AFTER 25 years of running a household, Manila-based businesswoman Rica de Jesus has passionately put together the first-ever Kasambahay Manual called “Okay Ka Yaya Ko: Ang Gabay para sa Kasambahay at Kasangga sa Buhay”.
The Kasambahay Manual is a basic training module that one can use to train all existing and new kasambahays (domestic workers).
It took Rica 12 months of research, translating to Tagalog, building content, taking videos and putting everything together to make this dream project come true.
“I am turning 50 in 2020 and this is my advocacy through Jaric Foundation Inc.: To change myself and make things right, to help all kasambahays and to help build happier homes,” she says.
“This is not a one-time kit that you will purchase but the beginning of an effort that will continue to evolve. Your purchase will help the Assumption Missions schools through my batch AC ’87 and will fund future projects of the foundation to help kasambahays,” Rica continues.
Uplifting the kasambahays
Dubbed as the first and only ready-to-use kit designed to uplift the work and lives of kasambahays, it includes “triple treats”. First is training using a simple and basic manual with videos, slides, and booklets. Second, tools are also part of the kit with one-stop shop/forms, laminates, and templates. Lastly, tips include a rewards system, God-centered living, and how to go digital.
“Everyone is busy, but our household is important. We must make sure our household runs smoothly so other parts of our lives run smoothly. The Okay Ka Yaya Ko System involves training and we need to make time for this. The system is not hard because Okay Ka Yaya Ko prepared everything already. All you have to do is implement,” Rica explains.
The Okay Ka Yaya Ko (OKYK) system recommends dividing the training into parts, preferably to be conducted by the boss or any member of the family, or any Human Resource Manager or trainor. The trainings include Characteristics and General Guidelines; Cleaning Materials and Guidelines; Good Housekeeping and Maintenance; Food Safety and Sanitation; and Special Skills and Techniques.
Happy homes
“We must remember that most kasambahays have only finished grade school. So, the training manual is tailored to cater to children, as we are starting from zero/scratch. We must be very clear to our kasambahays. We have to repeat and repeat. It is also a good idea to show pegs and photos so that they can envision what you mean,” suggests Rica.
The manual comes in a soft copy so the employer can freely edit details, rules, loans, leaves, checklist, etc. Slides can be added or deleted to tailor-fit one’s needs as well.
Rica believes that a laminating machine is a good investment so one can put reminders around the house. “Putting reminders in key areas will help everyone (including the boss) remember all the important things,” she stresses.
On the part of the employers, Rica hopes that they will be open to change their mindset. “Become an instrument for positive change. Help kasambahays and their families live a dignified life,” she encourages.
The soon-to-be golden girl envisions that “Okay Ka Yaya Ko will let our kasambahays live harmoniously in happy homes, increase their chances for success, and become a reminder of God’s blessings”.
Sincerest thanks to Rica de Jesus for the photos.
E-mail the author at mom.about.town.dvo@gmail.com. To view more photos, please visit http://momabouttowndavao.blogspot.com/.