Everything a PWD Needs to Have a Thriving Remote Career in The PH

The rise of remote work has been a blessing for many Filipinos, especially Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).

Unlike traditional jobs that subject PWDs to commuting difficulties, few support systems, and limited professional growth, remote work opens many new opportunities for them.

In remote work, PWDs enjoy greater flexibility, better career development prospects, and access to tech tools and online resources tailored to their needs.

Work from home jobs also allows PWDs to participate in the workforce without being hindered by physical barriers and social stigma.

Want to join the growing number of PWDs in remote work?

Here’s a comprehensive overview of everything a PWD needs for a successful remote career in the Philippines.

Who Are Considered PWDs?

Before we start, let’s first discuss who counts as PWDs in the eyes of the government.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) defines a PWD as:

“… those suffering from restrictions or different abilities, as a result of a mental and sensory impairment, to perform an activity in the manner within the range considered normal for a human being, male or female, 0-59 years of age.”

Here are the different types of PWDs according to law:

1. Physically Disabled:

• Visually Impaired,
• Hearing Impaired,
• Orthopedically Disabled, and
• Other Physical Disabilities (cleft palate, hareclip which affects their speech).

2. Mentally Disabled:

• Improved Mental Patients,
• Mentally Retarded,
• Autistic,
• Attention Deficit Disorder, and
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Government and NGO Support

Many PWD workers depend on strong support from the government and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to help them find jobs.

Here’s how:

Government Support:

Agencies like the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) offer training programs to help PWD workers gain high-demand skills in remote-friendly fields like IT and digital marketing.

Furthermore, under Republic Act No. 9442, PWD employees are entitled to a PWD ID, allowing them to avail of special perks and privileges.

These include a 20% discount and Value Added Tax (VAT) exemption as well as express lanes for PWDs.

Government Mandates to Allow PWDs Equal Opportunity to Work

More importantly, the Philippines has laws like the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons and for Other Purposes (RA7277) that protect the rights of PWDs in the Philippines and prohibit discrimination against PWDs in recruitment, hiring, and operations.

Section 5 of the Magna Carta, which highlights the need for equal opportunity for employment for PWDs, stipulates that:

“No disabled persons shall be denied access to opportunities for suitable employment. A qualified disabled employee shall be subject to the same terms and conditions of employment and the same compensation, privileges, benefits, fringe benefits, incentives or allowances as a qualified able-bodied person. Five percent (5%) of all casual, emergency and contractual positions in the Department of Social Welfare and Development; Health; Education, Culture and Sports; and other government agencies, offices or corporations engaged in social development shall be reserved for disabled persons.” 

In addition, PWDs are given priority for skills training, scholarships, and livelihood assistance, and are eligible for certain tax exemptions.

The Magna Carta also encourages companies to hire them by offering tax incentives to employers who do.

NGO Support:

Aside from the government, many nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) also help PWDs find work from home jobs and promote an inclusive remote work culture.

Some provide workshops and skill-building activities to prepare them for online work. Others also provide grants or scholarships for PWDs, so they have the right skills to enter the workforce.

Additionally, NGOs often partner with companies and other organizations to create inclusive job opportunities and offer platforms where PWD workers can find suitable work.

Challenges and Opportunities for PWDs

PWDs will find many opportunities in remote work that were previously inaccessible to them in a traditional office. These include:

• Customized Workspaces: Remote work enables PWDs to create their own workspaces to accommodate any special needs.
• Schedule Flexibility: Remote work also offers flexibility in working hours, allowing PWDs to better manage their health check-ups and personal schedules.
• Expanded Job Opportunities: Working remotely opens up a wider range of job options, including international ones, for PWDs.
• Reduced Physical Barriers: An online work from home setup removes the need for commuting and navigating physical spaces, making jobs more accessible for PWDs with mobility issues.

However, remote work isn’t all rainbows and sunshine for PWD workers.

Some common challenges PWDs face in remote work include:

• Accessibility Issues: Some remote work platforms and tools may not be fully accessible for some PWDs.
• Technology Barriers: PWDs may face challenges in acquiring and/or using assistive technologies in the Philippines that support their basic needs.
• Isolation: Working remotely can lead to feelings of isolation, which can be worse for PWDs who may already be experiencing varying degrees of social isolation.
• Work-Life Balance: Balancing one’s physical and mental health needs alongside one’s work responsibilities can be difficult, especially since the lines between personal and work life can get blurry when working from home.

