker was valued much. It was revealed also that there was eagerness among the workers to work hard and stay within the company despite the stress and deadlines correlates to the SC providing programs. And the organization behind this made sure that their employees were well rewarded. The contribution of the Filipino workers was deemed vital in the development and finalization of the FIFA World Cup. The collaboration as well as perseverance in their respective fields in the SC, and other workers of different nationalities allowed Qatar to be resilient amidst the Gulf Blockade. The independence of the nation’s economy was further strengthened by the help of expatriates who worked hard to keep this vision afloat. Thus, it is recommended that students of any age should learn to be versatile, and open to acquire new knowledge and information as to develop various skills and a wider understanding of different fields, and cultures.

Keywords: Filipino migrant workers, Contribution, Qatar FIFA 2020, Qatar Blockade, Organization, Expatriates, Collaboration www.ijcrs.org Page | 27

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies ISSN-0249-4655

INTRODUCTION Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) is a well-known football association that is known to be the highest governing body of football (FIFA ,2020). On the 2nd of December 2010, Qatar became the first Middle Eastern country to host the global event (A. Bhoyrul, 2010; Georgetown University, Qatar, 2021). Ever since the FIFA World Cup, Qatar has begun making changes and adding more accommodations, expanding its roads for them to be prepared for the upcoming FIFA 2022.

One of those infrastructures is the Football Stadiums which is built and organized by the Qatar FIFA Industry.

Meanwhile, the Qatar Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) is an organization that prepares the country for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. FIFA’s vision is using the power of football to open the door to a world of an amazing experience. This means that they are going to help boost the economy of Qatar in the Future. The mission is to share Qatar’s culture through the FIFA World Cup. This means that they want to connect people and live in harmony. In this situation, SC to take charge of a big event will need a lot of workers.

The Overseas Filipino Workers OFW have been spreading around the globe, finding an opportunity to seek a better living. Filipinos are known for their culture and values that is why they are highly demanded in blue and white- collar jobs. A lot of Filipino expatriates are now working in Qatar having an estimate of 222,000 making it the fifth most popular spot for OFWs (Joey Aguilar, 2016).

This study revolves to the contributions of OFWs towards Qatar FIFA Industry and their benefits.

METHODS A. Research Design This study used qualitative research. This is an empirical research which is drawn from verifiable data (Punch, 1998). This is an instrument to gather data for the betterment of understanding a specific problem and to promulgate a better analysis and encourages people to think critically into problems. Moreover, qualitative research interviews seek to describe and the meanings of the central themes in the life world of the subjects. The main task in interviewing is to understand and interpret the meaning of what the interviewee says (Kvale, 1996).

To fully understand the recorded data, this study made use of a semi-structured type of interview. According to Semi- structured interviews allow the participants to explore issues they feel are important as the manner is more conversational (Clifford, Cope, Gillespie, & French, 2016). It is conducted with one person at a time and employs a blend of open-ended questions which is followed by follow-up how, or why questions to further discuss the topic.

The interview is done by voice recording with the consent of the participant, this allowed the researchers to accurately interpret, and take note of the participant’s lived experiences. The results were transcribed from the recording according to how the researcher understood the answer, then they were given to the teacher for evaluation. The final transcriptions were done by paraphrasing and organizing through Emic and Etic to give way to an organized transcription of recorded data.

To better understand the methods applied, this research made use of the phenomenological study; it is the study of the structures that affects the consciousness from the first-person point of view (Smith and Woodruff, 2018). It is where the qualitative approach focuses on the similar lived experiences of a group in a series of interviews (Creswell, 2013).

www.ijcrs.org Page | 28

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies Volume-5 Issue-2, February 2021

Research Locus and Sample

This research study was conducted at the school building of Philippine School Doha located at Al Messiah in the 2nd semester of school year 2019-2020. The researchers chose the locale mainly because of the resources that could be easily accessed in the facility. After the respondents had been interviewed, the researchers met up at the school to extract data and determined the themes for every answer.

Workers from the FIFA industry have been selected to be the participants with the following criteria: (a) They work within and for the Qatar FIFA industry (b) the participant is a Filipino (c) The participants should have worked in Qatar for 2 or more years.

The participants were interviewed privately through phone calls. The set up for the interview was thoroughly planned to make each recording clear and understandable. The interview was done this way due to the participants’ busy schedules, and location. A total of four participants were interviewed for this study, each varied in degree and specialization.

