The Global Filipino Magazine | Issue 8 | December 2020

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ISSUE 8

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Rhona Morada

“Stay Faithful And Optimistic’ Filipina Loses Job Due To Pandemic, Takes The Plunge And Sets Up Business” BATCH 7 VC BATCH 22 AUH

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DECEMBER 2020

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS

EDITORIAL BOARD GABRIEL JOHN RIMANDO Publisher

RYAN NAMIA Editor-in-Chief

ALLAN CARAGAO

Senior Graphic Designer

ORLI GAYETA

Sales & Marketing Manager

TREBB GOMEZ

Technical Correspondent

THAN DUMAS

Multimedia Manager

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Giebeth Ellaine Laxamana, Property specialist in Dubai helps Filipinos fulfill dream of having own home Ramil Solis Son of carpenter, laundrywoman tops Filipino Institute MBA class Alagad OFWs in UAE find solace in music Roman Duenas Velasco All sleepless nights paid off’: FI scholar juggled work, school now certified caregiver Alice Bizimana ʻFilipino Institute supports everyone regardless of race’: Rwandan graduates with flying colors Engr. Restituto S. Sibug, MBA Son of farmers now a very prominent engineer in Saudi Arabia Reynaldo Z. Lachica Pinoy site commissioning chemist provides Filipino youths proper education Sherizze Sean Acot Beauty queen slash down syndrome advocate shines in Dubai Emilie Joy Callejo ʻThere is hope in every battle we face’: Former personal assistant now an Insurance coordinator Jeremias Catmco Lopez Kamote vendor now a successful senior safety engineer In Middle East Dr. Angelo Nino Santos Dubai-based clinical advisor finds love in photography and vlogging

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Maria Rubiano HR officer in UAE also excels in the field of beauty Rhona Morada ʻStay faithful and optimistic’ Filipina loses job due to pandemic, takes the plunge and sets up business Mary Grace Eyaya Operating room nurse on mission to educate aspiring professional in health sector Lorna Dalisay Salud Struggled and faced consequences in life, Filipina finds success working internationally Jophel Ybiosa Master photographer giving Philippines pride and honor through snaps Jordan Magno Pinoy senior concept designer shines out in Dubai Renjie A. Abellanida Property specialist in Dubai helps Filipinos fulfill dream of having own home Arlie Villarmia Son of carpenter, laundrywoman tops Filipino Institute MBA class Jojo Ruiz Utram OFWs in UAE find solace in music

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THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Giebeth Ellaine Laxamana Image credit: supplied

Property specialist in Dubai helps Filipinos fulfill dream of having own home The top reason why Filipinos opt to work abroad is due to the fact that they want to provide their families with a comfortable life. As a provider of a comfortable life, the majority of migrant workers are dreaming to build their own ‘home’. This is why Giebeth Ellaine Laxamana, an SMDC (SM Development Corporation) international property specialist based in UAE, exists--to give overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) a chance to have their own dream house and subsequently provide a better life.

when it comes to salary and career advancement. There were times that I only had to AED100 in my pocket as I need to pay liabilities here and need to send money back home. During those times, I always pray and ask Him to protect me. Also, my friends are a big help--they are my family. Also whenever I feel down, I go back with my deepest whys,” she said.

Before joining the SMDC, she used to work in various industries, including logistics, manufacturing, and trading.

“Dubai taught me to dream bigger and not to settle for less as I deserve the best,” she further added.

This year, during the peak of the pandemic, she took the challenge to be part of the real estate developer. “What I love about my currency job is I have the opportunity to change the mindset of my fellow OFWs on how they spend their hard-earned money and allot into a property investment that will generate passive income and prepare for their future when the time they decide to go back home,” she said.

Invest

On the sidelines, she is also a trainer-volunteer at the Filipino Institute for about five years now, sharing her knowledge about document control and basic logistics.

Laxamana considers Jason Macam, the associate sales director of the SMDC, as an inspiration as the latter motivated her to do what she is currently doing. “He is one of the people I am looking up to. At a young age, he is successful in his craft and has a genuine intention to help people,” she said.

Laxamana said life for expatriates in the UAE is temporary because at the end of the day, everyone will go back to their home country.

“We must spend our time and energy wisely and with a purpose.

Remember, failures and rejections are part of success. Focus on positivity and the benefits that we can get and learn from our mistakes and shortcomings,” she said.

She also advocates for investing in real estate for the following benefits: it can provide cash flow for retirement, indulge in entrepreneurial spirit, and generates wealth.

Living in Dubai

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Like many OFWs, Laxamana has also those down moments, however, whenever she feels like being demotivated, she drives along the Sheikh Zayed Road at night and the lights remind her purpose abroad.

She admitted that living away from her loved ones was difficult as it coupled with sacrifices and homesickness. “I had an adjustment when it comes to accommodation--the cost is expensive for a small space, eight-person in one room. Fighting for what you deserve

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THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

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Ramil Solis Son of carpenter, laundrywoman tops Filipino Institute MBA class institution.

Having a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree offers a wealth of advantages. And for Ramil Solis, a Dubai-based overseas Filipino worker (OFW), despite working in the accounting and finance industry for more than two decades now, he believes that there is still a need for him to secure a degree as the competitive business world continues to evolve.

Solis has recently graduated from the Filipino Institute Dubai campus and was awarded ‘best presenter’ during their business proposal defense. His group, on the other hand, has ranked first in the defense.

During the in-person graduation ceremonies of the Filipino Institute on December 4, in his speech, he revealed that his father is a carpenter and his mother is a laundrywoman for almost 20 years and an elementary graduate. “But her determination to let all her children finish school is what she dreams of,” Solis said adding that his mother has already earned her crown of glory as all of their family members are now financially stable.

“We had created a circle of friends with my fellow MBA graduates and to our friendly dean. Kudos to our mentors. We had faced struggles before Covid-19 and after Covid-19. We almost lost our hope, yet with the effort of the management team, we are here celebrating our success,” Solis further added.

He dedicated the ‘momentous event’ to his wife and children for their unparalleled support and love to achieve his dreams.

“As everyone’s goal, having a dream house, a dream car, a happy family, and professional achievement, fellow graduates, this is what I have now. But what I can share with you at this moment of time, always believe in almighty God, surrender yourself to him and he will grant you more blessings. Bles us all fellow graduates,” Solis concluded.

He also revealed that he was a scholar from high school until college. “Poverty is not a hindrance to success,” he said.

Currently, Solis is a chief financial officer in Dubai, and every word he shares with his boss is crucial in business decision making.

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“You may ask why I still did my MBA. In every level of life, there is always competition. From employee level until management level it always excess. This is the reason why I decided to come back to school to learn more,” he added.

He chose the Filipino Institute among other training facilities in the UAE because he felt comfortable and felt he will learn from the

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ALAGAD

OFWs in UAE find solace in music THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

A L A G A D Formed in 2004 with the goal to produce original music, the sextet, who are all songwriters, had a goal to perform for crowds.

The members of Alagad are: Tristan Alintanahin – Lead Guitar/Backup Vocals Ajay Dela Rosa – Pianist/Violinist/Backup Vocals Jason Feliciano – Bass/Backup Vocals France Barcelo – Drums/Backup Vocals Maricar Alcantara – Lead Vocals/Harmonica Ace Samonte – Lead Vocals/Rhythm Guitarist The band chose the name Alagad for the following reasons: they want to contribute to society and they were all members of Tinig at Himig ng Kabataan Choir.

“In the early days, we already have compositions individually so we thought that we already have the advantage to create a band and so we started to write more songs as a group to complete an album,” the band collectively said.

