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FEBRUARY 2022 | ISSUE 22

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Growing professionally and personally in UAE’s hospitality industry Bicol’s pride–a banker and a model–making waves in UAE

Filipino in Dubai sets up company to empower women and transcend style and culture

NATASSIA KIM BEJA From surviving to thriving: Filipina in UAE stands strong amid adversities

IMAGE CREDIT: NEIL RODRIGUES

T G F M TABLE OF CONTENTs EDITORIAL BOARD GABRIEL JOHN RIMANDO Publisher RYAN NAMIA Editor-in-Chief ANGELO DUMAG Associate Editor ORLI GAYETA Sales & Marketing Manager-Dubai & Northern Emirates JOEL LARA GENOVE Sales and Marketing Manager-Abu Dhabi ALLAN CARAGAO Senior Graphic Designer THAN DUMAS Multimedia Manager-Dubai

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8 9 10 12 13 15 16 17 19 22 23 24 25 27 28 29 32 35 39 40 41

Choose to see the better side of every situation: PR and marketing expert conquers UAE - Shayne Marie Monasterio Being passionate about being of service to humanity through various advocacies H.E Dr. Edna Joyce Santos Filipino chases dream of becoming top performing barista in UAE - Johnell P. Fodra Filipino in Dubai sets up company to empower women and transcend style and culture - Mark Anthony Palabrica Hitting rock bottom and getting back up - Arfil Tubio Alama

FICE sets no boundaries on expansion plans this 2022 - By JP Cosico Growing professionally and personally in UAE’s hospitality industry - Anna Katrina Galsim Vivero ‘Never give up, never stop trying, and never stop learning’ - Jessel Gaces Coquilla Standing strong amid uncertainty: From housekeeper to general assistant for a leading hospital in Dubai - Jherson Francisco Cajelo

From surviving to thriving: Filipina in UAE stands strong amid adversities Natassia Kim Beja

Bicol’s pride–a banker and a model–making waves in UAE - Gerryl Pedragosa Gaid

Former OFW finds deep passion for photography - Timothy Patrick Cortez Ignacio

Seeing changes as an opportunity, not an adversity - Rose Casia-Robinson

Filipina in UAE equips fellow financially to thrive under uncertainty - Lenn Borja

Reaching high point in overseas professional career - Algie Marie De La Cruz A steward of data protection implementation and data privacy strategy - Emmanuel S. Caliwan, J.D Meet these Filipinas on a mission to tell stories about the Philippine diaspora

FICE sets no boundaries on expansion plans this 2022 - By JP Cosico

Top 7 dishes you should try at Kusina Natin To restaurant in Satwa

T G F M IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

Shayne Marie Monasterio Choose to see the better side of every situation: PR and marketing expert conquers UAE

alking, showing creativity, and entertaining people are Shayne Marie Monasterio’s forte. A graduate of Organizational Communication and Advertising from De La Salle University-Manila, Shayne is described as a charismatic individual, intelligent, creative with grit, and holds a whole lot of confidence. She had on-the-job training in one of the top PR agencies in the Philippines. After graduating, she was offered a job as a PR consultant that

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would handle accounts in FMCG, airline, and pharmaceutical industries. From then, she left the client servicing career and chose to be the client. She moved to retail and had an opportunity to work for Ayala and SM Corporation. In the midst of working at SM Corporation, Shayne received a call from a headhunter in Doha, Qatar, offering her a job in the hospitality industry as a PR and marketing assistant manager. At that time, she had no idea where Qatar was. She was also curious about how it feels like to be working in the Middle East. She took the offer, and that was her first overseas work experience. While she was on her annual vacation in 2019, Shayne was offered to work for Crown Plaza and Staybridge Suites-Abu Dhabi in one of their iconic tourist destinations, Yas Island. Now, she is happy to be part of the pre-opening team of Wyndham Dubai Deira, Days Hotel by Wyndham, and Super 8 by Wyndham, which are part of the Deira Enrichment Project. “PR & Marketing is not for the faint-hearted extremely shy pushover. It requires maximum

