Yes Arthur..
Its often beyond our comprehension being from a European culture with benefit systems in place..
Here in the Philippines and other 3rd world countries like it, its normally a case of needs must..
Its that simple.
Still hard to grasp I understand that, but until we walk a mile in their broken slippers we will never really know for sure..
I have a strong feeling however that it is usually for the kids sake and their immediate and long term futures..
If you think about the millions of OFW`s working abroad often leaving their kids entrusted to family behind for years on end you may begin to realise that there really must be a valid reason for this kind of sacrifice.