Pinay domestic helper in Dubai self-publishes book of poetry

A Filipina domestic helper in Dubai, UAE, self-published her book of poems based on her life experiences.

Filipina domestic helper Ester Vargas Castillo self-published her book titled “Biriterang Makata,” which recounted her experiences with poverty and bullying, according to Athena Imperial’s “24 Oras Weekend” report on Saturday.

Castillo shared that she had been fond of writing poetry since she was a child. She still strove to write even as she worked as a domestic helper and acquired COVID-19.

“Kailangan lang talaga maniwala sa sarili at magtiwala sa Diyos dahil kung meron yung dalawang ‘yan, ma-accomplish lahat ng pangarap nila, dream big,” Castillo said.

(We must trust ourselves and trust God, because if we have these both, we will accomplish our dreams. Dream big.)

She also thanked her employers for giving her time to write her book.

Through her book, Castillo said she wanted to inspire ordinary Filipinos to fulfill their dreams no matter their difficulties and challenges. — Richa Allyssa Noriega/DVM, GMA News