charisma, intelligence, creativity, grit, and a whole lot of confidence. And I strongly believe I possess those traits. What I love about my work is that people recognize that fact,” she said. Shayne added that she enjoys the idea of meeting people from different cultures and them letting her experience their traditions. “Working overseas gave me the opportunity to broaden my mind in understanding people and becoming a better person because of the realization that what I have grown to believe is right, is not right all the time to other people,” she added. When asked about her struggles abroad, she cited the time when she was away from her daughter. Now, her daughter is already living with her in Dubai. The other battle was being lost in translation. Working in a diverse society where most people are not native English speakers, she experienced a bit of difficulty in communications. Nevertheless, just like any challenges she faces, a quick adjustment must be done to overcome them.

H.E Dr. Edna Joyce Santos IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

iving abroad is a continuous learning experience as one gets to mingle with people of different nationalities and learn about their culture. H.E Dr. Edna Joyce Santos, a seasoned ophthalmologist who has been living in the UAE for more than two decades now, said that living overseas taught her to be independent and at the same time she learned how to be more tolerant and understanding of people from different races, cultures, and religious backgrounds. Dr. Edna holds several positions of responsibility by virtue of her work as an ophthalmologist. Presently, she is the Ambassador Extraordinaire and Plenipotentiary and Special Advisor to the Holy Royal Crown Council of the Antiquities Imperial Kingdom of the Nation of YMWH, tribe of YHDHYCQN. She is also the head of the department of ophthalmology of Union Medical and Dental Centre in Ras Al Khaimah, the CEO of Sirach Health and Wellness Ministry based in Arizona, and a long list of high positions in various organizations. Dr. Edna, an ophthalmologist for over 30 years now, has filled many leadership roles for various ophthalmology departments in the Philippines and here in UAE. She is also occupied with different projects for socioeconomic development in several companies together with Green City Developers and the Kingdom, whose central advocacy is to build cities of

Being passionate about being of service to humanity through various advocacies

refugees and a safe haven for the destitute and downtrodden in the world. A psychologist and an author of two books, she was also acclaimed as a member of the National Association of Expert Writers and Speakers in the USA. Due to her dedication to work, she received several awards and recognitions, with the most recent of which were Middle East Woman of the Year 2021, Global Inspirational Leader of 2021, and one of the Top 50 Women in Management Globally and has been named as the Leading Physician of the World in 2017. “The mere fact that I am able to practice my profession as an ophthalmologist and be able to inspire and motivate people at the same time through my various speaking engagements as keynote speaker is very fulfilling, indeed. Moreover, I am passionate about being of service to humanity through my various advocacies in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. The smiles of gratitude from the people I have helped have given me happiness and satisfaction knowing that I have given them hope and reason to want to live life to the fullest once again,” Dr. Edna said. The OFW shared that she never found it difficult to be accepted by her colleagues in the UAE. She added that she is lucky to be accepted by several

huge hospitals in the region. Her parents had always taught her to be independent, to be confident of her abilities, and to be a proud Filipino. She always carried with her the values she has been taught and always remembered to follow the four agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz: • Always be impeccable with your words. • Do not take things personally. • Do not make assumptions. • Always do your best. • As an ophthalmologist, she will continue to be of service to the people who need her the most. Once a doctor, always a doctor, she said. “It is in my heart and will be my legacy. I will try to help the Kingdom build 50 Cites of Refuge and Safehaven all around the world and help towards the socio-economic development of our country and other nations as well,” she further added. “The biggest lesson I have learned during my stay abroad is that the only person who can help you is yourself. You can never depend on other people as they are also undergoing difficulties of their own. You have to help yourself. And you should never forget the reason why you went abroad in the first place,” she concluded.

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T G F M Johnell P. Fodra

Filipino chases dream of becoming top performing barista in UAE

ohnell P. Fodra is an overseas Filipino worker based in Al Ain. Like many Filipino workers abroad, his ultimate dream is to provide his family with a better future. Ultimately, his vision is to become a top-performing barista in the UAE.