Essential Tools and Technologies

Now that we’ve established the common challenges PWDs currently face as remote workers, what disability support and productivity tools do they need to succeed?

Here are some examples: 

Assistive Technologies

Assistive technologies are products, systems, and equipment that help improve the quality of life of a PWD.

These can be divided into two types: high-tech and low-tech assistive tools.

High-tech assistive devices require electricity to function and are often more expensive than low-tech ones.

Some examples of these include screen reading software and voice amplification systems.

In contrast, low-tech assistive devices don’t require electricity, though they do require some form of physical exertion to function.

Examples include walking canes, wheelchairs, or even sticky notes.

Assistive devices can also be categorized based on the kind of support they provide. These include:

1. Visual Aids:

These tools are primarily designed to aid individuals with visual impairments -allowing PWD Workers to operate their computers and smartphones with ease.

Examples include:

• Screen Readers:
  • Screen readers are software that enables blind or visually impaired individuals to read text on their computer screens via a speech synthesizer or braille display.
  • Some examples of screen readers include JAWS (Job Access with Speech) for Windows Professional and Standard, COBRA, and Dolphin Guide.
• Braille Displays:
  • These are electronic tools that connect to a computer or screen and convert on-screen text into braille by raising small pins that form the dots.
• Braille Keyboards:
  • Braille keyboards allow visually impaired individuals to type in braille directly onto their devices, improving their productivity by enabling faster and more accurate input.
• Braille Printers:
  • These machines print braille on paper, useful for tasks that require hard copies of documents or reports.
• Magnifiers:
  • Magnifiers are essential visual aids for helping individuals with low vision see objects, texts, and images more clearly by enlarging them.
  • These range from simple handheld magnifiers to digital ones that offer features like changing contrast, adjustable zoom, or saving and recalling images.
  • There are also magnifying apps today that use your smartphone’s camera to enlarge texts and images.

2. Mobility Aids:

Mobility aids are essential for helping individuals with physical disabilities move around independently.

Examples include:

• Wheelchairs:

• • • This is essential for those who need assistance moving around their home workspace.

• Sip and Puff Systems:

• • • These devices allow users to control computers or other equipment using their breath.
    • By sipping or puffing air into a tube, users can execute commands or select options on a screen. 

• Hands-Free Mouse Tracking:

• • This technology enables users to control the cursor on their computer screens without using their hands.
  • Hands-free mouse tracking uses devices that track head or eye movements, and even facial expressions to move the cursor and perform clicks.

3. Hearing Aids:

For those with hearing impairments, hearing aids are a must when attending virtual meetings and communicating with co-workers, amplifying sounds so they’re much easier to hear.

There are many types of hearing aids. These are:

• Behind-the-Ear (BTE):

• • • BTE hearing aids look like a small case that sits behind your ear with a tiny tube leading into it.
    • These types of hearing aids are popular because they’re good for various levels of hearing loss and are very durable to boot.

• In-the-Ear: (ITE):

• • • ITE hearing aids, on the other hand, fit on the outer part of an individual’s ear.
    • This hearing aid is perfect for people who have dexterity issues or struggle with handling small items.
    • Providers recommend this for people with moderate to severe hearing loss.

• In-the-Canal (ITC):

• • • ITC hearing aids are models that fit entirely inside your ear canal than ITE models.
    • This hearing aid is very discreet and hard to see and is good for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.
    • That said, because of their smaller size, they use smaller batteries and may be more difficult to handle.

• Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE):

• • • Similar to BTE hearing aids, this model also has a small case behind the ear, though it differs in that it has a thin wire going into the ear canal.
    • For many, this provides a more natural sound, though it requires manual dexterity to wear.
    • This hearing aid is recommended for people with mild to severe hearing loss.

• CROS/BiCROS:

• • Stands for “Contralateral Routing of Signals” / “Bilateral Contralateral Routing of Signals.”
  • Usually recommended for individuals with normal hearing or minimal hearing loss in one ear and little to no hearing in the other.
  • You wear the hearing aid on the better hearing side and an additional microphone on the poorer one, so you can hear from the latter side even though it delivers all sound to the former.

4. Communication Devices

These tools help people who struggle with speaking or hearing normally to communicate with others.