B. Data Collection and Ethical Consideration In the study, the researchers conducted a semi-structured interview. According to Doyle (2018), is an interview that does not necessarily need to follow a list of questions. They used an interview guide, to successfully gather the needed data and information. Prior to the interview, the researchers prepared a guide questionnaire to guide them on the topics or questions to be asked and discussed on that interview process.

The guide questions composed of 25 questions that answered the reason for OFW working in the Qatar FIFA industry. The researchers asked the participants for their time and experiences for the development of the study. It is guaranteed that their information is within good hands.

The researchers made sure that the confidentiality was executed completely in terms of the respondent’s information and the data they have allocated. This is required so that the researchers will not give out any information to others about the respondent’s identity, background information, and the data they have provided.

C. Data Analysis After gathering all data, the researchers then need to analyze and understand it. Since they constructed an interview with the voice recordings as their data, they transcribed all the answers of the respondents meticulously. After www.ijcrs.org Page | 29

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies ISSN-0249-4655 transcribing, the researchers then proceeded to the processing of emic and etic responses. They translated the answers of the respondents in a much simpler way or in a way that the researchers understood the answers. After this process, the researchers then recorded a warm analysis where they grouped all the similar answers in a particular question and themed all the similar answers. The themes formulated by the researchers were: (1) Personal Developments, (2) Collaboration, and (3) Sovereignty. After formulating these themes, the researchers were able to form the dendrogram which was found from their warm analysis. After the researchers formed a thought unit from the themes that were formed, it led them to the simulacrum.

FINDINGS

Figure 2: Qatar in the FIFA Industry

This phenomenological study describes the lived experiences of Filipino migrant workers within the Qatar FIFA industry relative to the central question. “What are the significant roles of Filipino workers in attaining the victory of Qatar FIFA industry?”.

Figure 2 presents the simulacrum centered on three major themes: Collaboration, Sovereignty, and Personal Development, with three corresponding sub themes under each topic. These themes highlight the experiences of the workers in their respective fields within the Qatar Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy. Moreover, this shows the development of these workers as they develop within the work field to achieve progress.

In addition, the simulacrum is designed with 3 borders where the outermost one is the themes that we the researchers have come up with when the researchers discussed their findings.

The 2nd border are the sub themes as they are all broken down which describe the Filipinos working on the projects relating to the FIFA industry.

www.ijcrs.org Page | 30

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies Volume-5 Issue-2, February 2021

Lastly, is the core center of which is the actual people behind the FIFA industry. Filipinos may play a small part, but they play a significant role in which there is strength in numbers and with the help of our host country Qatar, was able to achieve.

Sovereignty is red because it symbolizes love and passion to describe one’s devotion to both Qatar, their work as well as their love to the Philippines.

Personal Development is yellow, it means happiness, wellbeing, and health. The workers balance both their work and mental stability so that they could find it easy to get the job done with a healthy mindset.

Collaboration is in blue since it is associated with unity, peace, and freedom. Signifying that these Filipinos worked together from all walks of life as well as with other nationalities. After all, FIFA is an international event so a harmonic and collaborative company was present behind the scenes of the anticipated event.

SOVEREIGNTY Working overseas cultivates self-reliance, and a drive to persevere above all problems in order to do the job exceptionally. An individual may find themselves willingly adapting to their surroundings, leaning towards control in planning their next move as being abroad is already a risk taken, and a risk one cannot lose.

An overseas Filipino worker has the liberty to learn and step up to promote themselves in the job industry, showcasing their excellence in their respective fields to earn the trust of their peers. Independence showcases confidence in a person’s work, it showcases trust, less hesitation and a mindset that understands that anything can be achieved through hard work and determination. It is also a mind that can guide itself to a healthy mindset, and an understanding of the self and worth.

A. Visionary “I expect to learn a lot from my peers, and colleagues. Since this is an international company, I know that the employees are very knowledgeable, and would not hire someone who does not qualify.” (P4)

"I expect to learn a lot from my peers, and colleagues. Since this is an international company, I know that the employees are very knowledgeable, and would not hire someone who does not qualify.” (P4)

Which we the researchers have come to agree that the response of the participant adequately describes the subtheme of visionary under the main theme of sovereignty. The optimistic thinking of Filipino workers gives them self- confidence, empowering themselves for what may lie ahead.