Doing what he loves to do, as a senior barista, he prepares coffee, does the calibration, checks the quality of coffee they are serving, and provides top-notch customer service while assuring their clients are satisfied with their products and service.

and other colleagues is ‘undeniably remarkable’.

Before embarking on an overseas journey, he started working as a maintenance and technician in a company in the Philippines. To lead a healthy life and expand his network, he joined basketball leagues in their area.

On the sidelines, he joins latte art competitions in the country. The support he gets from his boss

He recently won the Refill Roastery Al Ain Latte Art Throwdown title, wherein he received an amount of AED5,000 in cash.

When he arrived in the UAE in 2015, he worked as a waiter. His exposure to the F&B industry enhanced his communication skills, allowing him to express himself efficiently and effectively when dealing with their customers. When Johnell was asked about a time when he struggled abroad, he said it was during the Covid-19 pandemic in the country. Because of the pandemic, which has affected the global operations, the company he previously worked in shut down. To make ends meet while abroad and to continue supporting his family members back home financially, he had to seek another job. Johnell finally found a better career. Presently, he is working as a senior barista at the Journeys Cafe, a go-to coffee shop in the city for those seeking quality coffee.

IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

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“They let me join in any competitions, giving their 100 percent support. Through my job, I was able to give satisfaction to my customers as I serve them my sweet coffee,” Johnell said.

When asked about his long-term plans, he said he would continue his passion as a barista. Once he has enough money, he plans to build his coffee shop in the Philippines. “I will advise to my fellow compatriots is to save money. Buy only all the essentials. Next, don’t give up. Always believe in yourself and be grateful for all the blessings. Moreover, look for people who will motivate you and be happy when you succeed. Lastly, don’t work for money; work for your passion,” he said.

TMark G F M IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

Anthony Palabrica

Filipino in Dubai sets up company to empower women and transcend style and culture

o empower the community of women in the Philippines is Mark Anthony Palabrica’s top priority. As he becomes his boss, the owner of Aton Ini Iloilo, his vision is to have his brand be renowned that transcends style and culture through their ecofriendly products.

casually calls his ‘queens’.

Mark Anthony is committed to promoting sustainable products through women’s empowerment. Their products are carefully sourced and entirely handmade by a local community of weavers that the company has supported.

Starting an overseas life

As the founder of the Aton Ini Iloilo, he regularly travels for five hours to visit his weavers in the mountains. “I usually sit and eat with them while discussing their concerns on how to make money for their living expenses,” he said. After hearing their sentiments, he wanted to help them, so he promised to do his best to support them. Mark Anthony could not imagine that their products would be introduced internationally, specifically here in the UAE, adding that he was overwhelmed by how the Filipino community and other nationalities appreciate the hard work of the people in the mountains. With this initiative, he can sustain the everyday needs of the family of the women he supports, that he

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“I did not imagine working in this field, so this experience is life-changing. When you help someone, your heart is filled with love. When I make other people happy, I become truly happy,” he said.

It was 2009 when Mark Anthony decided to work overseas. He said that the main reason he chose to work in Dubai was to establish himself and help his family have a better future. For six months, he worked as a server at a Belgian restaurant in JBR. Jumping to another industry, in 2010, he worked in the HR department of Emirates Group Transguard. He also worked as a real estate broker for a Russian company. In 2011, he was given a break as an assistant model booker in a modeling company. This opened a new opportunity for him to work in FLC Models as a model booker. From there, he carved his career as a model booker and a producer for leading talent agencies in the emirate, allowing him to work with high-end brands and both Filipino and international designers. “Working overseas gave me an opportunity to meet new people, build relationships and learn about different culturesand beliefs,” he added. When asked about her long-term plans, he said

it would be to establish his sustainable boutique in the country where he can display all the products made by his ‘queens’, including bags, kitchenware, and furniture. “In life, we face a lot of struggles that tested our faith and trust. When the pandemic started, I felt depressed because there were plans that were cancelled; however, during that time, I also met my queens that made me realize that you can be happy living life and helping people,” Mark Anthony said. His advice to his fellow Filipinos abroad is always to include God in their lives, trust the process, and enjoy life.

IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

Arfil Tubio Alama Hitting rock bottom and getting back up

itting rock bottom is scary. You realize that you are going down and never getting up again. Arfil Tubio Alama felt this when he arrived in the UAE in 2019. He said that life abroad isn’t easy, especially when he struggled to look for a job. He came on the month when preparation for Ramadan was at its peak, so securing one was slim. He recalled going to areas like Mussaffa just to send his CVs, and when he didn’t know where the bus station was, he had to walk for two hours under the heat of the Arabian sun. When his visit visa was about to expire, he had to come up with another plan to have his visa renewed and pay for his exit expenses to Oman. “I could not always rely on my sister that time because she was burdened with my HAAD [Health Authority of Abu Dhabi] exam expenses, living expenses in the emirate, as well as for our family maintenance,” he said. He became desperate, and the only hope he was clinging to was God. He prayed and knelt and begged for assistance. He took matters into his own hands. Arfil did part-time jobs to cope; he also did cleaning jobs, walked pets, and sold and delivered ready-to-wear clothes and delicacies that his sister was vending. He thought it would lighten the load with the odd jobs he was doing. Unfortunately, the siblings’ struggles didn’t end there. He received

a mail that all HAAD exams were not facilitated temporarily in all emirates and that venues outside the emirate were the only facilities available for the said exam. “It really hit me hard that I reached the point of rock bottom. I wanted just to give up and go home,” he said. Fuelled by responsibilities, fortunately, he landed a pharmacy merchandiser job in the country. There, he was studying and working at the same time. While flourishing himself, the ban was lifted, and he was able to take the exams and pass on one try. “I am really fortunate to have my sister first of all and God for he didn’t leave me despite all the struggles I’ve been through,” he said. Today, Arfil is now working as a chief pharmacist in Yas Pharmacy, a company under ASCO Holdings. His job responsibilities include providing medication counseling to patients, providing them with ease on the usage of their medications, especially on drug interactions and adverse effects. He also provides patients with in-depth knowledge of their insurance policies and limitations. “I love doing my job because I am able to help people understand the concept of medicines and the proper way to use them. People tend to use medicines just as like taking a piece of candy,” he said.

He also recalled a regular patient who was regularly taking defecating tablets. He noticed that the patient had been taking them for some months, and his constipation persisted. So, he advised him to check it with a specialist better because there may be an underlying sickness that needed to be identified. Days later, his patient thanked him because the result showed he had stage 2 colon cancer after he did the check-up. The doctor told the patient that it was good that he came to him immediately as it would have been worst if he didn’t see him in time. “He thanked me profusely and said I saved his life,” he said. With his simple evaluation, Arfil realized how vital his role was and inspired him to do well in his profession. After working in the country, he plans to migrate to Australia with the hope of working there. “My advice to my fellow Filipinos who are struggling abroad, may it be on love, finances, employment, or even finding the right people to trust, is to always put God at the centre of everything they do. “Always ask for a sign. He listens. He answers. Also, trust yourself more and never give up; it’s not always going to be a rainy day,” he added.

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TAnna G F M IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

Katrina Galsim Vivero Growing professionally and personally in UAE’s hospitality industry

or Anna Katrina Galsim Vivero, working in the hospitality industry in the UAE for nearly a decade now has allowed her to grow professionally and personally. Her expertise in the field includes sales and marketing, liaising with clients, and providing them with a variety of hotel accommodations. Her journey in her chosen field began when she arrived in the UAE nine years ago and worked as a receptionist for Ivory Hotel Apartment in Abu Dhabi. After gaining experience and skills, she was able to secure a job with Gromaxx Hotels Management, which has a long-term partnership with the largest international hotel chain Wyndham. She started working as a cluster assistant to the sales manager (corporate) in the same hotel. Due to her significant contributions to the organization, she was consistently promoted until she became the organization’s cluster assistant to sales director. She provides insight into their marketing goals and room revenue. “I enjoy working with the management team to come up with new ways to boost income and meet our sales goals,” she said. Facing numerous challenges When she arrived in the UAE, she realized that an OFW life is not easy. First, she struggled to look for a suitable job. Due t cultural differences, it was difficult for her to adjust at first. She took it as a personal challenge to learn

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about the culture of the people in the UAE. Anna adjusted by exerting effort to interact with nonFilipinos so that she could put herself into their shoes and better understand them.