Throughout the years, like many bands, they faced the inevitable–some of them left, others stayed–and went through a hiatus. Despite the ‘people come and go’ situation within 16 years, the band stayed in the music industry so those members who left the band have still a home to return to.

“We realized so much nung dumating ang mga sunod-sunod na trahedya sa mundo and people were dying, we asked ourselves, ‘Bakit natin pinapanood na lang na agawin ng panahon ang mga pangarap natin?’ So after ilang taon ng drama, iyakan, galit at tampuhan, we decided na this time, lalaban na kami hanggang huling araw ng buhay namin,” they added.

“For us, Alagad is a sanctuary where our souls find solace,” they further added.

Although it was their dream to produce original songs, they are also regular performers, performing cover songs to various bars, hotels, and restaurants.

However, though they’re living the dream, the ultimate goal is to be full-fledged recording artists.

The UAE-based band has recently released its pilot album and now on its fourth out of 12 singles. The debut album is titled ‘Point of No Return’ because with feelings and music now fully out in the open, there is no turning back.

They shared the writing and recording process includes conceptualizing a song, lyrics and melody arrangement, and commentary. They will then listen to it, give their feedback, and take action. The band revealed that it takes days or months before they launch it.

When asked about their common denominator in terms of ‘inspiration’, they believe in Mathew 23:12 ‘For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.’

“The world needs more positive and moving stories.

The world is already full of hate at kulang tayo sa mga encourager, kulang tayo sa mga kantang maaring magbuklod sa nagkakagulong bansa, sa

mga kantang kayang magpahilom ng mga malalalim na sugat, parang puro masasakit at puro galit na ang umiiral hindi lang sa mundo pati na din sa sining, gusto sana naming palagan yun habang nananatiling mababang loob,” they said.

Before embarking on an overseas journey, Alagad has already been receiving multiple accolades in various music competitions. And while here in the UAE, they are proving that Filipinos deserve international recognition.

International Recognitions: 2012 – Al Ain Singing Contest | Champion 2013 – Talentadong Pinoy Middle East | Semi-Finalist 2014 – Star Ka Na UAE | Finalist 2014 – FCC UAE Songwriting and Best Interpretation | Grand Champion 2015 – FCC UAE Battle of Song Compositions | 2nd Placer 2015 – Al Falah Singing Competition | Grand Champion 2016 – DHL Got Talent | Grand Champion Currently, the band is working on their fifth single and remaking their second single.

When the band was asked about their advice to Filipinos who are currently working abroad and want to chase their dreams, they said that one should be physically, mentally, and emotionally tough.

“Dapat handa kang mahirapan, mapuyat, magsakripisyo. Dapat maunawain ka at maagap sa pagkakataon at dapat ang sentro ng banda higit sa lahat ay ang Panginoon,” the band said.

“Inaalay namin ang Point of No Return sa mga nawalan ng pagasa, tara sama ka sa kuwento ng album namin! Salamat sa lahat ng sumabay mula day one, salamat sa lahat ng hindi nang-iwan sa ere,” they added.

Image credit: supplied

Establishing Alagad is more than just creating music.

The members believe that the world lacks positive and moving stories, songs that shape the minds of youngsters and unite divided people.

THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

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Roman Velasco Duenas All sleepless nights paid off’: FI scholar juggled work, school now certified caregiver Changing thousands of Filipino migrants’ lives for five years now, the Filipino Institute has recently held its first in-person graduation ceremonies since March. More than 100 students have joined the ceremonies from different batches and classes.

One of the students who finished the Caregiver ladderized course is Roman Duenas. Hailing from the province of Batangas, Duenas, 32, has been living in the UAE for seven years now and had spent most of his time in the F&B sector.

degree but fulfill his dream to finish studying in Dubai through the Filipino Institute.

“The Filipino Institute has been an avenue for people whose dreams have been put on pause and wanted to pursue it abroad,” he further added.

Currently, he is working as an administrative staff at a multi-national company based in the UAE with remote offices in other Middle Eastern and African countries.

Duenas, despite having a full-time and demanding daywork, was able to finish studying Caregiver classes from 1.1 until 2.2 from the Filipino Institute and graduated with flying colors. “The path wasn’t easy but through the help of my family members and friends, I did it!

All sleepless nights paid off,” he said. The overseas Filipino worker (OFW) received the ‘Most Outstanding Student’ award and ranked fifth in the class.

“I am very grateful to the Filipino Institute–to Boss G and Mam Camille–I can’t achieve this milestone if it weren’t for them.

Whenever I feel down especially during this pandemic period, I always think of my course to be my weapon to secure a greener pasture in Dubai or in any place,” he added.

He also revealed that in the Philippines, he didn’t finish his college

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A scholar of the training institute from the first module, Duenas, during his free time, runs errands for the employees and other trainers.

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THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

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Alice Bizimana

For five years, the Filipino Institute has not only been supporting the Filipino community in the Middle East but also extending its services to non-Filipinos.

‘Filipino Institute supports everyone regardless of race’: Rwandan graduates with flying colors “I am very honored to be part of the Filipino Institute graduates. I am so grateful and thankful. My family was also very happy and proud of me,” she added.

Rwandan Alice Bizimana, a 37-year-old customer service executive for an events company in Dubai, has recently graduated from the training centre with flying colors.

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During the physical graduation last December 4, Bizimana was honored with the second rank for the classes Massage Therapy Basic and Advance under the trainership of Mr. Marlo C. Aljentera.

“My experience with the Filipino Institute is very wonderful, and the best, you can’t imagine how happy I am right now. Supportive and friendly lecturers and staff. At first, I thought it will not be easy for me when I heard that it’s a Filipino school, but everything went smooth,” she said when asked after graduation.

She may be finished studying both basic and advanced massage, Bizimana is is not planning to stop and develop her skills further.

Currently, she is taking a Business Management course and is planning to take up more courses.

“The Filipino Institute is the only institute which made sure you get the best knowledge and best experience with an affordable price [and don’t need to pay the full amount at once] but mostly, the time is flexible to everyone,” she added.

The Rwandan further added that the educational institution thinks first about its students before profit.

“Filipino Institute supports everyone regardless of who he or she is,” she said.

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THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

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Engr.

Restituto S. Sibug, MBA Son of farmers now a very prominent engineer in Saudi Arabia The first and only Filipino entrusted to handle the highest position in a Saudi Arabia-based company in its entire 34 years of operation in the Middle East, Engr. Restituto S. Sibug managed to make a name for himself, his family, and the Filipino community.

An absolute achiever in his field of profession, Sibug is a professional mechanical engineer, a registered ASEAN engineer, and a fellow of the Philippine Society of Engineers.

In 2011, he was awarded The Most Outstanding Mechanical Engineer (TOME) of the Year in the Field of Service to Community and the country during the 59th Annual National Convention.

While working full-time, he finished his Master in Business Administration (MBA) at the Philippine Christian University through its campus in the Middle East.

Blessed with three children and married for over two decades now, his family was awarded Model OFW Family by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in 2019.

He worked in Manila and realized that he cannot achieve his dreams for his family with the salary he was getting. With that, he decided to apply for an overseas job. Half-heartedly, he accepted the contract as a cost engineer in Damman and left for Saudi Arabia in 2000. After finishing his employment contract, he transferred to Saudi Aramco as a project engineer.

From 2005 up to the present time, he works with the Saudi TKT Company Limited, a Saudi-German joint venture. He started as a senior mechanical engineer and because of perseverance and hard work, the company recognized him and appointed him as business development director in Riyadh.

For the last 20 years, he has been working overseas.

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Success as an entrepreneur In 2016, he founded and now serves as the president of Boracandaba Resort. “Nothing in life is handed over in a silver platter, so is our business success,� he said.