Here are some common types of this assistive device:

• Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs):

• • • These devices help people with speech impediments communicate.
    • Users can type what they want to say or choose from images and symbols on a screen, and the device says the words out for them.

• Text-to-Speech Devices (TTSs):

• • • TTSs are devices or software that can take written or typed words and convert them into speech.
    • These can be used on computers, phones, or on special devices.
    • Like SGDs, TTSs are perfect for people who can type but can’t speak.

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Apps:

• • These are apps you can use on your smartphone or tablet to help you communicate using pictures, symbols, or text, making communication quick and accessible during meetings.

5. Cognitive Aids

Cognitive aids are designed to assist people who struggle with memorizing and remaining focused or organized in performing daily tasks independently – such as neurodivergent people with ADHD, for instance.

Here are some common types of memory aids:

• Memory Aids:

• • • These remind users of important tasks, deadlines, or appointments.
    • Examples include digital organizers, reminder apps, and smart calendars.

• Note-Taking Tools:

• • • Note-taking tools allow users to jot down notes or record voice memos so they can return to them later.
    • Examples include voice recorders, Microsoft OneNote, and sticky notes.

• Timers and Alarms:

• • • These tools help users keep track of time, remain focused on their tasks, and avoid burnout by reminding them to take regular breaks.
    • An example of this is phone alarms.

• Habit-Tracking Apps:

• • These apps help users build good habits and remain consistent with them, useful for helping remote PWD workers improve their physical and mental health.
  • Examples include Habitica, HabitBull, and Streaks.

6. Environmental Control Systems

Environmental Control Systems (ECS) help individuals with physical or mobility impairments control various devices and appliances at home.

ECS typically uses voice commands, switches, or adaptive input methods (like eye movements or sip-and-puff systems to operate household appliances.

These systems are usually integrated with home automation tools allowing users to control the lights, thermostats, doors, etc.

Some examples include:

• Voice-Activated Assistants:

• • • These devices help users control their workspace (i.e. turning on/off the lights or setting reminders) without needing physical effort.
    • Examples of these include Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant.

• Smart Lighting (e.g., Philips Hue):

• • Smart lighting enables users to adjust the lighting or turn it on/off via voice command or an app, which is invaluable for remote PWD workers with mobility difficulties.
  • An example of this is the Philips Hue.

Productivity Tools

Just like with ordinary remote workers, productivity tools are another essential part of every PWD worker’s arsenal.

These apps help you organize your tasks based on urgency, communicate with your team, and remain on track with your tasks.

Some of these tools can also be customized with assistive devices, making them easier to use for PWDs in remote work.

Here are some examples:

• ClickUp: 
  • • ClickUp is an all-in-one productivity and project management app that allows users to manage tasks, track deadlines, and collaborate with their teams.
    • It also features customization tools and accessibility options, making it user-friendly for remote PWD workers.
• Google Calendar: 
• • • Google Calendar is a free scheduling and time-management tool that helps people plan their day, organize events, and set reminders. 
    • Its ease of use and availability on multiple devices like computers and smartphones make it popular for many remote workers.
    • Google Calendar has features like screen readers for the visually impaired and color-coded events, making it easier to understand one’s schedule.

• Zoom:

• • • A staple for both regular employees and PWDs in remote work, Zoom is a video-conferencing app that allows users to hold online meetings, webinars, and virtual gatherings from anywhere.
    • Zoom offers inclusivity tools like live captions, adjustable display settings, and keyboard shortcuts to assist various PWDs.

• Pomodoro Timers:

• • These are productivity tools that break work into short (typically 25-minute) intervals, called “Pomodoros.”
  • After each Pomodoro, you take a short break (usually around 5 minutes), and after completing 4 Pomodoros, you take a longer break (usually between 15-30 minutes).
  • Following this technique helps neurodivergent PWDs build a steady routine and remain focused at work – boosting productivity, and avoiding burnout.

Workstation Setup for PWDs

Aside from having the necessary tools for work, remote PWD workers must also establish a suitable workstation at home. 

An ideal workstation for PWD workers in remote work must tick 3 boxes: accessibility, comfort, and productivity.

Start by selecting the right furniture for your workstation. For example, choose an ergonomic chair with an adjustable height, proper back support, and other accommodations for the user’s specific needs.