She also recalled leaving the Philippines due to financial reasons. She realized that too many Filipinos were struggling to secure a job, so she took matters into her own hands and tried her luck in the UAE. “I think that was one of the best decisions that I’ve made so far,” she said. She chose Abu Dhabi because of its expanding economy. Although she has been staying in the capital for nearly a decade now, she intends to stay longer as she is already attached to the country. “I want to spend the rest of my life here, not just for me, but also for my family, especially my children,” she said. “To all my kababayans in the UAE, I would like to encourage you to have strength and believe in yourself. There are a lot of Filipinos who have been successful already in this country. You just need to exert an effort to prove your worth,” Anna added.

Jessel Gaces Coquilla ‘Never give up, never stop trying, and never stop learning’

atience is believing that everything comes to you at the right moment. This is what Jessel Gaces Coquilla, an overseas Filipino worker in Abu Dhabi for nearly a decade now, believed in. Before considering Abu Dhabi as her second home, Jessel worked in the government office in their province after acquiring a Civil Service Eligibility. She then moved to Manila and worked as an accounting staff for a distribution company. For financial reasons, she decided to work overseas for the very first time, at that time, she chose Taiwan and worked as a QC at an electronic company. After her employment contract ended, she proceeded to work in the UAE and continued her overseas journey. A graduate of Bachelor of Science in Commerce Major in Management Accounting at a university in Cebu, she arrived in the capital in 2013 in the hopes of securing more career opportunities and reasonable compensation. Fast forward, she got acquainted with the work culture learned, acquired more knowledge in the field of accounting, and excelled in her chosen industry. Today, Jessel works as an accounts assistant in a retail company in the capital. “I really enjoy working with my colleagues. It’s a very light-hearted atmosphere that encouraged

IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

me to go to work every day,” she said. She handles supplier invoices and payment processing reliably in her work. These tasks allowed her to keep moving forward and prove to the management that nothing could stop her from completing all the tasks on time.

Although she is already settled abroad, she still feels the pang of homesickness.

When asked why she chose Abu Dhabi over other emirates, she said it is generally safe to stay in the city. She added that cameras monitor roads around the clock, and local authorities quickly respond to accidents and emergencies.

“It’s hard to cope if our family is not with us. Bawal magkasakit dahil walang mag aalaga satin… kailangan mag ingat at huwag pabayaan ang sarili. These days the social media can be a great help to keep in touch with our family. The ease of communication via chat or video calls make loneliness bearable since we can see our loved ones & not just rely on text messages or pictures,” she added.

“Thus, residents feel safe & secure! Most of all, andito ang trabaho ko and I’m able to enjoy bonding with friends, especially on holidays,” she said.

Jessel added that her mother will always be her biggest inspiration as having her as a mentor helped her determine the importance of balancing work and personal life. Since the accounts assistant has a passion for the medical field, she enrolled herself in a caregiving class in the Filipino Institute. She would like to assume that this will pave the way for her to work in her dream country in the future. “Being alone in a foreign land, there will always be people who will take advantage of your naivety. Learn to trust the right people. Don’t trust too soon. Hardships & failures are expected but have a concrete plan, never give up, never stop dreaming, never stop believing, never stop trying and most of all never stop learning,” the 40-year-old OFW said.