B. Prime Prime, in this context, refers to the active stage in these OFWs' lives. It refers to their activeness in the projects and in their own lives. It represents how animated they are in the company’s events. Where being, and working, in Qatar exposes them to change, it shows them thriving while dealing with different situations and taking all these experiences to fuel their next move.

“My favorite part of working here is that it is more than just a football company, it brings together youth culture and program partners with the aim of showcasing football's power to unite communities and promote equal www.ijcrs.org Page | 31

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies ISSN-0249-4655

opportunities. As well as its accessibility and technical delivery where it brings people from all walks of life with skills to bring the vision of the stadiums to life.”

C. Authenticity Authenticity can be seen in one’s work, and actions, the researchers deemed this belongs to the workers because of the sincerity in what they do for the community.

It is with pride that they display their work no matter how small it is. “Yes, the diversity in the workforce helps us to understand different cultures and it was a great experience.” (P1)

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Change is inevitable for every individual, throughout the preparations the workers are not prone to the hardships, and the demands of being a FIFA worker, and an expatriate nonetheless.

To be able to develop oneself displays an adaptable mindset that is open to change, one that humbles themselves and strives to be better. The development of these Filipino workers can be attributed to their stay here in Qatar, as well as the need to adapt to their environment so as to fit in and cope.

A. Exploration Being explorative in this field allows an individual to discover more of themselves so as to grow. It allows analysis of the field, and brings familiarity to the self, and to their work which allows more options to development. If ever a worker lacks this trait their full potential would never be realized, boundaries would not widen, and the understanding would be limited.

The will to explore brings more to the self, and these Filipino workers understood this through their migration from the Philippines to Qatar. This trait was realized when they were able to reap the rewards of their labor and sacrifice.

“It is so emotionally satisfying to be properly compensated financially from all your hard work. My career fulfils me as a person as it provides financial stability that entitles me to a lot of convenience at work, and at home.”

This response describes how the participant is able to be in the right mindset of thinking beyond the concept of work and salary to see it as a way for them to be able to spend quality time with their loved ones, making the participant explore more as their basic needs are already met and satisfied.

B. Curiosity The researchers describe the sub-theme Curiosity under the theme Personal Development. The participant can be read as someone who learns much more as they are being settled into their job in the FIFA industry. They are henceforth curious as they are able to learn not just the workforce of the industry, but also discover more about the culture of Qatar.

“Cultural heritage with the particular focus on water and energy efficiency and a commitment to maintaining architectural and cultural heritage the venues such as Althumama and Albay stadium in Al Khor city will represent Qatar’s his history while embracing the most state of the art practices to ensure there will be arenas to ensure every weekend another thing is the water conservation in capturing condensing water from the pulling systems and using it in irrigation using treated sewage influent water www.ijcrs.org Page | 32

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies Volume-5 Issue-2, February 2021

for the suppression and using 40% less water than conventional stadiums the venue for 2022 have water conservation as a top priority.” (P2)

It leads to the engagement in their work, which in itself is rewarding. “It was amazing because when I came to Qatar 15 years ago the infrastructure of the country was not developed and comparing it today we can tell it’s a big difference.” (P2)

“When I saw the stadium, I thought it was a masterpiece. It is so impressive with the level of detail that had gone into the planning, and accessibility point of view. It is such a futuristic looking structure, it almost appears to be sitting on a stage from afar, but when you enter and approach the stage, you will get engaged with the spaces and its curves which keeps you wondering what is around a bend.” (P1)

“Yes, because all aspects of the project are very interesting there's just so much to learn from it.” (P2)

C. Opportunity Seeking Seeking opportunities is the initiation of an action, it leads to opportunity seizing henceforth the start of something new.

“To maximize learning through opportunities provided by our company to employees. I would attend all the training courses that will be offered to me while working here.” (P1)

Qatar was able to turn the blockade into an opportunity for its citizens. Encouraging local talents to develop and entrepreneurs to be active in the diversification of the economy so that the country can compete in the global market.