In 2001, he started investing in farm lots. They acquired a 6-hectare farm on Pampanga, then procured another 900-square metre in Sta. Ana. He and his wife continuously invest in farm lots and now have a total of 30 hectares of rice fields.

Opportunities came to them and they started acquiring properties.

In 2013, they started the construction of their 20-unit residential apartment and another building with 20 units in 2014.

With all the businesses owned and managed by his family, they were able to generate employment in their community. He learned how life could be very difficult thus made sure to save and invest any time possible.

Outside of his work and businesses, Sibug also served various Filipino organizations and spearheaded outreach programs to help his fellow countrymen abroad and in the Philippines.

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The fourth child of a farming couple, he graduated from the Technological Institute of the Philippines with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

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THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

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Reynaldo Z. Lachica Dreams come true when one has the courage to pursue them. This is what Reynaldo Z. Lachica, a commissioning site chemist, believed in. With the proper formula in life, he has achieved the highest professional qualification as Chartered Chemist (CChem) and Chartered Scientist (CSci) in the United Kingdom. He is also categorized expert level as power plant chemist in his profession.

An outstanding overseas Filipino worker (OFW), he also supports the Filipino youths’ education through his school and community-based programs in Manila.

As a site commissioning chemist, he is in charge of providing chemical engineering services and power plant chemistry support for the over-all commissioning and start-up operations.

Currently, he works for the commissioning and start-up of a power plant project in Mexico with $425 million costings.

Previously, Lachica had worked for 21 months as a site chemist (expert level category) for the commissioning and start-up of a turbine heat and power plant project in Israel.

With nearly 20 years of combined work experience overseas, he recalled the reason why he left the Philippines and worked abroad. “I left the Philippines to seek a better future for me and my wife and raise my own family, to financially support our parents, and to gain more technical knowledge and expertise in the field of science, especially in power plant chemistry and industrial water treatments,” he said.

While in the United Kingdom, Lachica played the following roles: senior inorganics chemist, chemist and lab technician, station chemist, EfW plant chemist, power plant chemist, assistant chemist, power plant chemist, and commissioning engineer and chemist.

Career-wise, he became a regular member of the Americal Chemical Society, Member Chemist (MRSC) of the UK Royal Society of Chemistry, Corporate Member of the UK’s Water Institute.

A chemist with a heart, Lachica, despite being away from the Philippines, still supports the community and schools by joining and launching drives and community services. While the world still continues to fight the pandemic, he also provided essentials to various barangays in the Philippines.

Having achieved professional success albeit outside his own country, he sees to it that he gives back by inspiring and motivating young Filipinos back home. His personal advocacy includes the sponsorship of the annual Ulirang Kabataan Awards for deserving students both in his alma mater--Manuel A. Roxas High School and Bagong Barangay Elementary School in Paco and Pandacan, Manila, respectively. Lachica also grants awards to outstanding elementary and high school students in the whole sub-district of Pandacan.

Pinoy site commissioning chemist provides Filipino youths proper education “Working overseas, my wife and I were able to financially support our parents back home and managed to live our life fully independent,” he said.

With his current mode of employment as an agency worker and in-contracting, his job is not readily available and might scarce for some years. He said some projects last between six to 20 months while the next thing is 18 months of unemployment.

“In this situation, my family and I need to use up all our savings until the next job will be forthcoming. Our resilience is also supported by the high tax payments we made in the UK which also provided some government financial benefits during the unemployment period. As I believe, whatever success or failure I may encounter in life, my family will always be my strengths,” he added.

For being a role model and an exemplary overseas Filipino, he received the following accolades: 2014 Bagong Bayani Awards for Outstanding Employee given by the Bagong Bayani Foundation, Inc. 2012 BPinoy Awards for Science and Technology given by the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and BPI Europe Plc 2012 TYGP ‘Ultimate Global Filipino Awards’ sponsored by the Commission on Filipino Overseas, Duty-Free Philippines, and Kraft Philippines Inc. 2010 UK Centrica Energy Awards Nomination for Pioneering Spirit 2010 Search for the Toughest Jobs Philippines sponsored by the Department of Labor and Employment and Alaxan FR/United Laboratories 2010 Most Outstanding Alumni (Science/Chemistry) awarded by the M.A Roxas High School (Manila) General Alumni Foundation, Inc. “Being an OFW and achieving the highest professional qualification of Chartered Chemist (CChem) and Scientist (CSci) in the UK truly exemplified that we are world-class Filipino. CChem and CSci professional qualifications represented the chartered mark for all scientists, recognizing high levels of professionalism and competence in chemistry and science,” he said.

Advice “Whatever career path you take, be focused on it, and use all available resources to improve yourself. Whatever we learned and experienced in the Philippines, either educational or work-related, are all considered “at par” with the competitive global standards. Given the chance and right opportunities, we Filipinos will excel in everything we do no matter where we are,” he concluded.

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THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Beauty queen slash down syndrome advocate shines in Dubai

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Sherizze Sean Acot

At a young age, Sherizze Sean Acot has already been exposed to bigger responsibilities already. Despite having no intention of working abroad, she found herself following her father’s footsteps who is out of the country most of the time.

support of public and private entities, they were able to establish a school learning resource room inside the Bacolod City Special Education Centre during the launching of the advocacy.

Realizing that she won’t be able to reach her maximum potential if she stays in her comfort zone and not take the risk, Acot grabbed the opportunity and trusted the process, and went on with the flow of life.

Having in mind that greener pastures await her away from home, she left her province and worked as an accounts specialist in a real estate company before embarking on an overseas life.

The 25-year-old overseas Filipino worker has landed a job at the Montage Oil DMCC, an oil, gas, and petrochemicals company under the logistics and documentation section in 2017.

2020, a year of breakthrough

Reaching milestone at an early age Acot has started ramp modeling at the age of 12 under a modeling agency then ventured into pageantry at 15. At 16, while studying in La Salle Bacolod, she started managing events after being affiliated with a production support group. Rising through the ranks, she was first in-charge in the food coordinating team to house management to stage crew to stage manager until she became the events manager of the organization.

She was entrusted to manage the school-related events until she finished college. This experience has paved the way for her to manage bigger events in the local region.

“I think this has been the real highlight of my career since I love what I’m doing despite the reality that I still have to work on my studies since I’m a regular university student, not to mention that I have been the Mayor of our block section from first to fourth-year college,” she said.

Apart from it, she also represents her university in journalism workshops and competitions since she was the features editor of their departmental publication. With all her contributions, she has been named as one of the five most outstanding students in the field of performing arts during the Corps d’ Elite: Par Excellence 2015 of La Salle Bacolod.

The current year may be a struggle for most, but Acot considers 2020 as a year of breakthroughs. In the middle of the pandemic, she was hailed as the first honor for her summer class in the Filipino Institute Dubai campus.

She was also named as the Illustrado’s Choice for Faces 2020 in March.

And most recently, she has been one of the participating artists in the Global Women Empowerment Summit 2020’s Shades of Passion: The Art Show.

Advice from an OFW to OFWs “Most of our kabayans here are older and have more experiences than me but if they can take advice from a young woman, I would advise having the right kind of mindset. What others think of you wouldn’t matter. What matters the most is what you think of yourself, what you feed in your mind because you become what you think about. Sure, there are times that we would feel really down and we have a hard time avoiding negativities but you have to believe that you can do it, everything’s gonna be alright, and that God wouldn’t abandon us. Remember “binigay sayo, kasi kaya mo”.

Just be thankful for what you have because the more gratitude that you have, the more abundance you will magnetize.”

Image credit: supplied

Not only she is popular as a talented beauty queen in her province, but she is also known as a down syndrome advocate. Her advocacy came into existence after her brother with down syndrome passed away when he was 6.

