A 37-year-old single man, who calls himself Noli, has been in a relationship for over a year with an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) he has never met in person. All their communication happens through chat and occasional Facebook posts, as she refuses video calls, claiming shyness. Noli is deeply attached, losing sleep if they miss a day of talking, and she gets upset if they don't chat for even an hour. However, she has not disclosed her exact location in Mindanao, saying he just needs to wait until she returns next year.
Red flags in the relationship
Noli wrote to advice columnist Noy Kulas, expressing doubts about the relationship's authenticity. He noted that her Facebook friends have locked profiles and do not respond to his messages. Despite his growing feelings, he wonders if he should continue.
Noy Kulas responded, pointing out several red flags. "It's been over a year, and you haven't had a video call. If she has a phone camera and can chat, it's hard to understand why she won't agree to even a short video call," he said. He also highlighted that she refuses to give her specific location in Mindanao, which is unusual for a serious relationship. While locked profiles are common, combined with other signs, they raise suspicion.
Advice from Noy Kulas
Noy Kulas advised Noli to prepare for the worst, suggesting that the relationship may not be genuine. He recommended that Noli consider ending the relationship if she continues to avoid transparency. "Be prepared for the worst," Noy Kulas wrote.
