PRESS FEATURE
Full Phils launches children’s book ‘A Heart in Two Places’ to champion OFW scholars
This article was originally published in The Daily Chronicle.
A children’s story with a bigger purpose is making waves in Manila. Full Phils, a youth-led non-profit supporting Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Hong Kong who dream of finishing college, has officially launched its debut book, A Heart in Two Places, at Museo Pambata.
Penned by Full Phils founder Emilio Baja, the book tells the story of Arlyn, a domestic worker in Hong Kong who wakes up before sunrise to care for another family while her own three children wait for her back home. Written for children ages five and up, the tale delicately opens young hearts to the sacrifices of OFWs while delivering a timeless message of love, resilience, and hope.
But this book is more than just a story—it’s a lifeline. Every single peso from its sales will go directly to Full Phils’ scholarship program, which helps OFWs in Hong Kong return to school and earn the college degrees they once had to put on hold. In just two years, the organization has already supported nearly 30 scholars and is set to celebrate its first graduates in 2025.
“The book bridges two worlds: the lives OFWs build abroad and the ones they long for back home,” shared Baja. “Through Arlyn’s story, we hope families see that sacrifice can open doors, and that education is one of the most powerful tools to achieve dreams.”
Following its Manila launch, A Heart in Two Places will be featured at the Manila International Book Fair (September 10–14, SMX Convention Center) and at the Frankfurt Book Fair (October 15–19, Germany), the largest book fair in the world. Readers can purchase copies via Full Phils’ social media pages, Google Form, email, select bookstores, and online platforms nationwide.
By blending storytelling with advocacy, Full Phils proves that every book sold is more than a bedtime read—it’s a step closer to a diploma, a dream fulfilled, and a brighter future for Filipino workers and their families.