Other ergonomic furniture to consider include height-adjustable desks for those who need to regularly switch between sitting and standing and a footrest for workers who sit for extended periods.

After selecting the appropriate furniture for your needs, it’s time to incorporate your assistive devices into your remote workstation.

For PWDs with visual impairments, this means installing screen readers and magnifiers, for example. 

This step also involves downloading your productivity tools and other software required by your employer. 

In addition, equip your workstation with a fast and reliable internet connection for unimpeded work.

Finally, keep your workstation clean at all times and set regular breaks to prevent fatigue, especially for PWD workers with chronic pain or mobility issues.

Finding Remote Work Opportunities

Due to the stigma around them, one of the most significant challenges for PWD workers is finding work opportunities.

Although the increasing number of work from home jobs has opened up more opportunities for PWD workers, many more continue to struggle to find employment.

Fortunately, here are some tips to boost yours or your loved ones’ chances of landing a job:

Building Connections and Networks for PWDs

When it comes to finding jobs, sometimes who you know matters more than what you know.

This can be a problem for PWD workers, who may struggle to connect with industry peers and expand their networks as it is.

Fortunately, by leveraging online forums and social media, you can build your network without leaving your home.

Start by engaging in forums or social media pages dedicated to remote work, PWD support, or your chosen industry. You can find such communities on sites like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Reddit.

You can also participate in webinars, online conferences, or training events to meet with industry peers and experts.

Aside from establishing connections with them, these events are also filled with educational resources for building and honing your skills.

Finally, you can research mentorship programs focused on remote work or in disability advocacy. You can reach out to potential mentors through formal programs or by networking with more experienced peers in your industry.

Freelancing vs. Full-Time Remote Work

When it comes to working remotely, PWD workers have the option of either working as freelancers or as full-time employees.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each:

Freelancing

Pros:

• Flexibility: Freelancers can set their schedules, allowing PWD workers to adjust their work hours based on their physical needs or health conditions.
• Diverse Work Opportunities: Freelancing provides the chance to work on various projects, allowing PWD workers to explore different fields and learn new skills.
• Control Over Workload: PWD workers can choose how much work they can take on as freelancers, making it easier to manage their stress or physical needs.

Cons:

• Inconsistent Income: The most significant downside of working freelance is that it can lead to periods of financial instability due to inconsistent work.
• Lack of Benefits: Freelance workers often don’t receive health insurance, paid time off, or other benefits essential for workers managing health conditions.
• Self-Management: Freelancers must handle their taxes, contracts, and client relations, which can be overwhelming without support.

Full-Time Remote Work

Pros:

• Job Security: Full-time roles offer stable income, which provides financial security that can be crucial for managing medical expenses.
• Benefits and Perks: Full-time remote workers typically receive health insurance, paid leave, and retirement benefits, which are especially helpful for PWD workers.
• Structured Work Environment: A set schedule and clear responsibilities provide a sense of structure that can help maintain productivity, especially for neurodivergent PWD workers. 
• Company Support: Full-time positions often come with access to employee assistance programs, career development opportunities, and a community, offering both professional and mental health support for PWD remote workers.

Cons:

• Less Flexibility: Working full-time means working set hours, which can be challenging for PWD workers who need flexibility due to their health conditions.
• The Pressure of Expectations: Full-time work involves meeting strict deadlines or handling heavier workloads, which can be overwhelming for someone managing physical or mental health challenges.
• Limited Control Over Workload: PWD workers working full-time may not be able to reduce their workloads that easily when they experience health flare-ups.
• Dependence on Company Policies: Full-time employees are subject to company policies and may have less autonomy in how they approach their work.

Building Skills and Continuous Learning

Having the right tools and support for remote work is one thing; having the right skills for it is another.

For PWD workers looking to get into remote work, here are the high-demand skills for remote work today and how they can learn them:

High-Demand Skills for Remote Work

Having the right skills is essential for getting any job, whether in a traditional or online work from home setup.

