After nearly a decade of being away from home, an OFW in Dubai surprised his mother in an emotional reunion that has touched the hearts of many on social media. Abdulhamid Bandon, a social media influencer known for his MPQ-Pinoy Feed Dubai channel, shared the heartfelt moment in a video that is now going viral on Facebook.
In the video, Abdul’s mother can be seen enjoying her meal at a local eatery in General Santos City, unaware of the surprise awaiting her. As Abdul approached her from behind, she initially did not recognize him, puzzled by the familiar figure. But soon, the realization hit her—it was her son, whom she had not seen in nine long years.
Abdul’s family is from Sultan Kudarat, but he arranged for his brother to bring their mother to General Santos City, ensuring that the reunion would be a complete surprise.
In an exclusive interview with The Global Filipino Magazine, Abdul shared his journey:
“9 years na ako hindi nakauwi. For some reason, like every OFW, may mga ups and downs. Nawalan ng work, nag-resign, inabutan ng pandemic, and among others,” he explained.
He revealed that his last visit to the Philippines was in 2015, and this year, he made it his mission to return home.
“Actually, months lang yung pinaka-preparation pero nasa isip ko na, sabi ko sa sarili ko kailangang makauwi ako this 2024 kasi namiss na ako ng nanay ko,” Abdul added. He expressed gratitude to the brands that supported him, sponsoring his all-expenses-paid trip, both international and domestic.
Abdul was particularly excited to reunite with his mother, sharing how their separation weighed on him.
“Sobrang excited ako kasi matagal na kami hindi nagkita. Matanda na si nanay, then since may blessing ako, sabi ko GO na for bakasyon. Kinausap ko yung kapatid ko na uuwi ako pero huwag mo sabihin kay nanay kasi surprise lang, yung tipong wala siyang kaalam-alam na uuwi ako,” Abdul said.
Describing his mixed emotions, he added, “Iba yung feeling—may halong kaba, takot, at excitement kasi matanda na si nanay ko, hahaha. Baka sabi ko, atakihin sa puso ito, pero Thank God. Ibang-iba yung feeling ko—sobrang sobrang happy lalo na that time mayakap ko siya na halos sa unang tingin hindi ako makilala.”
In a touching reflection, Abdul concluded, “Ang kahinaan ng anak ay magulang at ang kahinaan ng magulang ay anak.”
Watch the emotional video below: