Unspoken Longings: Unveiling the Emotional Journeys of Learners with Overseas Filipino Workers Parents

Parental labor migration has become a defining feature of many Filipino families, creating economic opportunities while simultaneously generating psychosocial challenges for children left behind. This study explored the emotional journeys of elementary learners with Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) parents at San Jose Elementary School, Norala 3 District, South Cotabato, during the School Year 2024–2025. Using a qualitative approach and a single case study design, the study examined the experiences of five Grade 5 and Grade 6 learners selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis and were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method. The findings revealed that learners experienced significant emotional challenges characterized by loneliness, longing, emotional distress, and early assumption of household responsibilities due to parental absence. Despite these difficulties, participants demonstrated resilience through various coping mechanisms, including support from extended family members, friendships, faith and prayer, self-comfort strategies, and maintaining hope for future family reunification. Furthermore, the learners transformed their experiences of parental separation into motivation for academic achievement, personal growth, and emotional maturity. They perceived education as a pathway toward honoring their parents' sacrifices and improving their family's future circumstances. The study concludes that although parental migration exposes children to emotional vulnerabilities, supportive relationships and positive coping strategies can foster resilience and psychological well-being. The findings provide empirical evidence for developing school-based counseling programs, psychosocial interventions, and family support initiatives that address the unique needs of learners with OFW parents and promote their holistic development and educational success.