“The blockade proved to be a challenge turned opportunity. There is an event called “Moushtarayat’’, the Arabic word for curements, is organized in line with the Qatar national rendition 2030 to develop local talent and create a cooperative environment for a Qatari entrepreneur. It also encourages local ES, and Es to be active contributors to the economy’s diversification, helping develop the vital experience, resources, and skills required to compete in global markets.” (P4)

COLLABORATION A project that is as profound as the FIFA 2022 requires the collaboration of workers and specialists of different fields to execute every plan for proper development. It allows input, develops team building and effective communication thus allowing everyone to be knowledgeable. These qualities allow a company to work harmoniously as a company functions with the joint efforts of its employees, allowing a faster and more efficient way to advance projects.

Despite the pressure, and demands the possibility of success increases, not only does it create teamwork, an individual can also assimilate the skills and expertise of their colleagues. Communities, and support groups also make use of this theme as it unites these people together in all trials of life.

A. Unity Unity is crucial in the workplace, and among peers to have a strong foundation in every project. It does not often prevent discourse, or pressures but it binds people together to overcome any hurdles that can lower the chances of success from every individual. This is applied in every moment, it helps deliver the best, and helps maintain professionalism and camaraderie in the workplace. It also allows feedback to correct any mistakes.

www.ijcrs.org Page | 33

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies ISSN-0249-4655

“Our company is simply not a football events project, it also has great roles in communities through various projects like ‘The Generation Amazing’ which is held on an annual basis in countries; this project brings together youth coaches, and program partners with aim of showcasing football’s power to unite communities, and promote equal opportunities.” (P4) “It also provides an opportunity to gather feedback and recommendations to ensure the tournament will reflect Qatar’s cultural diversity.” (P4)

The worker’s eagerness to push forward and work harder was brought by the support and encouragement they have for each other.

“Most of all, the team members are very supportive and naturally kind hearted and friendly. We just regularly aim to achieve our goals no matter how complex or difficult it may be. I really like working with people who are committed to getting things done and who are passionate about their work.” (P1)

The openness of their environment to different people allowed these workers to learn more about each other's experiences and cultures. This allowed workers to be more appreciative of everyone and everything around them.

“Yes, the diversity in the workforce helps us to understand different cultures and it was a great experience.” (P1)

B. Perseverance To be able to carry on, and learn from mistakes to do better is perseverance. Despite the failures and difficulties, one always chooses to continue its work because they know there is a greater good to be achieved. It was because of this, OFWs got what they dreamed when they came to Qatar or in any other country, earning the respect of every Filipino, or whoever it be.

The contributions of the Filipinos would not be considered integral if it was not for their perseverance to understand the job they have been given. It is with this perseverance that allowed the Filipinos to fulfill any task, to be adaptable, to earn the reputation of being excellent in what they do.

“I believe the greatest aspect of Filipinos is the desire to learn and maximize opportunities of learning no matter where we work Filipinos all over the world have a reputation for being excellent employees.” (P2) “We all know that you will more likely see the Filipino staff’s strong family values through their strong commitment to family abroad. Values of respect, hard work, are heavily influenced by their personal relations to their families which they then carry over to their professional lives.” (P4)

Though, perseverance develops reliance and an ideal for a worker to always be immense in their work. Often, this reliance on that ideal makes other people think these particular workers can always commit, and keep working, be better than the other sometimes it is because of their race, or gender. That is where work can be unevenly distributed, and more will follow into that mindset even if they are perfectly capable of doing the job themselves. It is not always candid in the workplace.

“Many females are known for being self-sufficient and hard working. Since they know that you are capable of doing anything, they tend to hand over all the work to us.” (P1)

www.ijcrs.org Page | 34

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies Volume-5 Issue-2, February 2021

C. Self- Sufficient Self-sufficiency is an act to be independent in one’s work or abilities; it gives an individual self-worth, and confidence through anything. The workers needed this to deliver the best of their abilities, and knowledge, otherwise their coworkers would see that they are not fit to this type of work, or that they are not competent enough to earn this job.

Being an OFW requires this trait as well, to live in another country where everything is new, and the Filipino is all alone they need to do everything themselves to survive. To be sufficient enough for themselves, this allows them to be sufficient for their loved ones, and friends as well.

“As the document controller for the FIFA world cup it provides support to my team members to ensure that all documentations for our project is done at all times and on.” (P2)

Throughout the blockade back in 2018, the Qatar Government displayed its self-sufficiency by doing what they could to maintain its growth as well as to continue plans for the FIFA 2022.

