The Global Filipino Magazine | Volume 3 Issue 12

TABLE OF CONTENTs

EDITORIAL BOARD

GABRIEL JOHN RIMANDO Publisher

RYAN NAMIA Editor-in-Chief

ANGELO DUMAG Associate Editor

ORLI GAYETA Sales and Marketing Manager

JOHN PAUL COSICO Sales and Marketing

ALLAN CARAGAO Senior Graphic Designer

JONATHAN DUMAS Multimedia Manager

RAYMART PATULOT Distribution Manager

QASSIM QUERESHI Distribution Officer

GILBERT GOMEZ Distribution Officer

CONTACT US

info@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com www.theglobalfilipinomagazine.com

From Kalibo to Dubai: The journey of CEO and fashion designer - Benjamin C. Dela Rosa II

Meet Dubai’s first female double-decker bus driver from the Philippines - Marygoldcez Diwa De Castro

Pinay Mums in UAE: Empowering Filipina mothers living abroad - Andrea Sanidad-Brindley

From construction secretary to salon entrepreneur - Eva Jeciel Bambao

Against all odds: An OFW-turned-businesswoman’s journey of overcoming challenges and achieving success - Sarah Samson

Trailblazer Bernadette ‘Cha’ Eslais: The Filipina entrepreneur breaking barriers in Dubai - Bernadette “Cha” Eslais

Moscow Metro unveils world’s longest Circular subway line

From receptionist to account manager: The inspiring journey of an OFW in Dubai - Yasmin Oronos

Meet Ian Sardoma Dable: A tale of hard work and triumph abroad - Ian Sardoma Dable

An exemplary Filipina business consultant and lead manager in UAE - Jasmin C. Garcia

The rising star of Erock in the Philippines - Red Santiago

Benjamin C. Dela Rosa II

Kalibo to Dubai: The journey of CEO and fashion designer

From

The life of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is not an easy one. Leaving behind loved ones and familiar surroundings, they travel to foreign countries in search of a better life for themselves and their families. In this article, we will take a look at the life of Benjamin C. Dela Rosa II, a 44-year-old CEO/Creative Director of Calivo Couture in the UAE, and gain insight into his experiences as an OFW.

Benjamin Dela Rosa II was born and raised in Kalibo, Aklan, and is the fourth of four children. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in Computer Management, and a Bachelor of Secondary Education, majoring in PEHM. In 2005, he arrived in Sharjah, UAE, with the help of his cousin, who was working as a fashion designer in the same company where Benjamin worked as an assistant fashion designer/ finisher. He was responsible for dress embellishments, following the design of his head designer.

Benjamin’s career highlight came

when he started his own fashion line, Calivo Couture. He sponsored swimwear for Man of the Philippines UAE, which led to promotions and referrals, catching the eye of the former Consul General of Dubai and Northern Emirates, Sir Paul Cortes, and Dra. Yasmin Cortes. The couple ordered a suit and barong for Consul Paul, and soon after, Filipino celebrities followed suit. He

was recently able to make suits and barongs for Miss Universe 2018, 3rd runner-up from Vietnam, Miss Henn Nie. He was nominated as Top 3 Most Promising Fashion Designer of The Filipino Times Awards 2019 and received the Gawad Pinoy Excellence Award in Fashion Design 2020 from the Filipino Social Club - UAE.

The main reason why Benjamin opted to work abroad was to widen his horizon and for self-development. He also wanted to help his family back home. He sent nephews and nieces to college and considered it one of his achievements. Before he flew to Dubai, he was a hair and make-up artist, dance choreographer, flower arranger, and fashion designer while studying.

Benjamin enjoyed being in the field of arts and fashion. He described it as something he enjoyed doing, even though it felt like he was just playing around. Working overseas has made it easier for him to provide for his family. He earns more than he would have in the Philippines, which makes it easier for him to send his nephews and nieces to college and buy properties.

The struggles of being an OFW were not lost on Benjamin. He understood that no one can reach their success without facing and conquering trials. Through hard work, being straightforward and true to his clients, the power of prayer, and the support of his family and closest friends, he was able to overcome the struggles that he faced.

Benjamin’s future plans include staying in Dubai for a while since his business is there. However, he wants to teach advanced fashion design courses to the new generation in his hometown if he ever decides to go back to the Philippines.

