The Globalization of Transnational Labor Migration and the Filipino Family: A Narrative

Abstract

Patterns of transnational migration have undergone rapid and dramatic shifts as a result of changes in the global economy. The countries and territories of Asia have especially been affected by globalizing processes as seen in the increased institutional regulation of transnational migration. Together, these changes in the global economy, transnational migration and institutional penetration have affected the formation and functions of families in the Asian region. Given the recency of these changes, many questions remain unanswered. How do government and private institutions, for example, influence familial relations and the migratory process? How are migrants' identities affected by these processes? Employing a narrative analysis, this paper examines the intersection of institutional regulations and the Filipino family. Specifically, I present the case of Lisa, a Filipina who formerly worked as a performing artist in Okinawa, and now resides in the United States. Through Lisa's story, I explore how institutional regulations provide opportunities and constraints on her migratory experiences, and how her changing familial situation affects her sense of self-identity. As such, this paper provides insights into the human experience associated with changing processes of globalization.