“I think the procurement of materials overseas was greatly affected by the blockade. However, our company has pledged more than 700 million QAR exclusively for small and medium local enterprises to enable them to be involved in the country’s tournament preparations, staging, and legacy plans.” (P1) “Yes. The Qatar Government has given all their efforts, and money to ensure that these projects will be successful. The blockade may have negatively impacted Qatar, but the country was able to be resilient, and urgently act on what must be done, and plan to ensure that the vision is achieved.” (P4)

DISCUSSION The FIFA World Cup is the most anticipated event in Qatar, with three stadiums already done and six more on the way the country’s development continues to soar as time goes by. Behind every company’s success are passionate people who work hard to achieve these goals, and within those people are overseas Filipino workers.

Filipinos are scattered all over Qatar, and the researchers choose to utilize the opportunity to interview Filipino FIFA employees to understand and to know what kind of contributions and experiences they have achieved while working. As the developments are growing, this study also wishes to highlight the world-class Filipino talents in dealing with foreign events, and the adaptability knowing that the FIFA 2022 will be one of the biggest events of the year.

The chosen employees were interviewed with the central and developmental questions, along with the data earned, the researchers were able to procure the three main themes mainly: Sovereignty, Personal Development, and Collaboration.

To further understand this study, this section discusses the concepts of the Qatar FIFA industry and the role of Filipino Migrant workers.

QATAR FIFA INDUSTRY Qatar FIFA industry is an organization that is responsible for the preparation of the upcoming 2022 FIFA world cup. Not only to prepare football stadiums to be used in the event, but it also contributes to the country’s economy. The country’s economy will most likely boost given that the influx of visitors and participants will be caused by the events in FIFA. Their vision is to use the power of football to open the door to a world of amazing experiences. Their mission is to share Qatar’s culture through the FIFA World Cup, which aims to connect people from all walks www.ijcrs.org Page | 35

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies ISSN-0249-4655 of life and live in harmony. The Supreme Committee take charge of the large event would require many workers (Qatar Supreme Committee, 2019).

FILIPINO MIGRANT WORKERS There are over 10 million Filipinos currently working abroad. About 10 percent of the population of overseas workers have helped develop the economy. Between 2011 and 2016, the Philippine GDP increased by 6 percent allowing the Philippines to withstand calamities and political crises (Philippine Statistics Authority, 2020).

International communities gave positive feedback to the way OFWs perform in their work, describing them as ‘hardworking’ and ‘adaptable’. By the latter half of the 1970s, the Philippine Government developed laws, institutions, and policies to protect these workers. These new laws encouraged more deployment of Filipino workers; as a result, the Philippines became one of the most sought-after sources of workers and talent (Asis, 2017). In the Middle East, there are about 2.22 million workers present (Thepinoyofw.com, 2020; theglobalfilipinomagazine, 2020).

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE As defined in Section 3 of the Republic Act. 10801, Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) refers to a person who is to be engaged, is engaged, or has been engaged in a remunerated activity in a State of which the person is not a citizen or onboard a vessel navigating the foreign seas other than a government ship used for military or non-commercial purposes. It is also a term used to refer to Filipino migrant workers residing outside of the Philippines for a limited period (Compare Remit, 2020). Filipino workers leave the country to earn a sustainable income, a condition that is difficult or inadequate in the Philippines (Garcia, 2004).

Lara (2018) states that Overseas Filipino workers are noted as “Bagong Bayani.” Hence, there are various reasons why. The amount of remittances sent to the Philippines increases the dollar reserves, boosting the economy to grow. As well as give their families a chance to improve their lives.

In line with this, there are advantages that a Filipino can gain in working abroad. These include exposure to new things, gaining international experiences, acquiring critical life skills, and representing the Philippines. First, working abroad introduces a person to new cultures, new places, new people, and new lifeways. Thus, enabling the person to expand its perspective on the different aspects of life, society, and diversity towards an international environment. Second, gaining international experience allows OFWs to establish an international network that they can use for future purposes whilst enhancing their resumes, making them more marketable as a job applicant. Third, being an OFW improves a Filipino’s independence; it teaches them various skills that they may be learning precisely, such as cooking, planning, handling challenges, etc., due to this independence. Lastly, becoming an OFW allows a person to represent the Philippines and show the world how capable Filipinos are. Hence, making a positive impact on the impression of other nationalities on our country and fellow Filipinos (Kenji L, 2017).