In conclusion, Benjamin C. Dela Rosa II’s story is a testament to the sacrifices that OFWs make in order to provide for their loved ones. Despite the challenges he has faced, he was able to achieve his goals and dreams. His success in the fashion industry is a source of inspiration for other OFWs who are also pursuing their dreams in foreign lands.

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image credit: supplied

Marygoldcez Diwa De Castro

Meet Dubai’s first female double-decker bus driver from the Philippines

Marygoldcez Diwa De Castro is not your typical bus driver. At 37 years old, she is a wife, mother of two, and the first female double-decker bus driver in Dubai. Her story is one of determination, resilience, and overcoming the odds to pursue her dreams.

Originally from the Philippines, Marygoldcez came to Dubai in 2019, seeking better job opportunities and a brighter future for herself and her family. Her first job was as a sales lady, but she quickly realized that driving was her true passion. In the Philippines, she had experience driving a coaster van, and when she learned about the opportunity to

become a bus driver in Dubai, she jumped at the chance.

Marygoldcez joined the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in July 2020, as one of the first three women deployed in the city’s internal bus network. She started by handling shorter routes for Dubai Metro feeder buses, but soon proved herself capable of handling longer routes, including Route 22 (Deira City Centre to Al Nahda), Route 53 (International City to Gold Souq), Route 55 (International City to Satwa), and the Al Warsan to Al Nahda 1 route.

Being a female double-decker bus driver in a male-dominated field

comes with its challenges, but Marygoldcez is undaunted. She takes pride in her job and the opportunity to showcase her skills and talents. She enjoys driving the double-decker bus and finds it enjoyable despite the changes from driving a coaster van.

Marygoldcez’s story is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. She worked hard to get where she is today, juggling her roles as a wife, mother, and bus driver with grace and dedication. She credits her family, especially her husband and daughters, for helping her overcome the struggles and trials she has faced.

Looking to the future, Marygoldcez and her husband are planning to build their own house and start a business. She hopes to continue driving and inspiring other women to pursue their dreams, no matter how challenging they may seem.

Marygoldcez’s message to others is one of positivity, faith, and perseverance. She encourages everyone to stay positive, trust in God, and have a strong heart and mind to overcome the struggles they face. Her story serves as an inspiration to all those who aspire to achieve their dreams and make a difference in their communities.

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image credit: supplied

Andrea SanidadBrindley

Pinay Mums in UAE: Empowering Filipina mothers living abroad

For Filipina mothers living abroad, finding a sense of belonging can be a daunting task. Not only are they away from their families and friends, but they also face different cultural norms and challenges. However, Andrea Sanidad-Brindley, a 27-yearold small business owner, created a community that is helping these mothers find the support they need.

Pinay Mums in UAE started as a Facebook group named “First Time Mamas UAE” in April 2020. SanidadBrindley, who was pregnant at the time, was worried that her existing friends who were single would not be able to relate to her journey as a mother. So, she followed her mother’s suggestion and searched for a group to join but couldn’t find one, so she created her own.

As the group grew, it eventually evolved into “Pinay Mums UAE,” catering specifically to Filipina mothers. The group’s mission is to provide a safe and supportive space for its members, where they can share their experiences, ask for advice, and form genuine connections.

However, growing and managing the

community group comes with its own set of challenges. Sanidad-Brindley faces the ongoing task of setting and updating rules to maintain the group’s peace and vision. Despite these challenges, Pinay Mums in UAE has flourished over the past two years, with Facebook itself recognizing the group’s growth and engagement.

The impact that Pinay Mums in UAE has had on the lives of its members is significant. The group has become a “Motherhood directory” for many members, where they can find answers to their questions instead of searching the internet. The community has also become a family for many, with members finding lifelong friends and even starting small businesses with each other’s support.

Sanidad-Brindley emphasizes the importance of community support, especially for Filipina mothers living abroad. She believes that no one should be alone in their journey and that everyone deserves to have a community that can relate to their challenges.

To ensure that the community group

remains a safe and supportive space for its members, Pinay Mums in UAE relies on its members to make choices that are kind and supportive. The community has the power to report any violations, and SanidadBrindley and her team analyze and remove them if necessary.

Pinay Mums in UAE has also organized events and activities for its members, including parties and get-togethers. The most recent event was the “Connect, Collaborate & Celebrate Event” on March 5, 2023, where members had the opportunity to network and showcase their small businesses.

Looking ahead, Sanidad-Brindley’s vision for Pinay Mums in UAE remains the same: to support its members. She plans to continue organizing events and activities for the members and their families, and has even bigger plans for the future.