Acot has launched her advocacy, ‘Don’t Limit Me: A Down Syndrome Awareness and Education Campaign’ at 18 with the objective to create a learning resource room for kids with down syndrome.

“This was part of my individual thesis before but then, I’ve decided to move forward and take the initiative for its overall execution,” she said. With the

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VOLUME 1 | ISSUE 8

Ang Kuwento ng Buhay A poem written by

Joy Ann Mangulabnan inspired by the short film

‘Kanlungan’ Laban lang!

Pagsubok lang yan, kaibigan kita!

Masasayang ala-ala na 'di ko makakalimutan.

Mga kahapon' puno ng kulitan.

Matatag na samahan, aking panghahawakan.

'Yan ang isa puso mo aking kaibigan.

Sa hirap at ginhawa walang iwanan.

Unos lang yan, kaibigan kita!

Lahat ng 'yan ating malalampasan.

Manalig lang sa Diyos, sasamahan kita.

Malayo man sa ating pamilya ngayon.

Andito ako para ika' y samahan.

Lumipas man ang mga taon.

Kaibigan' 'di ka iiwan.

Pakatatag lang, yan ang ating kailangan.

Para sa pamilyang tayo ang inaasahan.

Lahat ng pangarap ating makakamtan.

Upang hindi na lumayo sa pamilya' t kinalakihang bayan.

Walang mahirap na pagsubok makakaya natin to.

Ikaw paba, ngayon kapa susuko?

Kung KAYA KO, KAYA MO! KAYA NATIN TO!

Ang Kuwento ng Buhay

THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Emilie Joy Callejo

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‘There is hope in every battle we face’: Former personal assistant now an insurance coordinator In 2008, Emilie Joy Callejo landed in UAE and as a breadwinner in the family, she was inclined to venture on overseas life. The year when the country saw a recession, she worked as a credit card sales representative for a bank.

For over a decade, Callejo explored the opportunities in the country to develop her personally and professionally. She worked as a personal assistant for a managing director, joined a shipping and trading company where she learned about accounting, invoicing, and shipment, among others.

Presently, she is part of the Trust Online Portal LLC as an insurance coordinator. “Basically, I am enjoying learning new things since the insurance company is new to me. I chose this field for me to learn and know how an insurance company works, this will help me grow my skills and be flexible,” she said.

Life in the Philippines The migrant worker in the UAE recalled growing up with her grandparents and being a scholar during her school years.

In 2004, the University of Baguio chose her as an exchange student to study the Japanese Language at the Nagasaki Wesleyan University in Japan. There, she represented the Philippines and her school in the festivities in the Asian country.

After graduating from college, Callejo worked at Sitel Baguio Philippines for more than a year as an inbound technical support representative. She received a couple of recognitions while working in the same company.

weapon,” she further added.

Callejo shared that she is a member of community groups that helped grow her faith. “They are always to support and some good friends who are always there, I am very thankful to all of them, I survive because I have these wonderful people in my life,” she added.

A frustrated nurse, Callejo is currently taking the Certified Nursing Assistant at the Filipino Institute as she plans to pursue her dreams in the future. She is also planning to migrate to the US along with her mom and be with her American fiance who she described as ‘a very hard-working and soft-hearted man.’

“There is always hope, our redeemer lives, don’t lose faith. Keep praying, ask for guidance, believe in the impossible. Your struggle has an end. And once you surpass it, you will be stronger than you were yesterday,” she concluded.

There is hope When asked about the struggles she faced while here and in the Philippines, she said that there are too many that need to be mentioned. “There were times when I feel no hope, but actually there is hope in every battle we face,” she added.

“God will never leave you nor forsake you. Prayers are the greatest

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Jeremias Catmco Lopez Kamote vendor now a successful senior safety engineer In Middle East Image credit: supplied

For the last 27 years, Jeremias Catmco Lopez has been living and working in the Middle East, and if there is one thing he learned while abroad it is to love one’s work and never stop learning.

Growing up in a suburban community in Cebu, his family led a simple life--no electricity and went on foot about four kilometres to school. Being the eldest among the nine siblings, the provincial boy, once in a while, join his mother in the market to sell sweet potatoes and vegetables, among others, to purchase their basic needs.

With their economical situation back then, his father, a farmer, and his mother, a housewife, couldn’t support his dream to be a successful engineer. With his insistently strong desire to be an engineer, his parents agreed that he’d take a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

They had to sell their carabao for him to be able to enroll. The struggle didn’t end there. He had to budget his P20 weekly allowance. Whenever he felt hungry, he just drunk water, and when he got short of money, he had to walk for about 4.5 kilometres from his home to school.

Lopez also recalled his parents selling carabaos every year so he can pay his school fees. When he was in third-year college, he started to support his studies as his parents could no longer afford it since his sister was also in college. “It was really tough as I have to shift all my classes in the evening.

There were lots of pressure and difficulties in managing my studies and work but instead of surrendering, I used them as a motivation and inspiration to keep my spirit alive and always praying for guidance, asking for strength and wisdom for all the challenges and trials that came along the way.

Coupled with strong determination, hard work, and prayers all, those hardships have paid off,” he said.

The stars have finally aligned--he finished his course in less than five years, passed the board exams, and became a licensed and registered mechanical engineer a year after graduation. “It was a fulfillment and I considered it as one of my greatest achievements in life especially to my parents who are so proud and happy proving that poverty is not a hindrance to succeed,” he added.

It was 1993 when an opportunity to work abroad came. Leaving his family was difficult, but he had to fly to Saudi Arabia as a safety engineer. It was his

dream to provide a better future for his family and support his parents and siblings for their education. After 12 months in the company, they’ve already moved to their dream house although it was not complete yet at that time.

Current work For over two decades, Lopez worked in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain. He also worked for two years in Malaysia as a safety engineer.

Currently, he is connected with Al-Khafji Joint Operations in Saudi Arabia as a senior safety engineer. His main job responsibilities include reviewing tender specifications for the construction, modifications, studies, and advice on safety measures or requirements involved in their design for the new facilities or equipment.

He is also providing technical support during construction and commissioning and start-up activities to ensure all works are carried out in a safe manner and in accordance with the approved procedures.

“What I really enjoy about working in Saudi Arabia mainly the working environment and the knowledge and experiences I gained working in an oil and gas company (onshore and offshore) and the substantial salary and employment package and benefits that include my family members,” Lopez said.

When the retirement time comes, he said he’ll go back to the Philippines and man the 30-hectare land he purchased and manage their real estate investments which are currently earning passive income sufficiently enough for their basic needs when they go home for good.

Love your job If he were to share a piece of advice to his fellow OFWs who are currently in distress is to love their job and never stop learning new things and be compassionate with others.

“Be smart in managing your finances especially when it comes to saving money. Always keep something for them and invest wisely for their future. Be firm and clear on your goals, always be reminded of your purpose of working away from your family, and above all never forget to pray for guidance and wisdom,” he added.

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Dr. Angelo Nino Santos Dubai-based clinical advisor finds love in photography and vlogging A clinical advisor in the UAE, Dr. Angelo Nino Santos, fondly called ‘Doc Gelo’, did not only find love in medicine. Aside from having an extremely challenging and cerebral work at the NOW Health International, an international medical insurance company, he also found love in blogging and snapping travel photos.

As a clinical advisor, his job includes medical review and pre-authorization from outpatients treatment and diagnostics to inpatient medical and surgical admissions. He also coordinates with different medical providers across Europe, Middle East and Africa region, and sometimes in Asia, Australia, and the Pacific, South and North America as well.

