Hailing from the modest landscapes of Tulay Na Lupa, Labo, Philippines, 47-year-old Francisco Amalia Liza Magana, fondly known as Leo Francisco, has emerged as a stalwart figure among Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Malaysia.
With 21 years of unwavering commitment and a journey filled with compassionate endeavors, Leo Francisco has become synonymous with empowerment and unity among Filipinos in Malaysia.
“At first, I just wanted to help my families with the financial [aspect], but as time went on, I also wanted to help my kababayan to excel and be more productive,” shares Francisco with The Global Filipino Magazine.
Leo’s roots trace back to a simple farm in Bicol, where she assisted her parents, cultivating a foundation of hard work and perseverance.
These humble beginnings fueled her aspirations, leading to the creation of the Filipino Malaysian Cultural Sports & Welfare Society Basic Skills Workforce Training Program (FIMA) in 2014.
FIMA, which Francisco founded after serving in various leadership roles in organizations like MWOFRC, FFAM, and FWRC, has become a stepping stone for many OFWs, especially those aspiring to work in the United Kingdom.
“The objective is to unite Filipinos in Malaysia to be able to promote their well-being while overseas and to be able to showcase their character and values so they can set standards for employment,” Francisco articulates with a vision of inspiring and not bragging, a mantra she holds close to her heart.
Francisco’s unwavering dedication is evident in her dual roles. While providing her services in Malaysia for almost 21 years to the same employer, she passionately teaches caregiving at FIMA and online during the weekends.
FIMA, under Francisco’s guidance, offers a plethora of courses, ranging from basic nursing home care to automotive, and photography to baking and pastry.
The comprehensive Basic Nursing Home Care program, consisting of 775 units across 28 subjects, serves as a valuable asset for OFWs aspiring to be caregivers in the UK.
Leo’s influence extends beyond the confines of the classroom. She has been a pillar of support for many, including victims of abusive employment.
During an interview, she expressed her gratitude to various organizations and individuals, including DOLE, OWWA, Ambassador Charles Jose, Labatt Beth Estrada, and Ms. Susan Ople, for their continued assistance to fellow OFWs.
“I help not only my family but most of my kababayan, especially those who want to work in another country like the UK,” Francisco reveals.
Despite facing challenges and misunderstandings, Leo Francisco’s resilient spirit remains undeterred.
“I’m doing my best, but sometimes some kababayan have some misunderstanding, so it’s better to find another place or thing that is more useful and makes you happy,” she reflects.
Grateful for the support of the Global Indian International School Kuala Lumpur, which has been instrumental in providing facilities for FIMA, Francisco and her fellow OFWs maintain a harmonious relationship, grounded in mutual aid and respect.
Looking towards the future, Francisco envisions continuing her advocacy in teaching caregiving lessons through technology, even after her retirement.
Her advice to fellow OFWs resonates with the essence of humility and authenticity, “Don’t stop learning. I’ve learned that life is not about being rich, popular, highly educated, or being perfect. It’s all about being real, humble, and kind.”