Woman Struggles as Partner's Fishing Income Falls Short
Gail, a woman from Bohol, has written to advice columnist Papa Joe detailing her financial and personal struggles with her live-in partner. The couple has one child, and Gail's partner works as a fisherman, following his family's trade. However, his earnings from fishing are meager—often only P300 or even as little as P100 per trip—and insufficient to cover their daily needs.
According to Gail, her partner hides his earnings and gives her only a small portion, which she must use for all household expenses. Their child attends daycare, adding to the financial burden. Gail notes that her partner also has a vice: he goes out every night, claiming to visit his father, but returns smelling of alcohol. On the positive side, he sometimes brings home fish from his fishing trips, which provides some food for the family.
Living with Relatives and Pressure to Build a House
The family currently lives with Gail's aunt and uncle, using their electricity and water. The relatives have asked them to help pay these utility bills, but Gail says they cannot afford to because her partner's income is too low. The aunt has also suggested that they move out and build their own house to become independent. Moreover, the aunt advised Gail to find a job rather than rely on her partner, as they frequently argue about money.
Gail is torn: she wants to work but insists on bringing their child along, which complicates her options. She is confused about how they can afford to build a house when they struggle even to buy rice. When she confronts her partner, he merely claims that the fishing catch is small and the balance they receive is minimal, often adding more excuses. Sometimes he even tells her to go fishing herself while he watches the child.
Papa Joe's Advice: Seek Better Income and Consider Leaving
In his response, Papa Joe acknowledges that many fishermen live well, but when vices are involved, life becomes difficult. He advises Gail to look for a job that pays more than fishing income. If possible, she should leave the child with her partner and, once she saves enough, start a small business with him while he looks after the child. He also encourages her to persuade her partner to quit his vices.
If Gail has parents who can babysit, she should ask them. But if her partner does not change after that, Papa Joe points out that they are not married, so she could consider leaving him. He ends with a note inviting readers to send their contributions to papajoesuperb@gmail.com.