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IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

Jherson Francisco Cajelo Standing strong amid uncertainty: From housekeeper to general assistant for a leading hospital in Dubai

ife is harsh, so you should be firm; otherwise, it will crush you. This is what Jherson Francisco Cajelo, a Dubai-based general assistant for one of the leading hospitals in the country. It took quite a lot of courage to depart from his family and friends in the Philippines, as he would miss the homey smell, the predictable days, and familiar faces. However, nine years ago, Jherson took a leap of faith and ventured into an OFW journey wherein he experienced a new way of living. He fell in love, embraced new traditions, made new friends, and soon called UAE home. To secure a job overseas, he worked as a housekeeper. However, he realized that his salary wasn’t sufficient to support him and his family in the Philippines, so he submitted his CV to a local hospital. This is where his journey started until he became one of the general assistants in the conglomerate. In the hospital, he looks after his patients, assists them with their daily activities, while providing support to nurses and doctors’ staff. “Working abroad gives you the chance to learn new things, like a new way to approach a problem or cultivate existing skills, such as expanding your creativity within this new environment,” Jherson, who used to work as a human resource manager in the Philippines, said.

“The most satisfying thing in this field is to take care of the wellbeing of the patients,” he further added.

Living and working abroad for nearly a decade now, Jherson said he learned the essence of saving up. He added that he noticed some expatriates with little savings or still debtridden and finding themselves in difficult situations. “I promised myself to save up while enjoying my time here abroad so that I can have the business that I want and build in my hometown and to have a wonderful family,” he said. Joining pageants The 35-year-old general assistant does not only excel in his chosen career. He is also acing the male pageantry in the UAE. Currently, Jherson has three titles already that he is proud of. “Winning or losing the competition is a great experience to me,” the family’s breadwinner said. “Being successful means having the discipline to do what needs to be done, not just when you feel like it, but because you know that doing these things will help get you one step closer to achieving your goals,” he further added.

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T G F M NATASSIA KIM BEJA Photographer: Neil Rodrigues Email: www.photooneil.com Insta: photooneil

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From surviving to thriving: Filipina in UAE stands strong amid adversities

ne of the few words that best describe Natassia Kim Beja is ‘risk-taker’ who always wants to carpe diem or seize the day. She taught herself to take risks and boldly go while understanding that life can be a bumpy road, but at least it is leading her somewhere. In 2015, she started her overseas journey in Abu Dhabi as a travel consultant. Since then, she has been striving hard to fulfill her dreams and goals in life. In that particular work, she loved the travel industry, especially when she was able to help her fellow Filipinos travel successfully from the Philippines to the UAE and fulfilling their travel dreams. As someone who loves challenges, she embraced a new culture and work environment—she thought it was very different from what she witnessed in the Philippines. So, she made some adjustments in coping with the pressure both at work and personally. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, it made a complete 360 degrees change as she worked in the travel industry. Natassia had to change the course of her career and did a lot of freelance jobs, including working as a reservation

manager and storekeeper, just to survive during the lockdown for more than six months. “I had to work something in order to meet my daily living expenses. Surviving that time was my main goal,” she recalled. Since the pandemic has affected almost all sectors across the globe, the travel restrictions have caused millions of redundancies. “The situation for the past two years was very difficult yet I am very thankful to God that he was able to guide me to the path where I was able to survive and put food on the table,” she said. Natassia has literally sent hundreds of CVs to various organizations in the capital in the hopes of securing a nice-paying job until she was called for an interview by a travel agency. At first, she was hesitant due to the current situation; however, she saw the light at the end of the tunnel when the UAE was gradually lifting travel restrictions.

the UAE. Now only 30 years old, Natassia is fully committed to her newly established travel agency named Byahero Travel and Tourism. “I chose to fight and stand on achieving my goals. I lost my job and worked hard on achieving what I have right now,” she added. The employee-turned-entrepreneur said she wanted to grow her company and thrive it to success. “In living abroad, the number one person you can trust is yourself. Love and care for yourself first. Since working abroad you can only depend on yourself. Other people even your family and friends have also other battles to fight for. Never doubt your capabilities. Aim for your happiness and success but never forget those people who were there during your ups and downs. Especially, To God for always making you strong. As during my very lows, prayers is one of the strongest armor of my success,” she concluded.