Andrea Sanidad-Brindley’s mantra in life is “You can do anything you put your mind into.” Her creation of Pinay Mums in UAE is a testament to that, as she has created a supportive community that empowers Filipina mothers living abroad.

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Eva Jeciel Bambao

From construction secretary to salon entrepreneur

Eva Jeciel Bambao is a successful salon owner and manager based in Dubai, UAE. Originally from Cavite, Philippines, Eva has spent almost four years working abroad, with her salon, Le Mora Ladies Salon, offering top-quality salon services to clients throughout Dubai.

Eva’s journey to working overseas began as a result of the desire for a higher income, as well as the concern that the Taal volcano eruption in the Philippines could have a negative impact on the economy. Prior to working abroad, Eva worked for a construction company for 19 years as a secretary. During this time, she developed her business skills, which would serve her well in her future endeavors.

In addition to her work, Eva is also the founder of the Cavite Volunteer’s Act Inc., a non-government organization in the Philippines that provides free medical and dental missions. This organization has been running for almost 15 years and is still going strong today, a testament to Eva’s dedication to helping others.

Eva’s passion for her work is evident in her dedication to constantly

improving and learning. She recalls having a dream in her 30s about having a healing hand, which she was able to make a reality after 12 years of hard work. Eva never imagined that she would end up in the salon industry, let alone making a name for herself both in the Philippines and overseas.

Working overseas has provided Eva with many opportunities, including the chance to experience different cultures and meet people from all over the world. She credits her time abroad with helping her grow as an individual, and is grateful for the experience.

Of course, working overseas also comes with its own set of challenges. For Eva, her biggest struggle came in the form of her former employer cancelling her visa without her knowledge. She continued to work for them for three months without a visa, putting her life at risk. Despite this, Eva managed to overcome the situation with the help of her faith

and the support of those around her.

Looking to the future, Eva is focused on growing her salon business and expanding it to help more people, both by providing quality salon services and by creating jobs for others. She hopes to make a difference in the lives of her fellow Filipinos and anyone else she can help through her business.

To those struggling abroad, Eva advises staying humble and seeking guidance from God. She also encourages everyone to never give up on their dreams, no matter their age or circumstances. Eva’s own success story is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work.

Eva urges all Filipino overseas workers to never stop improving and dreaming, and to make their country proud by excelling in their chosen careers. Her own accomplishments serve as a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication, passion, and hard work.

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image credit: supplied

Sarah Samson

Against all odds: An OFW-turnedbusinesswoman’s journey of overcoming challenges and achieving success

Sarah Samson is a woman who has faced numerous challenges in her life, but she has never let those difficulties break her spirit. She is a 39-year-old business executive distributor and entrepreneur who currently works for three different companies –Pearly Skin Beauty, RBS Graphic Studio, and Samson Travel. She has been living overseas for 13 years now, and she believes in the mantra “Design your life you want to live”.

As a child, Sarah started her career by selling vegetables and anything that could help her meet her daily needs at school. She learned to make candies and sold school supplies and even did projects for her teachers and classmates to save her expenses at school. Despite facing fears and

being bullied, she stood tall and shared her experiences in life. She was always eager to do school group projects for her classmates because she was paid for it. However, the snobbish, rich classmates would ask her to make the project reports at school on a weekly basis, and they even called her names just to trigger her faith.

When Sarah started working in the UAE as a salesperson, she struggled with overcoming the feeling of being lesser than others based on her lineage.

“I know the struggle of overcoming what it feels like to be lesser than others based on a lineage that I am now openly proud to identify with,” she said.

Over the years, she changed her careers several times, going from sales to banking. Raising children alone was her most challenging situation, especially when she was alone. This is why she had to think of alternative ways to secure their future.

“I have to think of alternatives because the most affected are the children, I’m talking about their future,” she added.

Sarah’s journey was not easy, but she overcame crippling insecurities, devastating heartbreaks, and moments where she considered letting her dreams fade away. However, she remained resolved not to be a victim of these difficulties.

The reason Sarah left her country

was that there was no sustainability for her children’s future. She faced economic crises and even became jobless for a year in 2017. During that time, she used her car as a home and also used it for transportation to pick up and drop people so she could earn a few coins for her survival. She managed to finish strong, all along the way, finding her purpose. Despite being homeless and jobless, the most painful part was leaving her children behind when she decided to leave her hometown.