He arrived in Dubai in 2014 with a goal to earn a better and lucrative salary and enjoy numerous benefits that he believes he will never receive in the Philippines. “Secondly, to enjoy countless opportunities such as traveling to destinations that were only in my bucket list years ago, and to appreciate different cultures and expose my palates to various cuisines have been all parts of the rewards of working in a foreign land,” he added.

A licensed general physician in the Philippines, Santos is an experienced medical educator for 10 years in both the Philippines and in Malaysia, and a clinical advisor and insurance specialist in the UAE for six years now.

“I reckon being a part of the academic lives and successes of my former Filipino nursing students in the Philippines and in Malaysia as my greatest career achievement,” he said.

Travel blogging, photography Santos, even before working abroad, has already been traveling to various countries. To date, he has been to 54 countries on five continents and has been travel blogging at Beyond Toxicity at www.docgelo.com for 13 years now.

With zero knowledge about photography, and equipped only with a small mirrorless camera, his travel photos have been featured and published on print in various magazines, including the Suitcase Magazine in London, and Illustrado Magazine in Dubai. “I find an unexplainable euphoria when I take photos of rooftops, skyline, and horizon from a great vantage point, from church towers, and rooftop bars,” he said.

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Santos has self-published his books three times already to showcase his travel photos in different media. His first travel photobook #TravelMemories was published and copyrighted in the USA, the second book People, Places, and Memories was published in Singapore. His most recent hardbound travel coffee table book Departures that highlights travel photos from the first 50 countries he has been to was published and distributed by Central Books in the Philippines.

Dubai as a second home “Dubai has been my second home for six years now and staying with the same company for the same number of years means I love what I am doing, and I care about my job. Working in Dubai enables me to provide for myself here, and to support financially my parents and a brother back home,” he added.

With the pandemic that affected millions of people, Santos said it taught him to live for the day and never worry for the future.

“Honestly I don’t have concrete plans yet on when I will leave UAE, or where would I go after. I’ll cross the bridge when I get there.

Perhaps, I will transfer to another country where a permanent visa is possible to be granted for migrant workers,” he said.

Santos lives for the following pointers in life: 1. Work and save, but never forget to enjoy your weekend or days off, and annual leave. We owe ourselves a pat on the back and a treat.

2. Happiness is an inside job. Always try to be happy or find joy even amidst challenges and struggles.

3. Keep the faith stronger and hopes burning inside us.

4. Always be positive and think of ways and means to better our lives.

5. Never settle for mediocrity and 6. Always be proud of being a Filipino!

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Maria Rubiano HR officer in UAE also excels in the field of beauty after working abroad, said she intends to settle down, get married, and then eventually move back to the Philippines to lead a simple life.

Struggle, advice

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Just like most Filipinos abroad, Maria ‘Aizel’ Rubiano came to UAE with hopes to help her family and provide them a better life that they deserve.

Coming to UAE seven years ago on a one-month visit visa was difficult. The pressure and the competition were eating her up, fortunately, she was able to secure a job in less than a month.

Her first job was as a secretary for a consulting company, however, it didn’t last due to uncertainties. She quit the secretarial job and worked for four years at a construction company.

Years have passed, with enough knowledge and skills, she took a career jump and worked as an HR officer for a facilities management company.

Rubiano described her first year abroad as a total struggle as she needed to pay tons of debts back home due to ‘unfortunate events’. With determination, coupled with courage, she was able to come out on top of their situation.

“My advice to my fellow kababayan is not to give up on their dreams. Some people are meant to work abroad, if this is your fate do your best to excel in whatever jobs you are into.”

“There is no easy way to go to the top, you have to work it out the best for you.

There will be people who will try to bring you down, break your morals, and values. Be true to who you are and your faith,” she said.

“Being an HR officer is quite a challenge because you have to deal with all the workers’ documentation, solving their problems, dealing with their everyday sentiments, annual leaves, and rights,” she said noting that, on the other hand, her job is fulfilling especially when you give your colleagues the proper support that they need.

Excelling in the field of beauty Before coming to the UAE, Rubiano has already been doing make-up for photo-shoots and weddings. She considers it as her ‘passion and hobby.’

During her third year in the UAE, she thought of being a freelance make-up artist.

In 2016, she created a group on Facebook called ‘Vanity Gallery Beauties (VGB) with the goal to support aspiring make-up artists. To date, it has over 20,000 members across the world.

“It’s also fulfilling when they like how they look and they appreciate your hard work,” Rubiano added.

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The HR officer and freelance make-up artist, when asked about her plans

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Rhona Morada ‘Stay faithful and optimistic’ Filipina loses job due to pandemic, takes the plunge and sets up business Despite all the problems that hit her, failure has never overtaken her determination to succeed in life. Rhona Morada was just an employee, now, she is a full-fledged entrepreneur as one of the owners and the CEO of COUPOONSHOP UAE, a business model based on subscription and discount offers for various business services.

Hailing from Lipa, Batangas, Morada is the youngest among eight siblings. With a vision to provide a good life for her parents, she took a leap of faith and try her chances as an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in 2006. Her first job role in the UAE was as a Project Manager for a Dutch company. “Such paved the way for my development and foothold in the oil industry,” she said.

A few years later, she chanced upon an open position and got accepted to work for one of the leading service providers in the oil and gas industry. There, she served as a Demand and Supply Planner for Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and the Asia Pacific regions and has been deployed for other international assignments to support the United Kingdom and the United States facilities.

Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed. The firm acknowledged her pivotal role in multiple inventory management, financial planning, and forecasting across the regions. As a result, she was rewarded with various accolades for what they cited as ‘remarkable and outstanding’ contributions to the company.

Morada, a mother of two kids, said that one of the reasons why she stayed in the UAE is because she wants to provide her kids a quality life and education. “I don’t want them to get used to the answer, ‘I am so sorry I don’t have money.’ I don’t want to see myself again knocking on someone’s door, pleading to lend me money because my child is in the hospital. My children deserve a parent who can stand firm for them,” she added.

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She also yearned to work abroad for her parents. “I don’t want them to work until they are old and frail. I don’t want to be stuck in that life where we have to borrow money for food. I don’t want to

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endure prolonged sickness because we can’t afford to go to the hospital. I don’t want to stay in the dark for days because we can’t pay our electric bills. I want a comfortable home that withstands storms and a life of comfort and freedom from worry about money,” she further added.

employee to a full-fledged CEO.

Despite raising eight children, her parents were able to send them to college and secure a bachelor’s degree. To support their education and make ends meet, her mother worked as a housemaid, school janitor, and dressmaker; while her father worked as a construction worker and carpenter.

“As the CEO, I honestly think I was born to do this. You know, something in all these feels right. Looking back to what I have been through--the entire journey, the lessons I learned along the way, the struggles, the victories, and defeat--all of it prepared me for this, the biggest mission of my life,” she said.

“I remember what my father used to say that we might be underprivileged in terms of money, but what we lacked, we can make up for hard work and perseverance. This is what I and all of my siblings did. We buried ourselves in books and finished our education, hoping that we would have the opportunity to elevate our ways of life one day,” Morada said.

The company’s vision is to go on a global scale.

“My family is worth all the sacrifices because they are my world; they are my reason for everything. Working abroad is the only way to make our dreams a reality, and I wouldn’t pass the opportunity up for anything once I had the chance. I thank God for the goal and the passion He put in my heart and the courage, way, and strength to make it happen,” she added.

Staying faithful and optimistic amid the pandemic Her perfect world has drastically changed when the pandemic hit.

She lost her job in July and at that moment, she began to doubt herself and asked if all the contributions she made had been for nothing.

She thought the Covid-19 crisis was the end of her journey in the UAE, however, she heard a voice that says ‘be faithful and optimistic,’ that every door that closes, there is another one that opens.

