Work related conditions and coping strategies of domestic workers: The case of SUMAPI members in Iloilo City

Abstract

This study on domestic workers sought to describe the work related conditions and coping strategies of SUMAPI members in Iloilo City. Among the variables considered are the socio demographic characteristics and profile of their respective parents; reasons of engaging in domestic works; socio-economic characteristics of employers; working conditions, type of domestic works performed, compensation, time allocation, treatment, privileges and benefits; and the problems they encountered and their coping strategies. The research was focused mainly on the in-school domestic workers of SUMAPI organization in Iloilo City. Respondents were chosen from four (4) national high schools in Iloilo City, namely: Jaro National High School, Lapaz National High School, Mandurriao National High School and Iloilo City National High School. Apart from administered questionnaire, additional data were gathered by the researcher thru Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with officers of the organization and in depth-interview with key informants including former staff of Visayan Forum, Kasambahay Advisers and former social work field workers. Analysis of the data was both qualitative and quantitative. Actual stories and narratives were used as basis for the case studies.