If you’re planning to apply for online jobs, here are some skills that are in demand for most industries:

• Digital Communication: 
  • Clear communication is essential for collaborating with your team and employer across different locations and time zones.
  • Thus, you must be proficient in using online communication apps like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or communicating via email.
• Project Management:
  • Working online requires strong project management skills so you can remain organized, meet deadlines, and coordinate tasks efficiently.
• Technical Skills:
  • In the current digital age, there is high demand for workers skilled in software development, IT support, and web design.
• Customer Support:
  • Many companies today offer 24/7 remote customer service to clients and thus need someone experienced in handling customer inquiries, complaints and needs via email, chat, or phone call.
• Content Creation:
  • Companies transitioning online need engaging content for their websites, blogs, and social media marketing campaigns.
  • Thus, being skilled in content writing, graphic design, video editing, and social media management will open up more remote work opportunities for you.
• Digital Marketing:
  • With the rise of online businesses, companies are looking for applicants skilled in Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Google Analytics to track the performance of their marketing campaigns, website traffic, and user behavior.

Educational Resources for PWDs

Looking to sharpen your current skill set or learn new ones to improve your chances of landing an online job?

If so, here are some online educational resources for PWDs that can help you develop the right skills for remote work:

• National Council for Disability Affairs (NCDA):
  • Offers free online courses for PWD workers and provides them with a government-certified and verified certificate for every course they complete.
  • Courses are flexible, so learners can complete them at their own pace.
  • Link: https://ncdacourses.online/. 
• Bookshare:
  • An accessible online library for people with print disabilities, offering books in audio, braille, and large print formats.
  • Link: https://www.bookshare.org/. 
• Coursera:
  • Offers free and paid online courses from universities worldwide and has accessibility features like transcripts, captions, and downloadable materials.
  • Here, PWD workers can learn new skills for digital marketing, project management, or coding at their own pace.
  • Link: https://www.coursera.org/.
• Udemy:
  • Udemy offers a wide range of courses, both free and paid, on topics like business, technology, design, etc.
  • Courses are self-paced, allowing PWD workers to learn at their own pace, which is especially useful if they’re already employed.
  • Udemy courses come with subtitles and its platform can be used with screen readers as well.
  • Link: https://www.udemy.com/.
• Skillshare:
  • Skillshare has various video-based courses on creative fields (e.g. design, photography, and freelancing) with accessible options like subtitles, perfect for PWD workers who want to work in online design jobs.
  • Link: https://www.skillshare.com/en/.

Networking and Mentorship

Aside from attending online courses, PWD workers can also use their networks to learn new skills and hone current ones.

Doing so helps them learn from others’ experiences within their industry and connect with industry professionals offering mentorship programs.

Mentorship offers personalized guidance from experienced professionals. Mentors help PWD workers set goals, navigate challenges, and provide valuable advice for skill development.

Furthermore, mentors offer encouragement, accountability, and can even introduce mentees to useful resources and contacts.

Managing Work-Life Balance and Mental Health

A common challenge for regular workers and PWDs alike in remote work is establishing the boundaries between work and personal life.

Failing to do so often leads to increased stress which could then lead to burnout.

Fortunately, here are some tips for improving your work-life balance and mental health:

Setting Boundaries

Establishing clear boundaries between you and your employer is a crucial first step toward improving your work-life balance.

This means communicating your availability and preferred communication methods (i.e. email, messaging apps) to your employer as soon as possible so they know when and how to contact you.

In addition, creating a dedicated workspace at home also helps create a physical and mental boundary between your personal and professional life.

Furthermore, set regular breaks during work hours so you can relax and grab a quick bite.

Doing so helps you reduce stress, improve your focus, and maintain your energy for the rest of the day.

Finally, many remote workers feel the need to overcommit to demonstrate their dedication and capabilities.

However, this often leads to unmanageable workloads, which can affect their health.

Instead, be honest about your capabilities and get comfortable saying no to tasks outside your agreed-upon duties or work hours.

Mental Health Resources

Just because you’re working from home doesn’t mean you can’t get access to mental health support.

There are several mental health resources available for PWD remote workers. These include:

• Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA):
  • The PMHA offers free online counseling services for mental health support, primarily for anxiety, stress, and well-being.
  • You can access them by visiting their website here.
• National Center for Mental Health (NCMH):
  • Provides 24/7 mental health crisis support and counseling for Filipinos, including PWD workers.
  • Click here to see the list of ways to contact them.
• Mental Health PH:
  • Mental Health PH is a community-driven initiative focusing on raising awareness, promoting mental health education, and providing peer support for Filipinos.
  • The platform generally operates via social media and offers various resources and opportunities to engage with others who may be facing similar challenges.
  • You can learn more about them here.
• Hopeline PH:
  • A 24/7 mental health hotline by the Philippine Red Cross providing emotional support for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, or internal crisis.
  • You can reach them via: 0917-558-4673 (Globe) or 0918-873-4673 (Smart).