COUPOONSHOP UAE aims to offer high-quality deals and discounts for its subscribers at www.coupoonshop.com. “We aim for 100% customer satisfaction and loyalty,” the Filipina said.

God has a reason for everything Morada, when asked about her advice to her fellow Filipinos abroad, said to always remember that the only way to fail is when one stops.

“Bear in mind that for as long as we keep on going, we are one step towards fulfilling our purpose: to be the flag-bearer of the family.

There will be setbacks, a million and one struggles, but God always has a reason for everything, so have faith and have no trial break because the God who blessed me is the same God who will bless you. The journey is not easy, but it’s all worth it,” the entrepreneur said.

“Trusting is hard and knowing whom to trust is even harder. If you have a trust issue, loosen up a little and not overthink because there is always a risk in life. At the end of the day, if the decision of trusting is right or wrong, what we’ll get is experience, lessons learned, and fuller life. Life is fleeting and happens only once; make the most out of it,” she concluded.

“Such lingered in my mind, and for months, I fervently hoped for a silver lining that would end my feeling of uncertainty and self-doubt. Losing my job made me leave my comfort zone. I was in a fight or flight mode,” Morada said.

She motivated herself by saying that ‘this can’t be the end for me,’ which pushed her to embrace new opportunities. As strange, cumbersome, and uncomfortable they may be, she found herself slowly breathing above the water and learning to love the unique aspects of change that fate brought to her feet.

After months of being on edge, she was finally living in the reality that was once her vision. She switched quadrants--from an

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Mary Grace Eyaya

Grew up in austerity, Dubai-based operating room nurse Mary Grace Eyaya embarked on an overseas life eight years ago. A mother with two kids, the frontline hero worked for a vascular centre and on the sidelines, she imparts her knowledge to aspiring nurses as an instructor.

“I love my job because there’s a work-life balance. I have a great degree of control and freedom with my current work. For me, being a nurse is just about a job, not an easy one as it is a calling,” she said.

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Operating room nurse on mission to educate aspiring professional in health sector

for every outcome, be thankful. Palagi mong hanapin ang swerte mo. Hindi puwede yung puwede na. It’s not always about winning.

Victory will never be sweet if there is no bitterness of defeat,” she said when asked about her advice to her fellow Filipinos abroad.

She said that the most satisfying thing about her work is when she sees how happy her clients are, and how contented they are with the care she renders.

One of the reasons why Eyaya chose to work in Dubai because of its lucrative benefits. “Second is the advanced healthcare system, and the safety and security here are immense. It doesn’t matter what time of the day I step out of the house, I can freely walk on the streets,” she added.

While in the Philippines, Eyaya worked in a tertiary level four government hospital for eight years as a charged nurse in the operating room and pediatrics.

She has also worked as a part-time clinical instructor to various nursing students.

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Life in the Philippines

Eyaya and her husband were active members of non-government organizations that mainly focused on giving free dental, medical, and feeding programs.

Becoming a mother at 19, that was when she knew the balance of life. “Faced the consequences of my mischiefs yet fulfilling my dreams of being a nurse. The rough life and venture back home gave me a hint of trying my luck abroad. Gratefully, I am acquiring my dreams in Dubai as I age,” she said.

Eyaya, now 41, plans to start a business and watch her kids flourish as they age when retirement comes.

“Never let go of the opportunity. Never be afraid of taking risks and

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Lorna Dalisay Salud

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Struggled and faced consequences in life, Filipina finds success working internationally

Believing that the key to success is to focus on goals and not on obstacles, Lorna Dalisay Salud, an overseas Filipino worker in Dubai for 10 years, proves that one can excel while working in a strange country.

A graduate of Business Management and armed with 15 years of work experience, she moved to Dubai about 10 years ago to propel her career forward and be reunited with her husband. However, shortly after arriving in Dubai, her husband has passed away, leaving her as a single mother of young boys.

Salud landed a customer service job at one of the world’s leading logistic companies. In less than two years, she was promoted as the team leader for customer service as for being excellent at what she was doing.

During her last few years with the company, her responsibilities continued to grow as she ultimately ended up managing the complete 3PL operations and customer service for two key clients.

She then later left the logistics company and continued her overseas career at a transport logistics company as a senior sales executive, representing a fresh, new, and exciting challenge for her. Not even a full year, her hard work and consistent demonstration of abilities paid off. She was promoted as Manager—Freight and Contract Logistics, a role that merges her sales and logistics experience. A part of her work is to oversee the company’s 3PL business, and growing the volume for the coming years.

“Aside from the sense of accomplishment derived from achieving monthly sales target, I genuinely enjoy making relationships with prospective clients and spending time talking with people. I derive immense satisfaction from solving challenges that my clients pose to me, whether overcoming those issues needed to generate a sale, or resolving problems in the execution of

a contract,” she said.

Salud’s keen focus on their clients’ situation leveraged her strengths that include skills like listening to her them and trying to resolve their issues and ensuring a prompt response to any problem arising.

“In my new company, these strengths and my prior accomplishments have been recognized by management. They have been recently chosen me to lead the 3PL function of the company and to advance the business over the coming year,” she further added.

Dealing with grief as an expat Not even a year after reuniting with her husband, she lost him. Thinking of a beginning for their family’s future, Salud struggled to move forward with living her life alone in Dubai while the rest of her family members were in the Philippines.

“The sense of loss was so great for me that whenever I feel sad, nothing but crying helped to release the pain in my heart. After four years of grieving, I finally accepted that he was not coming back,” she said noting that during those ‘dark times’ she only had a few friends to comfort her.

“Nevertheless, this traumatic experience made me reflect on the point that my children relied on me now more than ever, which provided a keen point of focus during those times which continues to endure this day,” she further added.

‘Meeting someone new to share my life’ While thoroughly enjoying life in Dubai achieving one goal after another, Salud met someone new to share her life with.

When asked about her plans in the future now that she is 44 years old, she and her partner plan to move to Canada within the new future where she expects to continue to put her strengths and passion to work in a new environment.

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Jophel Ybiosa Multi-awarded and internationally acclaimed Filipino photographer Jophel Ybiosa has concluded 2020 with a big bang after receiving numerous accolades for his excellence in the field of photography.

Initially worked as a cruise ship photographer then eventually promoted as a master photographer, the world-class Filipino artist’s job includes portrait and events photography, processing photos, selling finished products, and providing excellent customer service to guests. “As a master, the task is to manage a premium studio onboard plus providing a unique photographic experience,” he added.

Before joining his current company, he previously worked as a photographer and videographer under the production house of a Filipino celebrity Robin Padilla. Ybiosa is also part of immersion programs and charity works mostly in Mindanao organized by the celebrity.

He also established the Team Juan Makasining, an arts and advocacy organization that aims to promote Philippine arts and culture through creative and meaningful works. The organization, in 2017, was hailed as Asia-Pacific Excellence Awardee for Outstanding Arts and Advocacy Organization.

As an artist, his primary purpose is to share with the world the positive images, inherent beauty, cultural identity, and meaningful story of the Philippines.

Historical achievements Some of his historical achievements include being the first Filipino to win the first prize in Chromatic Photography Awards; the first Filipino to win a Gold Award in New York Photo Fair; the first Filipino to win first place in Neutral Density Photography Awards; the first Filipino to win first place in the Events and Photography Competition of the Societies of International School and Event Photographers; the first Filipino to win Events Photographer of the year and included in the Best of Show Exhibition of Moscow International Foto Awards (MIFA).

Before 2020 concluded, on December 14, the multi-awarded

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Master photographer giving Philippines pride and honor through snaps

photographer became the very first Filipino to win Gold Awards from the Budapest International Foto Awards.

