Wages in the Philippines are very low, however, and those who wish to do better must attend the right schools and have good connections. Upward social mobility is virtually impossible for those low on the socioeconomic ladder. Hence, a great many Filipinos, both male and female, leave home and family to seek employment overseas. Some leave with very little knowledge of the place they are going to, or even the job they are going to do; mothers leave their young children to become domestic helpers aboard, and return home every three years. When asked why they do this, they always, without exception, answer, “For my family, so that they can have a better future.” “Family” does not just mean spouse and children; it includes the extended family of siblings, uncles, aunts, nephews, and nieces.