Before becoming a business executive distributor and entrepreneur, Sarah worked as a Client Services Provider in one of the Top Government Bank Company in Abu Dhabi. She worked in the Wholesale Transaction Banking Department and was an excellent team player, receiving an appreciation and award from the head department. Sarah is a very organized person who takes pride in her work.

Sarah lives by her mantra and encourages others to do the same. Sarah’s journey has been tough, but she never let the difficulties get the best of her. Instead, she used them as stepping stones to her success. She has become a limitless woman, and she acknowledges that the boundaries she once faced have been broken.

Sarah’s story is an inspiration to many. She has shown that with determination and hard work, one can overcome any obstacle. She is an example of how one can turn their struggles into success. Sarah is an entrepreneur who has made a name for herself in the industry. She is an excellent business executive distributor who takes pride in her work. Sarah’s journey is a reminder that no matter how hard life gets, one can always rise above it. Her mantra in life is a testament to that. She is a beauty advocate, a game-changer, and a woman of the future who designs the life she wants to live.

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Bernadette “Cha” Eslais

Trailblazer Bernadette ‘Cha’

Eslais: The Filipina entrepreneur breaking barriers in Dubai

Bernadette “Cha” Eslais is a trailblazer in the truest sense of the word. From a humble employee to coowner of multiple businesses, Cha has inspired women of diverse cultures to pursue their dreams in Dubai. Her unwavering tenacity, passion, and vision have led her to break barriers and defy discrimination, proving that gender and nationality should never be a hindrance to success.

Cha’s journey started when she left the Philippines at the young age of 22, seeking a more promising future in Dubai. Starting her career as a simple employee in a construction company, she then moved to become a pioneer employee at Xclusive Yachts, the largest yacht charter company in the Middle East. Over her 12 years there, Cha brought in progressive ideas and verticals that added tremendous value to the company.

But Cha was not content with just being an employee. She believed that “everything can be learned as long as you put your heart into it” and that when you love what you do, you can achieve anything. With this mindset, she ventured into entrepreneurship, eventually becoming the founder, co-owner, and CEO of Wrap Zone, an interior wrapping transformation company based in Dubai. Notably,

she is the first Filipina to operate and venture in the interior wrapping industry in the UAE.

But Cha’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. She also ventured into high-end custom framing services and an art gallery called Art Point. Notwithstanding her limited knowledge in this field, Cha’s fervor and determination prompted her to co-establish Art Point brand along with her local business partners Mohamed Abdulaziz Janahi and Hatem Khalil Al Sayegh.

Art Point recently had its soft launch on March 16, 2023, positioning itself as a leader in the framing industry with a team of over a decade of experience and servicing international famous brands like Karl Lagerfeld for the framing of private art exhibit. It also extends its resource to include an impressive art gallery opening doors of opportunity to budding and successful artists for both local and international artists. Again, this marks yet another remarkable achievement for Cha, as she is the first and only Filipina to open an art gallery in the UAE to date.

But Cha’s success didn’t come easy. Juggling multiple responsibilities was a real challenge, and time management was key. Building a

reliable and trustworthy team was the next challenge, especially since she was still learning about the industry. As a Filipina in a foreign country, Cha also faced discrimination. But she persevered and pushed through, proving that with passion and hard work, anything is possible.

Cha’s vision for Art Point is to make a significant contribution to the art scene in Dubai by regularly hosting exhibitions, consignments, and collaborations that promote both established and unrecognized artists. She wants to use Art Point’s offline and online channels to provide a platform for artists to showcase their works and connect them with a wider audience. In the near future, Art Point aims to create a vibrant and engaging art community in Dubai, with a range of events and activities that promote art and culture.

Cha is an inspiration to women everywhere. She is proof that with determination, passion, and hard work, anyone can achieve their dreams, no matter what obstacles they may face. Her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to empowering artists have made her a trailblazer in the UAE, and her success is a testament to what can be achieved when you believe in yourself and your abilities.

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image credit: supplied

Moscow Metro unveils world’s longest Circular subway line

Moscow has once again made history with the opening of the Big Circle Line (BCL), which is now officially the longest subway ring in the world. The BCL was inaugurated on March 1, 2023, by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin. The completion of the BCL marks the biggest change to public transportation in the city in 70 years.