Support Systems for PWDs

There are several support systems in place to empower PWDs in an online work from home setup.

Here are some of them:

• Family support:
  • A PWD worker’s family and close friends are their most relied-upon support system.
  • They provide emotional encouragement, daily assistance (especially for those with mobility problems), and help with setting up and managing their home workstation.
• PWD IDs and Benefits:
  • PWD IDs provide discounts and ensure priority for utilities, transportation, and medical services to PWDs.
• Online Job Platforms:
  • Outsourcing companies like Remote Staff help PWD workers find online jobs and provide job-matching services to them.
• Assistive Technologies:
  • Having access to tools like screen readers, hearing aids, and specialized keyboards significantly boosts a PWD worker’s ability to work from home.
• PWD Support Groups:
  • There are many online communities, like Facebook Groups or Forums, where PWDs can connect, share experiences, and support each other in navigating remote work challenges.
• Government Support:
  • The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) offer job training, employment assistance, and advocate inclusive policies to support remote work.

Success Stories

Now that we’ve established the kind of support PWDs need in remote work, let’s now take a look at a real-world example of individuals thriving in this set-up.

Inspirational Stories of PWDs in Remote Careers

Here are some real-world examples of PWD remote workers who have or are currently working from home:

Delfin Santos (pseudonym provided upon request)

Let’s start with Delfin Santos’ story.

Mr. Santos is a neurodivergent person diagnosed with an autism spectrum condition and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

He worked from home as a chemistry data encoder for an IT company from 2020 to 2023.

Around 2022, his quality control supervisors gave him an ad-hoc trainer assignment after about two years of putting in high-quality and consistent work on his work projects.

There, he trained newly hired data encoders on their client’s data encoding guidelines up until he left to pursue further studies.

What He Did Before Working Remotely

Before working from home, Mr. Santos also worked in a traditional office. Some challenges he encountered included missing social cues face to face (or struggling to figure them out) and task-switching.

In addition, he also needed to clarify instructions with as many details as possible, which made quick, efficient communication difficult.

All these stem from the fact that his attention is monotropic, which is a byproduct of his autism.

How He Got Into Remote Work

Mr. Santos first learned about remote work from his quality control supervisor, who told his team that some of their co-workers were already working remotely, even before the pandemic.

When COVID-19 struck the country, his company switched to an online setup, where he first experienced remote work.

He started working from home in March 2022, though it wasn’t always smooth sailing. 

Initially, there were logistical challenges. He had to file his time sheets manually to keep track of his work hours. Fortunately, he made a habit of noting his log-in and log-out times, so he had a daily time record for the 15th and last days of the month.

Overall, he recommends working from home to PWDs, though he notes that neurodivergent workers must find ways to remain productive despite inconsistent day-to-day energy levels.

In addition, he also recommends that PWD workers should have access to the right support and assistive devices to work effectively at home.

My Story

Yes, I’m also a remote PWD worker.

Like Mr. Santos, I’m also a neurodivergent person diagnosed with an autism spectrum condition and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

I’ve been working as a content writer for Remote Staff since 2021 and this has been my first full-time job since graduating from university in 2019.

At first, I only wrote for Remote Staff’s Philippine website, but by this year, I also began writing for their Australia and US websites as well.

What Did I Do Before Working Remotely?

Before I started working remotely, I tried applying for face-to-face teaching jobs after I passed the Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET) in late 2019.

Unfortunately, I didn’t find much success. The schools I applied to either had no vacancies or rejected my application outright. In one instance, I just got ghosted after an application.

When the pandemic began, it effectively prevented me from applying for any teaching jobs for the foreseeable future.

How I Got Into Remote Work

However, it was also during the pandemic that I first started working remotely.

It was through a friend who recommended me to a freelance content writing gig in early 2021.

After a few months of working there, I then received another offer from the same friend for a full-time, online writing job. That’s when I started working for Remote Staff.

Some challenges I encountered working from home are mostly work-life balance issues like working outside of work hours and struggling to wake up early at times.

