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Filipino woman works as helper in S'pore despite holding science degree: 'Pride doesn't put food on the table'
A video of a Filipino science graduate, who says she was once a pharmacy assistant but now works as a domestic helper in Singapore, has gone viral. PHOTOS: FEIONE09/TIKTOK
Ivan Lim
PublishedMar 5, 2026, 10:49am
UpdatedMar 5, 2026, 11:00am
A video of a Filipino science graduate, who says she was once a pharmacy assistant but now works as a domestic helper in Singapore because "pride doesn't put food on the table", has gone viral.
The 19-second clip, posted by TikTok user @feione09 on March 3, starts with her performing a task as a domestic worker in Singapore. This is followed by images of her in a graduation gown from Southern Christian College in the Philippines.
The video then transitions to an image of her wearing various uniforms associated with a pharmacy assistant while the on-screen caption reads, "Degree Holder, Bachelor of Science in Extension Education."
Based on the on-screen captions, it is implied that she works as a domestic helper in Singapore but was once a pharmacy assistant.
It concludes with the subtitle "Pride doesn't put food on the table."
https://www.stomp.sg/trending-now/a...gshui-master-says-its-just?ref=related-center
Netizens offer words of encouragement
The video has garnered over 660,000 views, 51,000 reactions, and 420 comments, with many netizens offering career advice and encouragement.
"Rooting for you," said a TikTok user — a comment echoed by many others.
"I am so proud of you, you are an inspiration," another said.
Many suggested she use her degree to land a better-paying job, with some pointing out that she should consider joining the healthcare sector.
"Actually, try applying for a nursing or healthcare job – definitely pays better than being a DW and offers much more freedom. That said, there is no shame in being a DW. And if you get a good employer, better still. Anyway, nurse or healthcare also not easy la. Maybe DW less stress (sic)," said one netizen.
However, manpower laws in Singapore do not allow a foreign domestic worker to switch to a different type of job without leaving the country and applying for a new type of work permit.
Some commenters highlighted the benefits of being a domestic worker.
"Maid comes with a lot of benefits. Free accommodation, free food and also free medical benefits," said a netizen.
Another user, who apparently employs a maid, said: "I sometimes think that my domestic helper saves more money than a clerical worker in Singapore. My DH makes S$1,200 per month and hardly spends any money as everything is taken care of — food, lodging, transport, health care, paid leave once in two years, including air tickets fully paid."
Situation not unique to domestic helpers: netizens
Other netizens pointed out that her situation is not unique to domestic helpers."This happens to a lot of people. A lot of the people I worked with in the food industry in (New York) were lawyers and doctors in their home countries, but it didn't make as much as working in a restaurant in NY," said one.
While another, closer to home, said: "It's not just the helpers but many people in construction as well, they all have qualifications and are very intelligent. It's just the circumstances growing up were different. Hope more Singaporeans can show respect."
Several of feione09's compatriots chimed in too.
"You're not alone. I'm also a degree holder, but I'm working as a helper," said one. "I'm also a degree holder, proud to be a DH nowadays, it's not about profession, it's more about how much you can earn," another said.
"It's so sad our system failed us so bad," a commenter from the Philippines lamented, while another said: "I have a degree in education, yet if I have the chance to work abroad even as a housemaid or caregiver, I will certainly do it."
There were kind words and messages of support from users in Singapore too.
"May you find your passion again!! Singapore is lucky to have you!!" said one.