The BCL is a significant modernization and expansion of the Moscow subway system, which integrates all existing and prospective radial lines of the subway and provides interchanges to other modes of transport. The construction of the line took place in record time, with the first section opened in 2018. The line’s total length is 70 kilometers, with 31 stations and 3 depots. The BCL extends through 34 districts of the city, which are home to 3.3 million people, or 30% of Moscow’s population. The line’s completion means that 1.2 million Muscovites now have a metro station within walking distance.

During a press tour for the Big Circle Line, we had the opportunity to visit several new metro stations. The official night event kicked off at the Nagatinsky Zaton metro station, where Egor Kovalyov, the senior

specialist of the Moscow Transport Career Centre, gave us a tour of different metro stations, including Rizhkaya, Sokolniki, among other new metro stations. Each station we visited was adorned with beautiful artwork, showcasing the city’s culture and history.

Maria Khilchenko, the head of the Moscow Metro External RelationsDepartment, was also present during the press tour and happily answered questions from the international press.

The BCL project has brought the metro to new areas of the city, and passengers can now take more convenient routes that do not require them to travel through the city center. The new circular route is expected to reduce congestion on other metro lines by up to 25% and cut road traffic in Moscow by up to 15%. The BCL project has taken into account the likely future development of the city over the coming decades and has a large margin of capacity, according to the Moscow city government.

Moreover, the BCL has already produced an increase in property prices of 15% to 20% in areas close to the new BCL stations, according to Moscow Metro. The new line has created 6,000 new job vacancies at Moscow Metro itself and is expected

in the next few years to create up to 150,000 further jobs in areas served by the new BCL stations.

The high-tech services of the Moscow Metro are available to the passengers of the Line, including the most convenient ways to pay. All ticket gates on the BCL accept contactless payment by bank card, and two gates in each ticket hall are equipped with Moscow Metro’s biometric fare payment system. The BCL rolling stock fleet includes the Moscow Metro’s most recent type, the Moskva-2020 train that features wide doors and gangways, USB ports between seats, and an airconditioning and disinfection system. The new trains are also equipped with a passenger information system that features line diagram displays above the doors and interactive route planners. Passenger comfort is enhanced through improved sound insulation and adaptive lighting, which changes intensity according to the time of day.

The Big Circle Line is a significant development for the Moscow subway system and the city as a whole. The completion of the BCL marks a new era for public transportation in the city, providing convenience and comfort to millions of commuters and tourists.

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Yasmin Oronos

From receptionist to account manager: The inspiring journey of an OFW in Dubai

Yasmin Oronos is a woman who has overcome significant challenges to establish herself as a successful Account Manager at Luna PR, a marketing and public relations agency in Dubai. Born and raised in Leyte, Philippines, Yasmin relocated to Dubai in 2012 with the hopes of securing a bright future for herself and her family. Her journey was not easy, but her unwavering dedication and commitment to her goals propelled her to where she is today.

extreme weather conditions that she was not accustomed to, making it a challenge to adapt to the intense heat of the city.

Despite these challenges, Yasmin persevered, keeping her focus on her end goal and refusing to allow setbacks to derail her aspirations. Her appreciation for the difficulties she encountered has been instrumental in propelling her forward, and she remains grateful for the opportunities she has been afforded.

urges them to prioritize the wellbeing and needs of their families while proactively seeking out opportunities to advance their technological skills and knowledge. Additionally, Yasmin believes that it is essential to be selective in choosing friends, ensuring that they are supportive and beneficial to one’s life. Finally, she encourages her kabayans to extend help to others whenever possible, as this will not only benefit them but also foster a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction within themselves.

Yasmin began her career in the advertising industry as a receptionist, dedicating eight years of her life to the industry before advancing to a coordination position. She then transitioned to the role of PR Account Executive, where she developed her skills and gained a deeper understanding of the industry. Today, she serves as an accomplished Account Manager, leveraging her experience and expertise to drive success for her clients.

Yasmin’s journey was not without its struggles, however. Upon arriving in Dubai, she felt lonely and homesick, compounded by the fact that she had left her young daughter behind in the Philippines. Adjusting to a new environment and interacting with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds proved to be a significant hurdle, requiring a period of adaptation and acclimation. Yasmin also faced

One of the most satisfying things about Yasmin’s current work is the opportunity it provides her to build a broad network of contacts, particularly within the media and business sectors. By facilitating successful events, she gains a deeper understanding of the workings of the industry and cultivates connections with professionals from around the globe. Additionally, the position affords her the ability to aid in the growth of businesses, and the sense of satisfaction that comes with executing a successful event is immeasurable.