The Philippine government also gives OFWs benefits to acknowledge the efforts and sacrifices in the foreign country. Some of these benefits would be a Housing Loan from SSS or PAG-IBIG, Free Language Courses at TESDA, and OWWA Benefits (Lara, 2018).

The Philippines has become a dominant source for international migrants and become one of the largest sending countries of labor to various countries in the world (Garcia, 2004). As said in the results of the 2019 Survey on Overseas Filipinos by the Philippine Statistics Authority, the number of Overseas Filipino Workers working abroad at any time from April to September 2019 is estimated at 2.2 million. Saudi Arabia remains the most preferred

www.ijcrs.org Page | 36

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies Volume-5 Issue-2, February 2021 destination of OFWs during the said period, succeeded by the United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, and Taiwan (Mapa, 2020).

Meanwhile, the Qatar Supreme Committee for Delivery & legacy (SC) is the host for the most awaited event, FIFA 2022. SC's goal is to represent Qatar and its tradition to the world through its love for Football. Through this, people will share the unforgettable memories that the SC will offer. And also, there are benefits of hosting a well-known tournament, giving honor and benefit to Qatar’s hosting country.

FIFA, also known as Federation Internationale de Football, is a well-known sports association that hosts a world tournament of Football. FIFA was founded in London in 1963; Football in Great Britain was ahead of the sport in the 1960s, Britain became a significant influence on the rest of the world. In the World Cup, Football advanced drastically, making it one of the biggest sports ever played across nations.

There are theoretical views in the minority groups of sports. Eron Shor (2010) states that “The First sees sport as a field that brings together different groups in society and bridges class, ethnic, and racial divides.”, In this view, minority sports stars serve both as a role model for young people from their ethnic groups as well as a mouthpiece voicing the feelings and needs of their people,” meaning Football in the middle east is like their second religion. It is a way for the different gulf nations to be at peace with each other through their Football of love.

CONCLUSION As the population of OFWs working and living abroad increased, demands for expatriates specializing in blue- and white-collar jobs in Qatar increased as well. The preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Tournaments in 2022 provided a prospect of numerous job opportunities for Filipino expatriates in Qatar.

Personal development has a profound effect on Filipino expatriates living in Qatar. Filipinos are known for their culture of hard work, adaptability and perseverance; thus, they develop new experiences and skills while working abroad. This is observed in the experiences of Exploration by Filipino expatriates living in a different environment. With Exploration comes Curiosity, the expectations being set and the lessons learned during their time abroad. Being an overseas worker means facing different cultural mindsets in an unfamiliar environment. The increasing demands of workers in various occupations led Filipinos to become Opportunity Seeking.

Collaboration between the Filipino workers involved in the FIFA World Cup preparations and the committee and organization involved is crucial in achieving the goal of completing the preparations. With the help of Filipino workers, Qatar achieves Self-sufficiency in preparing and constructing its projects. The Perseverance of the Filipino workers in their field of work, as well as the nation striving for an enriched economy amidst the Gulf Blockade, helped in developing the plans for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Tournaments. The Unity of the country’s workers and organizations helped to attain the ambitious 2030 project’s aspirations step by step.

Despite being greatly affected politically and economically by the Gulf blockade for 4 years, Qatar’s Sovereignty did not thwart as the nation learned to be more independent, self-reliant, and capable of producing local materials and goods. A goal will not be achieved without a Visionary mindset of the heads of organizations and the Filipino Expatriates alike. With the lent expertise of experienced Filipino workers in the country, Qatar was able to bring to life its projects across the nation. With independence and self-reliance being its Prime, the country was able to develop and build project plans for the upcoming 2022 Tournaments and the 2030 Vision. Ever since the blockade commenced, Qatar began to search for means to keep the economy thriving, striving for local Authenticity while constructing and developing projects for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Tournaments and the 2030 Vision.

www.ijcrs.org Page | 37

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies ISSN-0249-4655

The researchers recommend this to students to learn skills in versatility and be open to new learnings and experiences as it allows the development of skills and team building. Plans and projects such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup projects connect people of different cultures and allow understanding in different fields and sectors wherever anyone will be.

Lastly, the researchers also recommend this study to fellow Filipinos who express wish to work and become expatriates in Qatar. Seeking of job opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises involved in the 2022 World Cup events and the 2030 Vision would be an advantage.