I overcame these challenges by adjusting my body clock for my work shift and by setting stricter boundaries for myself so I don’t burn out.

Overall, I highly recommend remote work for PWDs, as it offers more opportunities, eliminates the need for commuting, and offers easier access to their assistive devices.

That said, newcomers should be prepared to adjust to a remote setup and to coordinate with their team to ensure a smooth transition.

Jeremy Feria

Last, but definitely not least, we have Mr. Jeremy Feria’s story.

Mr. Feria was diagnosed last year with stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), due to high amounts of creatinine in his blood.

He is currently working as a remote contractor in Remote Staff for about 4 years now and works primarily as a multimedia artist for an Australia-based client.

What Did He Do Before Working Remotely

Before he started working remotely, he initially worked in a US-based BPO in BGC from 2017-2020

There, he also worked as a multimedia artist handling his client’s website and social media accounts, and edited videos for them.

While he was working on-site, he struggled with the commute from his house to the office.

To add to this, the pandemic struck, and the company he worked for shut down.

How He Got Into Remote Work

It was during this time that he found out about Remote Staff while job hunting, and hasn’t looked back since.

With remote work, he can keep a job without neglecting his medical needs, especially with the support of Arlene, his Client Relations Executive (CRE).

Thanks to her help, he was able to negotiate a 4-day workweek, so he has time for his dialysis.

Furthermore, she also checks on him weekly, which helps boost his confidence and morale.

That said, he also encountered some problems in remote work, such as sudden power outages.

One way he overcame this is by coordinating with his CRE, noting down the lost hours, and then continuing work once power returned.

Overall, he highly recommends remote work for other PWDs, especially if they’re working with a trusted outsourcing company like Remote Staff.

Despite receiving generous offers to return to the office, he prefers remote work for its schedule flexibility.

Here, he felt supported despite his condition, and he even received extra compensation from RS directly, even when his AU client couldn’t afford it yet.

FAQs

Here are some of the most common questions people ask about PWDs in remote work:

How Can I Find Remote Work Opportunities as a PWD in the Philippines?

PWD workers often find remote work opportunities via word of mouth or by signing up on online job portals and specialized job platforms like LinkedIn or Remote Staff.

They can also find remote work by registering with government agencies like DOLE and NCDA.

Finally, there are Facebook and LinkedIn groups dedicated specifically to PWDs looking for online jobs. 

These groups often share job postings, remote work tips, and experiences of PWDs in remote work.

To increase your chances of finding (and landing) online jobs, keep your resumes updated and tailor them according to the position you are applying for.

How Can I Build a Supportive Network While Working Remotely as a PWD?

The best way to start is by remaining active in your company’s communication channels.

Doing so helps you build rapport with your team, which encourages collaboration and opens you up to timely support.

You can also join PWD-specific remote work groups on platforms like Facebook and Reddit, where you can share your experiences and find support from others in the same situation.

In addition, you can also attend PWD-friendly virtual events to help you remain updated with the latest industry news and connect with industry professionals.

Joining these groups also helps you seek out mentorship opportunities to help your career grow and expand your network.

What Skills Should I Focus on Developing for Remote Work?

These are the following skills that would always come in handy for remote work:

• Communication skills:
  • Being able to clearly convey your thoughts in written or verbal form is essential in a setting where you can’t physically see your team.
• Tech Proficiency:
  • Mastering your remote tools and software, alongside your assistive devices, allows you to work efficiently at home.
• Self-Discipline:
  • You must be able to stay motivated so you can accomplish your tasks with minimal supervision from your manager.
• Excellent Problem-Solving Skills:
  • Encountering unexpected issues and disruptions is a common part of work.
  • However, what separates great employees from good ones is their ability to address these challenges quickly and efficiently, mostly on their own.
• Time Management:
  • Being able to organize your tasks and break them down efficiently allows you to accomplish them on time.
• Adaptability:
  • Working from home means adjusting to a new work setup, schedules, and team dynamics.
  • To thrive here, you must be capable of adapting to these changes without letting them affect your work.

 

For many PWD workers, the increasing number of online jobs opens many doors previously closed to them.

Now, they can earn a decent living and share their own unique contributions via jobs they previously didn’t have access to due to their condition or location. 

However, if you want to take advantage of these new opportunities and thrive in this setup, you must have all the necessary tools, skills, and resources mentioned above.