Yasmin’s long-term plan is to establish herself as a respected and accomplished professional within the field of public relations, serving as a role model and source of inspiration to women across all walks of life. Concurrently, she is committed to maintaining the health and unity of her family while actively seeking opportunities to make meaningful contributions to society through acts of service and support.

For Yasmin, hard work is the key to success, and she lives by the mantra that nothing beats a hard-working person. She advises her fellow Filipinos who may be struggling to find their passion and purpose in life to devote themselves wholeheartedly to hard work and prayer. She also

Yasmin’s story is one of perseverance, determination, and hard work. Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, she refused to let them derail her aspirations, and she emerged stronger and more resilient as a result. Today, she serves as an inspiration to her fellow Filipinos, and she is proof that with dedication, commitment, and hard work, anything is possible.

Ian Sardoma Dable

Meet Ian Sardoma

Dable: A tale of hard work and triumph abroad

Living in a foreign land can be daunting, especially when you are away from family and friends. But for Ian Sardoma Dable, it was an opportunity to excel in his chosen field and reach his goals.

Ian, 35 years old, is an Email Support Representative for Etisalat UAE and Global Business Customers. He started working for the company in August 2015 as a Customer Service Representative and was later promoted to the position of NonVoice Support Associate for Business Customers in UAE. He is responsible for handling billing issues, inquiries, and technical problems faced by Etisalat customers around the clock through email. Ian is considered an escalation point or second-line support in place to investigate and fix incidents and requests that cannot be resolved by Frontline Customer Service.

As an SK Chairman at the age of 18, Ian learned the importance of serving the community and helping out-of-school youth. He also spent almost five years employed in the Call Center industry, catering to the needs of Australian clients. With his strong desire to succeed and establish his own business, Ian ventured

overseas, leaving the comforts of his home country, the Philippines.

For Ian, working abroad provides him with the luxury of being able to indulge in his desires and travel to his heart’s content. During public holidays or annual leave, he has explored a variety of foreign destinations that he may not have had the chance to see otherwise.

However, it was not an easy journey for Ian. He had to endure struggles, especially when he started his business, IncreDable Café, in Leyte. Ian was low on funds, but with the unwavering support and generosity of his family, aunt, uncle, sister-inlaw, friends, and colleagues, his café went on to achieve great success.

Despite the challenges, Ian remains passionate about his work. Working at Etisalat, the leading telecom provider in the UAE, has been a source of pride for him. Having the opportunity to serve both UAE and international clients under the prestigious Etisalat brand is a privilege. While the job can be challenging, working in a multicultural team still brings a sense of camaraderie and enthusiasm to the workplace, inspiring them to work hard towards their goals.

Looking ahead, Ian sees himself

managing both his villa and café business, IncreDable Café, while embarking on travels around the world with his family. He firmly believes that time spent with loved ones, creating cherished memories, is time well spent.

To our fellow kabayans struggling abroad, Ian’s advice is to prioritize working smart over working hard. This approach will help you find solutions to even the most challenging tasks. It’s also essential to make time for something you genuinely enjoy. Take a break from your oh-so-busylife and include quality leisure time. Travel while you’re young. You don’t have to be rich to travel well, and you won’t resent it later in life.

Ian also emphasizes the importance of being mindful of your spending. At times, you have to say “no” to good things to be able to say “yes” to important things. You can’t do it all. Be mindful and choose wisely.

Lastly, Ian suggests making more room for people who inspire you, people you can learn from, and people who are your role models. Focus on the good qualities you want to mimic. Remember, you are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with. When you know your circle, you never have to worry about people drilling holes in your boat.

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Jasmin

C. Garcia

An exemplary Filipina business consultant and lead manager in UAE

Working abroad has been a dream for many Filipinos as it gives an opportunity to learn about different cultures, traditions, and work ethics. Filipinos are known to be hardworking, dedicated, and passionate about their jobs. Jasmin C. Garcia, a Filipina Business Consultant and Lead Manager, is a perfect example of how Filipinos excel and succeed in their respective fields while working overseas.

Jasmin C. Garcia, a 48-year-old Filipina, has been working in the UAE for almost 22 years. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Adamson in Manila, Philippines and her Master’s degree in Child Psychology from De La Salle University in the same city. She also completed her Human Resources and Administration Diploma Professional from the Filipino Institute in Dubai, UAE. Her educational background has been instrumental in shaping her career path in the industry of Business Development, Customer Service, Account Management, and HR Management.