REFERENCES 1) Asis, M. M. B. (2017, November 30). The Philippines: Beyond Labor Migration, Toward Development and (Possibly) Return. Retrieved from https://www.migrationpolicy.org/article/philippines-beyond-labor- migration-toward-development-and-possibly-return

2) Aguilar, J. (2013, September 12). Number of Filipino workers declines in Qatar. Retrieved October 17, 2020, from https://www.gulf-times.com/story/365538/Number-of-Filipino-workers-declines-in-Qatar

3) Bhoyrul, A. (2010, December 2). Qatar becomes first Arab host of the FIFA World Cup. ArabianBusiness/Industries. Retrieved December 7, 2019, from https://www.arabianbusiness.com/qatar- becomes-first-arab-host-of-fifa-world-cup-365310.html

4) Calzado, R. J. (2007, October 08). LABOUR MIGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT GOALS: THE PHILIPPINE EXPERIENCE. https://www.iom.int/jahia/webdav/shared/shared/mainsite/microsites/IDM/workshops/global_labour_mobility _0809102007/presentations/paper_calzado.pdf

5) Clifford, N. J., Cope, M., Gillespie, T. W., & French, S. (2016). Key methods in geography (3rd ed.). London, UK: SAGE. doi: Google Scholar

6) Contribution Of The OFW To The Philippine Economy. (2020, April 09). CompareRemit. Retrieved January 20, 2021, from https://www.compareremit.com/money-transfer-guide/contribution-of-the-ofw-to-the- philippines-economy/

7) Creswell, J. W., & Poth, C. N. (2018). Qualitative inquiry & research design: choosing among five approaches. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE.

8) Doyle A (2018). What Is a Semi-Structured Interview? Retrieved from https://www.thebalancecareers.com/what-is-a-semi-structured-interview-2061632

9) FIFA.com, N. (n/a). Who we are. Retrieved October 17, 2020, from https://www.fifa.com/who-we-are/vision/

10) Fitzsimmons, S. R., Baggs, J., & Brannen, M. Y. (2020). Intersectional arithmetic: How gender, race and mother tongue combine to impact immigrants’ work outcomes. Journal of World Business, 55(1). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwb.2019.101013

11) Garcia, M. V. C. (2004). The Overseas Filipino Workers’ (OFW) Identity: Local Modern Day Heroes or Global Servants? Capstone Collection. https://digitalcollections.sit.edu/capstones/817 www.ijcrs.org Page | 38

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies Volume-5 Issue-2, February 2021

12) Infantino, G. (2020, February 26). Making Football Truly Global: The Vision 2020- 2023 [PDF]. Zurich, Switzerland: Fédération Internationale de Football Association.

13) Kvale, S. (1996). Interviews: An introduction to qualitative research interviewing. Thousand Oaks (California), CA: Sage Publications. doi: Reasearchgate.net

14) L, K. (2017, September 30). COOL TIP #053: SEVEN (7) ADVANTAGES OF BEING AN OFW. OFW ON AIR. Retrieved January 20, 2021, from https://www.ofwonair.com/cool-tip-053-seven-7-advantages-of-being- an-ofw/

15) Naughton, J. (2020, January 27). The World's Most Watched Sporting Events SportsNewsIreland SportsNewsIreland Live Scores. Retrieved October 17, 2020, from https://www.sportsnewsireland.com/soccer/soccer_world/the-worlds-most-watched-sporting-events/

16) https://resources.fifa.com/image/upload/making-football-truly-global-the-vision-2020- 2023.pdf?cloudid=z25oyskjgrxrudiu7iym

17) Punch, K. (1998). Introduction to social research: quantitative & qualitative approaches.

18) Refai, R., & Abdelaziz, M. (2017, October). The impact of FIFA’s official announcements on the stock market of Qatar: The case of the 2022 World Cup. Retrieved January/February 2019, from Elsevier B.V.