Through his snaps, he consistently represents the Philippines in various global international competitions and exhibitions with the goal of bringing honor to the country and contribute and putting it on the global map of photography.

Ybiosa is a nine-time National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Ani ng Dangal Awardee for Visual Arts.

“Photography is my passion that’s why I really love this job. Aside from traveling to various countries, the essential part of this job is the fulfillment of making someone happy through photography,” Ybiosa added.

Capturing the essence of different cultures, the beauty of places, and stories of people bring happiness to him.

Regardless of bringing pride to the Philippines, as an overseas Filipino worker (OFW), he also feels homesick, cultural differences, and work and financial problems. “I also endured those challenges in the beginning and I conquered through faith and perseverance and also with the help of my family, friends, and co-workers during trying times,” he said.

Amid uncertainties, the photographer said that it is always better to look at the brighter side of life and have faith in God. “Keep on learning and cultivate skills to conquer the challenging demands of an international career. Focus on the goal, have courage and determination, and take risks to succeed,” he added.

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Jordan Magno Pinoy senior concept designer shines out in Dubai Residing in Dubai for four years now, Jordan Magno, a senior concept designer in Danube Home, proves that Filipinos can rise above the challenges abroad.

A graduate of Fine Arts major in Industrial Design, his work entails him to conceptualize and come up with unique and fresh ideas in accordance with the given theme be it in magazines, showroom openings, window displays, or even shelves arrangement. He is very passionate in the field and can’t see himself doing something else other than making all things stunning and pleasant to the eye.

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For four consecutive years and since he joined the leading home improvement and home furnishing retail brand, Magno is hailed ‘Employee of the Year’ which only means that all his hard work, perseverance, and dedication have paid off. “I wouldn’t have achieved it without my entire team in the VM department,” he added.

Choosing Dubai When asked about his reason why he oped to work abroad, he said that it has always been the experience and the thrill of living on his own and managing the household. “It is the exciting idea of adulting and learning something every single day,” he said.

Secondly, according to him, Dubai offers an array of opportunities. “And as cliché as it sounds, the earning still counts. I will never hesitate to say that because we are able to provide enough and send our youngest brother to a good university with quality education,” he added.

Additionally, he also loves the multi-cultured vibe of the city, noting that unity and harmony are always there “I greatly appreciate how this country opens its doors for all of us who are looking for opportunity

“I chose this field because I enjoy designing. I enjoy the idea of putting my thoughts and ideas into work. I enjoy intricately designing even the smallest details of things. I love to see how my works are being appreciated. All efforts are always worth it as soon as I see people appreciate me,” he further added.

and a place to grow. It’s very welcoming. It might be nearly impossible to think that people with different views and opinions will go along but I saw it here,” the senior concept designer said.

“Rent and visa here in Dubai are expensive for someone who doesn’t have s stable job. Those two things will always be the first struggle,” Magno said.

Before embarking on an overseas life

Aside from working as a designer, he also decided to pursue one thing that he is equally passionate about and that is vlogging on social media. More so, this paved the way for him to share his first love and frustration which is singing.

After graduating from college, he didn’t waste a single day applying for a job. Luckily, he was employed in the company where he had his internship as an interior sales designer. For a couple of years, he learned more about the corporate world and how it works. He also invested time and effort in nurturing and improving his skills in conceptualizing and designing using different computer software before he pushed himself into something bigger and more exciting workplace abroad.

During his first few months in the emirate, he took part-time jobs as a make-up artist just to make ends meet.

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Tips for OFWs “Never give up. Goals are meant to be chased so don’t waste time. Put on your best face and go for it. Struggles, failures, and barriers will always be there along the way but remember that no goals are worth the chase without obstacles.

Surpassing it is always the exciting part of life.

Once you get there, you will understand that everything that you have experienced is worth it,” he added.

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Embarking on a thrilling adventure, HR specialist expands new horizon in Dubai A human resource professional with 10 years of experience in both academic and organizational operations, Dubai-based HR specialist Renjie A. Abellanida embarked on a ‘thrilling adventure’ into the Arab Gulf Tiger some six years ago with two main driving forces: to seek a better career opportunity and to experience a new life overseas.

With a Master’s degree in Public Administration major in Human Resource Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science (Cum Laude), the 29-year-old Filipino tried his luck outside his comfort zone and explored Dubai. Abellanida was part of a Dubai-based engineering consultancy and an Abu Dhabi-based oil and gas firm from 2015 until 2018 where he served as an HR administrator and was awarded as the Employee of the Year.

Currently, he worked as an HR specialist at Skyline University, a premier university located in the University City of Sharjah, UAE. As an HR generalist, he has a broad range of responsibilities covering most of the human resource functions, including personnel management, compensation, and benefits management, among others.

“Well, I thrive in the excitement of a fast-paced workplace. Working at Skyline University, I must say that I am having a great time and I am looking forward to learning new things because the institution provides endless opportunities. Also, it has a dynamic atmosphere that values everyone’s efforts and respects what an employee can bring to the organization,” he said.

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Renjie A. Abellanida

Abellanida, when asked about the things he likes about working in the emirate, said it’s the government’s initiative to lead in various aspects that provide a big impact on the world.

“Dubai, is no doubt, a melting pot of cultures and a fountain of opportunities for those who dare to dream big. It creates new and exciting job opportunities for those looking to move abroad. It has established a diverse employment industry and provides great chances for expats like me. Another major attraction in Dubai is that the government does not impose any tax on salaries, which is always very good news for OFWs’ pockets,” he further added.

Just like many migrant workers, he also struggled initially before getting settled--first with homesickness and next with the extreme weathers of the county: a very hot and humid summer, and very cold and chilling winter.

“Homesickness, on the other hand, is the distress caused by being away from home and that means away from my comfort zone. At one point, I felt separation anxiety. Nonetheless, I was able to overcome such challenges by reminding myself of the reason why I transferred to UAE, and that reason is my family who taught me how to live my life the best way possible,” he said noting that no matter what the circumstances are, it is always his responsibility to give them the good life they deserved.

So far, Abellanida hasn’t given a serious thought about his life after Dubai. “I will cross the bridge when I get there,” he said.

“For me, working in a multi-cultural office was a great experience because I was able to see the world from a different perspective,” he added.

Weigh ‘needs’ vs ‘wants’

Before kicking off his overseas journey, Abellanida first got into the academic industry in 2010 as a college faculty at Mindanao State University, making him the youngest faculty member to be hired at the age of 18. There, he worked with students and help them improve their skills so they can pursue a good career. Additionally, he also played a pivotal role in the same institution by developing instructional plans for the courses and made sure that it met the university standards.

Abellanida said that OFWs should always remember that attaining financial stability is very important, especially now that the world is facing uncertainties and tough times because of the Covid-19 crisis.

Dubai: A place for those who dare to dream big

28

“Everything boils down to finances and the correlation between needs and wants,” he said.

“You must also weight your ‘need’ versus your ‘wants’, even if you can afford the item, you should not spend that much if you don’t need it,” he said.

The

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THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Image credit: supplied

Arlie Villarmia ‘Rakitera’ in Dubai now a make-up specialist in prestigious beauty brand in Dubai pre-loved clothes, bags, and shoes,” she added.

Accomplishments, plans

A former ‘rakitera’ or a person who has a lot of income-generating activities, Arlie Villarmia’s reason why she worked abroad is to help her family and provide them the assistance that they deserve. Started working as a freelance worker in Dubai, Villarmia has collaborated with numerous agencies to work as an events usherette, events coordinator, beauty brand promoter, and freelance commercial model.