With a 20-year history of surpassing high sales quotas within highly

competitive markets, Jasmin is an exceptional communicator with a consultative sales style. She has excellent account management skills, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and a keen client need assessment aptitude. Her core professional competencies include Strategic Sales and Marketing Campaigns, Executive Presentation and Negotiations, Budgeting, Forecasting, and Planning, Prospecting and Lead Generation, Key Account Acquisition and Retention, Cross-Functional Leadership, Staff Development and Management, and Customer Relationship Management.

Jasmin has worked with several companies in the FM industry in UAE, including Al Shirawi Facilities Management LLC, Portadata Solutions JLT, Coreserv Building Contracting, and Al Ikhaa Contracting Co. LLC. Currently, she is a Business Consultant and Lead Manager for Marina FM, a SemiGovernment organization in the UAE. Her role includes business development, customer service, account management, and HR management.

Jasmin’s exceptional skills and dedication to her work have earned her several recognitions and achievements. She is one of the chosen ten resilient women in the UAE FM industry for the year 2022. Her existing successful clients include Le Reve Residence Marina, Horizon Tower, Grandeur Residence in Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah Heights Residence, Landmark Hospitality, Hyatt Hotels, Rove Hotels (Emaar Properties), Movenpick Hotel, The Retreat Palm Sofitel, DAMAC, and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment-Business.

Living and working abroad is an amazing way to learn about the world, oneself, and what it means to be a global citizen. However, working overseas also has its everyday struggles, and Jasmin has faced them with resilience and determination. She believes that the key to overcoming these struggles is to have a positive mindset, a passion for one’s work, and a strong support system.

When asked about her plan after working overseas, Jasmin shared her future plans and advocacies. She wants to inspire and help fellow Filipinos to achieve their dreams and pursue their passions. She believes that education is the key to success and wants to create a foundation that will provide educational assistance to underprivileged children in the Philippines. She also wants to promote mental health awareness and help people struggling with mental health issues.

Jasmin’s piece of advice to fellow Filipinos who are struggling abroad is to never give up on their dreams and to always strive for excellence. She emphasized the importance of staying connected with loved ones and finding the right people to trust. She also advised keeping a positive mindset, being open to learning and adapting, and pursuing one’s passions.

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image credit: supplied

Red Santiago

The rising star of Erock in the Philippines

The Philippines has a long and rich tradition of music, with a diverse range of genres and styles reflecting the country’s cultural heritage and influences from around the world. Among the latest additions to this vibrant scene is Red Santiago, a young musician whose emotive and confessional Erock style is gaining popularity and winning over audiences.

Red’s journey to becoming a rising star in the music industry began when he was in Grade 3, but it was not until he joined Stardom Music in 2021 that he received professional guidance and support for his musical career. With the help of his manager, NR Javier, and his mentor, Dan Martel, Red has honed his skills as a songwriter and performer, and is rapidly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the local music scene.

One of the hallmarks of Red’s music is his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. His latest release, “Kalasag,” is a powerful anthem of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity, inspired by the experiences of those who have been bullied, belittled, and told that they are not good enough. The song’s uplifting message has struck a chord with listeners, and has helped to solidify Red’s reputation as a musician who is not afraid to tackle difficult and meaningful topics.

The piece was created by Nina Rica Javier, Red’s manager, and the rap verses were written by Maro Ignacio.

At the heart of Red’s success is his collaboration with NR Javier, who has played an instrumental role in

shaping his sound and style. Together, they have developed a genre that is both unique and accessible, drawing on elements of Western emo music and Japanese style to create something that is truly Filipino. This fusion of different influences has helped to set Red apart from other artists in the local music scene, and has earned him a growing fanbase of devoted supporters.

Looking to the future, Red is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. He is currently working on a new song that he hopes will continue to build on the success of “Kalasag,” and showcase his evolving sound and style. His ultimate goal is to inspire and uplift others through his music, and to use his platform to promote positivity and self-confidence.

For aspiring musicians who are just starting out, Red’s advice is to stay true to themselves and their artistic vision, and to never give up on their dreams. With hard work, dedication, and a willingness to collaborate and learn from others, anything is possible. As Red’s own success demonstrates, the music industry in the Philippines is full of opportunities for those who are passionate about their craft and committed to making their mark.

image credit: supplied

image credit: supplied

image credit: supplied

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