I think if someone has a responsibility left in the Philippines, like Novie who has a daughter left with her family, she has the obligation to send money and everything that her child might need. It's not over the top if you want something better for your kid I think.

Now, most families with a mom/dad or son/daughter that are working overseas (so their families back home would live better) need to know that the OFWs are not cash cows and not living their lives to the fullest..they're working to earn. The same with someone married to foreigners. Their families should know that just because they are living overseas, they don't automatically become rich.

For someone married to a British guy, I'm lucky enough to have a family back home that don't think of me or my husband as rich people. They actually think I got more money when I was in Manila! My mom and dad always thank me and Keith if we can send something, but they don't mind either if we don't as they know we have bills to pay too.

Anyway, the point is, if from the start, it's been clear to everyone about the situation, especially money wise, I think that would make everything better. If you can send money (even if they're not asking) that's good. If you can't, family back home should understand. Also, they should know not to waste any money that you send. If family back home can't be appreciative of whatever you give them and all they do is ask for something, that would be a problem.