19) Reinecke, Hofmann (2016) Human Communication Research. Retrieved from https://academic.oup.com/hcr/article-abstract/42/3/441/4064735

20) Rehnke, E. C., MD. (2015, April 09). The Most Watched Sporting Events in the World. Retrieved October 17, 2020, from https://ernestcrehnkemd.wordpress.com/2015/04/09/the-most-watched-sporting-events-in-the- world/

21) Riordan, J. (2002). The International Politics of Sport in the Twentieth Century. https://books.google.com.ph/books?id=XGV4AgAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&dq=The+International+Poli tics+of+Sport+in+the+Twentieth+Century&hl=fil&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi5jqujia3uAhWaL6YKHUwHBhQ Q6AEwAHoECAMQAg#v=onepage&q=The%20International%20Politics%20of%20Sport%20

22) Robson (2011). A Critical Review Of Qualitative Interviews. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/280155117_A_Critical_Review_of_Qualitative_Interviews

23) Shor, E. (Ed.). (2010, May). In Search of a Voice: Arab Soccer Players in the Israeli Media. Viewpoints Special Edition Sports and the Middle East, 8. https://www.mei.edu/sites/default/files/publications/Sports%20in%20ME.pdf

24) Smith, D. W. (2013, December 16). Phenomenology. Retrieved from https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/phenomenology/

25) Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy. (2019). Retrieved October 17, 2020, from https://qatar2022- qa.org/

26) Theglobalfilipinomagazine, C. (2020, May 05). Population of OFWs in the Middle East reached more than 2 million as of January 2020. Retrieved October 25, 2020, from https://www.theglobalfilipinomagazine.com/2020/05/05/population-of-ofws-in-middle-east-reaches-more- than-2-million-as-of-january-2020/ www.ijcrs.org Page | 39

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies ISSN-0249-4655

27) The Pinoy Ofws. (2020, February 07). Total Population of Filipinos in the Middle East. Retrieved October 25, 2020, from https://thepinoyofw.com/filipino-population-middle-east/

28) The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) is well advanced in the implementation of host country operations for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. (n.d.). Retrieved January 20, 2021, from https://www.qatar2022.qa/en/about?fbclid=IwAR12bHW0_gvtkIs_rQp6MxHE6wbBgYh85mpup- uihaKrMwvUXBeuIVxNR-Y

29) The Peninsula, Q. (2019, December 31). Latest progress update from QATAR'S FIFA World Cup 2022 Stadiums. Retrieved February 08, 2021, from https://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/31/12/2019/Latest- progress-update-from-Qatar%E2%80%99s-FIFA-World-Cup-2022-stadiums

30) Waters (2017). Phenomenological Research Guidelines. Retrieved from https://www.scribd.com/document/364346010/Phenomenological-Research-Guidelines

31) Wyse (2011). Difference Between Qualitative And Quantitative Analysis And How It Should Be Applied In Our Research. Retrieved from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/299487761_Difference_Between_Qualitative_And_Quantitative_A nalysis_And_How_It_Should_Be_Applied_In_Our_Research

GLOSSARY OF TERMS These terms were defined operationally according to the study in order to facilitate better understanding. Dendrogram is a tree diagram that shows relationships. Emic relates to an approach to a certain study investigating how local people or a specific culture think. Etic relates to an approach to a certain study pertaining to how the investigator understands or perceives a certain group or culture. External Factors are the outside forces and sources to the production of a result FIFA World Cup (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) is an international association football competition contested by the senior men's national teams of the members of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association, the sport's global governing body. Internal Factors are the inside forces contributing to the production of a result Media Influence is an external factor focusing on the reason for media. Phenomenology is a qualitative research study that focuses on a lived experience of individuals. Purposive sampling is a non-probability sample or method of selecting a participant. Qualitative is a study in which there is an instrument to gather data in the course of understanding a human behavior or any specific problem. This is to promulgate a better and deeper analysis. A semi-structured interview consists of an interview guide which enlists the topics and questions which will be later on discussed and asked by the interviewer to the respondents.

www.ijcrs.org Page | 40

International Journal of Creative Research and Studies Volume-5 Issue-2, February 2021

WORDS OF GRATITUDE We the researchers have worked to accomplish this research so that it may teach and give insight on Filipinos working overseas here in Qatar however, we could not have done it without the following people:

Sir Derek Vallesteros, for inspiring us and cheering us on from the sidelines when we are down.

Sir Allen Rosima, for helping us unite our different ideals into one cohesive thought as well as seeing our potential in teamwork.

Sir Bobby Henerale, our research adviser, for keeping us in line as well as for his constructive criticism that shaped our minds to be better researchers as well as better writers.

To our previous group mates who are not in Philippine School Doha anymore, Mark Rivera, and Jotham Facto, for being there to help us even if they are not in the same school, giving us positivity as well as strengthening our teamwork in times of hardships.

Lastly, our Lord and Savior, God, we cannot overcome this task without his grace and presence within us all.