Single Parent in FURTHER Debt: The Sequel

I wasn't going to write about this story, but it bothered me as I went past midnight trying to work on an article but failed to accomplish anything because I got into more trouble. This is a continuation of Single Parent In Debt. 

Php10,500+ or almost USD$200.

That's how deeper in debt I am now, an amount that I racked up within 24 hours because my agency had somehow left me out of the payroll for the last April 1-14 cut-off. My salary was supposed to be sent from Australia to my Philippine bank account on the 24th (Monday - Manila Time). But because I inquired too late out of consideration as I didn't want to sound impatient, I waited until 4 pm to ask my superior about it, which they kindly checked. A few minutes later, I got this reply:

"Hello Elaine, it seems that there was an error on their part regarding the payroll report."
"I apologize on their behalf for the inconvenience this has caused. Good news is ***** can double-check and rework on it tomorrow, I think she has logged off for the day already. However, tomorrow is a bank holiday in Australia, so your pay will come through on Wednesday, pretty much. I know this is disappointing, hence, I'm hoping for your understanding."

Do I have a choice? 

I'd use the screenshot of the message to me but it doesn't fit the photo area. Anyway, I had to try different loan apps again. And while I was able to successfully repay the first loan, which was actually for a prolonged period, I have to worry about the other one that was due yesterday. It will only be paid today since they will send my salary only now. I will have to pay for the late fees, and my once-good credit rating is now, sadly, dented. I installed and uninstalled online apps, trying to find ones where I'll get approval, but I eventually got so tired of apps declining my application, I just accepted my fate. If I hadn't stopped, I would be in double-deep trouble.  

What really hurts me now is that I don't know where to get USD$200. I could only get loans from four local apps that release short-term loans for 7 days. Due date: May 1st. Today is now the 3rd day, and I have run out of options. I could get a consolidation loan, but I can't anymore because I am deeply in debt. I was thinking, should I grow a thick skin and ask for donations? Will people even donate for me? Because who am I? Will I make it in time? I haven't been sleeping, and I'm too tired to cry.

I'm trying to concentrate on my work, but I cannot focus. If I don't pay on time, I'm afraid that it will also tarnish my reputation since some of the online lenders here in the Philippines have a below-the-belt way of collecting payments, like sending messages or calling the borrowers' contacts, embarrassing the borrowers, forcing them to repay the money they don't have at the moment. I've even heard stories of borrowers who called to ask for more time only to receive rude treatment from customer service. 

I don't want to blame anyone, but this was the second time the same company skipped me from getting paid on time. I know the rest was my fault, and I'm still trying to find a solution. But time is running out. I hope I can survive this. Thinking about all of this, I have much to tell my therapist as soon as I can afford them. 

...to be continued.

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