A Single Mother of Four Opens Up About Life Without Electricity

For many families, losing electricity is more than an inconvenience.

It affects how children study, how meals are prepared, and how everyday life is lived.

During our interview, 45-year-old Earline Magdaong shared her experience as a single mother raising four children while searching for work after losing her job.

"I had our electricity disconnected because I couldn't afford to keep paying the bill."

Her story offers a glimpse into the challenges many families quietly face across the Philippines.

Starting a New Life in Angeles City

Although Earline was born in Sorsogon, Bicol, her family moved to Angeles City when she was seven years old.

She grew up in Pampanga, built her family there, and has spent most of her life in the city.

Today, she lives in Marisol, where she continues looking for employment while caring for her family.

A Mother Raising Four Children

Earline is the mother of four children from two previous relationships.

Her oldest child has already started a family of his own, while one teenage daughter continues attending school.

Her two youngest children spend part of their time with their father, allowing her to focus on supporting the child still living with her.

Despite the challenges of single parenthood, education remains one of her highest priorities.

From Community Health Worker to Unemployment

Before losing her job, Earline worked in several roles.

She was employed in a factory, worked in a school canteen, and later served as a Barangay Health Worker

assisting local midwives with health checkups, community visits, and maternal care.

Although the work was meaningful, the salary was modest and employment eventually ended.

Now she is searching for housekeeping or other work suited to her experience.

Living Without Electricity

One of the most difficult adjustments came after deciding to disconnect the electricity in her home.

Without a steady income, paying utility bills became impossible.

Today, evenings are spent using candles for light.

When her daughter needs to complete schoolwork, she studies at her uncle's house where electricity is available.

Although the situation is difficult, Earline said her daughter understands why these sacrifices are necessary.

Finding Strength Through Family

Even during unemployment, Earline has not faced everything alone.

Her aunt occasionally helps with food and basic needs, while her son also provides assistance whenever he can.

Government educational assistance received through social programs is used primarily for her daughter's school expenses rather than other household costs.

Her goal is simple: keep her daughter in school and create better opportunities for the next generation.

Looking Toward the Future

When asked whether she wanted another relationship, Earline answered that her focus is now entirely on her children.

After experiencing two failed relationships, she believes her energy is better spent rebuilding her family's future.

Her greatest hope is finding stable employment and eventually restoring basic comforts like electricity in her home.

FAQ

How many children does Earline have?

She is the mother of four children, with one daughter currently living with her and attending school.

Why doesn't she have electricity?

After losing her job, she could no longer afford the monthly electric bill and chose to have the service disconnected.

What work has she done before?

She has worked in factories, school food services, and as a Barangay Health Worker assisting community midwives.