She revealed that through her earnings for almost four years, she was able to help her mother pay up loans and send money to family members left in the Philippines. As someone who wants to pay it forward, she used to give her salaries to her mother and only ask for a certain amount to buy essentials.

With over 10 years of work experience abroad, among the accomplishment of the Dubai-based make-up specialist is a vehicle, properties and investments in the Philippines, and managing a number of flats in the UAE. Villarmia also plans to have their ancestral house revamped and tour her family members in their favorite places.

When retirement comes, the rakitera plans to spearhead a business in the Philippines so she can bring her family members in Dubai back to their province. “I am not staying to plan here longer, pag nakakita nako ng right opportunity for me, uwi na rin ako for good kasama family ko,” she said.

She lived independently, tried to live as a bed spacer, moved to a partition until she gets to finally live in a decent room. At first, according to her, living alone was difficult especially in terms of managing her expenses. She got overwhelmed with the situation--she purchased a lot of items here and there, sent a big amount of money to the Philippines, until everything got out of hand. “Masaklap mgkakautang ka pa dahil wala ka nang pangkain kasi wala nang natira sa pera mo. Kadalasan kasi tayong mga Filipino, habang lumalaki income, lumalaki din expenses natin,” she said.

Admittedly, she learned her lessons. She found herself again producing income-generating activities while working as a full-time make-up specialist.

Villarmia has been to paid photoshoots, pageants, and ‘muse’ to several basketball leagues. “Go lang nang go basta may TF [talent fee]. Lalo na sa panahon ngayon uso na online, nagbibenta din ako ng mga food,

Image credit: supplied

“Masaya na ako doon. Hanggang sa dumating yung point na I wanted to be independent,” she said until she was hired as a make-up specialist for a prestigious beauty brand in the emirate.

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THE STORY OF GLOBAL FILIPINOS, THE STORY OF OUR SUCCESS

Filipino civil engineer in Saudi helps fulfill visions of co-engineers A result-driven multi-disciplinary professional, Saudi Arabia-based Supervision Consultant in Civil Engineering Jojo Ruiz Utram is one of the few Filipinos in the Kingdom who constructed the largest university for women in the world--Princess Noura Bint Abdulrahman University for Women.

Before starting an overseas life in the host country, Utram’s first journey as a Filipino migrant worker was as a general civil engineer at Downtown Construction WLL in the Kingdom of Bahrain between 2006 and 2008. Resign through the ranks, he was appointed as QS civil engineer cum land surveyor for various projects of the company and was later promoted to a project-in-charge for the improvement of villages and various road infrastructure projects.

Currently, he is part of an Austria-based firm with major duties to supervise consultancy, site engineering, and management for civil and structural disciplines.

A consistent achiever during his college years, he passed the civil engineering board exams in 1995. A year after passing the board exams for civil engineers, he hurdled the Junior Geodetic Engineering Board Exam and earned a remarkable rating of 91 percent garnering a 100 percent score in Mathematics.

While in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Council of Engineers bestowed him the highest degree as a Consultant in Civil Engineering in 2015. Meanwhile, in the same year, the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organizations in Malaysia conferred him as an ASEAN engineer. Not later than two years, Utram was conferred as a Water Engineering Specialist by the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers.

“Mathematics is one of my favorite subjects and doing good and getting high grades in this subject made me more confident to push through my ambition in life to become a successful civil engineer someday,” he said. His good analytical and mathematical abilities are his edges in dealing with civil engineering problems and other complex difficulties.

It is without a doubt that Utram is an honorable, respected, and hardworking member o the Filipino community in Riyadh. His invaluable contribution to the success and achievements of the Philippine Council of Engineers and Architects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in many capacities cannot be ignored. The

Image credit: supplied

Jojo Ruiz Utram

organization has corroborated with the Saudi Council of Engineers that caused the advancement of about 30,000 Filipino engineers and architects.

Utram is one of the few multi-disciplinary professionals who held the position as the chairman of the esteemed Philippine Professional Organization-Central Region of Saudi Arabia (PPO-CRSA) in 2015. While spearheading the organization, he brought in the basic learning of the quality management system within the organization for more organized and procedural collaborations among the council members of the organization.

Around 1,700 out of 5,000 professionals have been benefitted in fulfilling their dreams of becoming licensed professionals in the central region from 2010 until 2019.

He started his journey as a volunteer reviewer of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers in Riyadh for its civil engineering review program in preparation for the 2010 Special Professional Licensure Board Examination for Civil Engineers (SPLBE). He imparted lectures in Surveying, Mathematics, and Transportation Engineering for 10 consecutive years and still doing. The civil engineering review program of the chapter has been successful and produced about 70 licensed engineers and has garnered topnotchers since 2011.

The civil engineer has been one of the instruments in fulfilling the great vision of the chapter to yield highly competent but caring civil engineers.

The educator was also responsible for the chartering of the Geodetic Engineers of the Philippines-Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (GEP-KSA) Chapter and served twice as the president and founding vice president in 2014 and 2015.

“Helping others and seeing them become successful licensed professionals and technicians, and inculcating with them the value of integrity and kindness, we encourage them to be volunteers and give lectures for the lesson they learned from SPLE review programs, for me, is the most satisfying and fulfilling accomplishment as a professional as well as a volunteer, the legacy for being a good steward of professionalism and volunteerism,” he said.

The

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MR. GABRIEL JOHN RIMANDO Filipino Institute Founder And President "Hats off to the new batch of graduates! It was never easy to graduate considering the current situation but you dare not to give up. If you did, you will never be a step closer to your dreams. I am glad that you were able to make it through. The Filipino Institute is so proud of you! Congratulations!"

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MRS. CAMILLE JOY FRANCO - RIMANDO Filipino Institute Co-Founder And CEO "What you are reaping today is the result of your sincerity, hard work, and patience. And now, you are moving to a new and exciting chapter in your life. I wish you all the best for the future that lies ahead. Congratulations on your graduation."

Congratulations Filipino Institute Graduates!

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A success, indeed!’:

New review and testing centre opened in Dubai A new review and testing centre has been recently unveiled in Dubai to further help Filipinos in the emirate on their professional journey.

The Success Wisdom Professional and Management Development Training LLC’s review and learning centre was on December 28, at the Mezzanine N1, Al Hawai Building, Al Rigga, Deira, United Arab Emirates.

Review centres in the emirates are extremely important to expats who want to gain more knowledge about their chosen field.

Situated beside the Hyatt Palace Hotel in Al Rigga, the centre will initially introduce IELTS preparatory and testing programs, computer courses, among others.

Gabriel John Rimando, the Founder and the President of the company, said the review and testing centre is committed to producing licensed professionals by improving their skills and proficiency.

Rimando, who is also the owner of the Filipino Institute, a five-year-old training institute based in UAE that has already produced 100,000 graduates in the Middle East, added that the review centre will also offer quality education at an affordable rate.

“We are so excited to welcome our kababayans here now that it’s already opened. The threat of COVID-19 is still there, but we are taking all the precautionary measures set by the national government so our customers will be at peace when they enroll here,” he added.

Jennie Corpuz Batara, his business partner, said that in this ever-changing technology landscape, it is important to stay competitive and successful.

“This has led us to put up a testing and exam centre,” she added.

During the ribbon-cutting ceremonies, Rimando’s wife, Ms. Camille Joy Franco-Rimando; Deputy Consul Renato Duenas of the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai; Mr. Jalal Sanaurrahman, the country manager of Royal Brunei; Mr. Mars Marcial, the general manager of Makati Express Cargo; 1st Corporal Police Officer Mohammed Almatrooshi, Giebeth Ellaine T. Laxamana International Specialist, Ranjith Singh Owner of Ingenuity Events & Productions, have graced the event.

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