With perseverance coupled with a lot of patience, she was able to save up. This also paved the way for opening her dream travel agency in

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Gerryl Pedragosa Gaid Bicol’s pride–a banker and a model–making waves in UAE

erryl Pedragosa Gaid was only 20 years old when she decided to go directly to Dubai to be an overseas Filipino worker (OFW). A fresh graduate, she started working as a marketing officer in a real estate company in Business Bay. Although it was not in line with what she had studied, she pursued it because, like many OFWs, she was afraid not to get any good job offer back then other than what’s served on the table. She may consider herself a risk-taker, but working overseas is a whole different arena— the competition is stiff. Admittedly, during that time, she didn’t have any job experiences that she could share with her employer except for her scholastic achievements. The real estate company trusted her potential. She was trained and exposed to people from myriad cultures and different backgrounds. While working full-time, she made herself productive by studying and reviewing for the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) examination, a licensure examination for management accountants issued by the US and is considered as one of the most demanding professional accounting exams. At 21, Gerryl passed the examination and sought another job. She took the leap of faith and applied for Commercial Bank International (CBI), and another company trusted her where she became the youngest employee of the bank. Today, Gerryl is working under financial operations management with the same bank where she deals with money and wire transfers, both local and international transactions. A banker and a model The 21-year-old Filipina does not only excel in her work. She is also conquering the fashion industry in Dubai. When she was only 18, she joined beauty pageants and clinched notable titles. There, she developed an interest in

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pageantries and the glitz and glamour of the fashion industry. However, as much as she wanted to continue the pageantry life, she went abroad to help her family and seek greener pastures. Her love for the industry rekindled when she joined the Miss Filipino Institute while studying an introductory make-up course to further her skills.

exposure to platforms like Amazon.ae and Noon. Additionally, she was also tapped by The Gulf Bride- Middle East, Runway Dubai, Top Models Dubai, and many more.

In 2020, when she was finally enjoying her new life in Dubai, her mother suffered from a brain stroke. So, she went home immediately to look after her. However, she got stuck in the Philippines for about eight months due to the travel restrictions imposed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. After staying in the Philippines for almost a year, her mother’s situation went well, and she could finally leave without regrets.

A banker and a model with a heart

When she returned to Dubai, her photo received positive feedback, and she started receiving modeling offers. Initially, it was just collaboration shoots, but she thought it was still for exposure and additional activity for her portfolio. Gerryl is a banker during the weekdays and a model during weekends or after her 9am to 5pm job.

In Dubai, especially during the Ramadan period, she joins non-profit organizations’ activities to distribute food during iftar, making her fellow Filipinos housed at the consulate happy through programs and conducting medical missions in areas for laborers.

While she was in the process of embracing her newfound life in modeling, she joined a modeling competition wherein she poured her heart. Unfortunately, she lost and didn’t make it to the cut, which affected her self-esteem. “As a believer, I’ve always been taught that for every “No”, there will always be a better “Yes”,” she said. After losing the competition, she received modeling opportunities she never thought would come. She started receiving e-commercial modeling shoot offers that have given her

Back in her hometown in Albay, she proactively supported a group of kids in far-flung areas through feed programs, recreational activities, and gift-giving programs. She is also a part of a group that goes to hospitals, clinics, and even jails to give some hope to the vulnerable through singing and praying.

“I see myself as a woman who will always choose to help the needy. Volunteering is where I see myself in the end. I want my life to be filled with purpose. Through helping and touching other people’s lives, I truly feel alive and fulfilled,” she said. “There will be times in our life that we will give our heart, soul, and mind into something but failures or disappointments are meeting it. Do not let that get into you and stop you from chasing your dreams. Instead, let that fuel you in gear towards becoming the best version of yourself,” the Bicolana pride further added. IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

Timothy Patrick Cortez Ignacio Former OFW finds deep passion for photography

imothy Patrick Cortez Ignacio is currently working as a freelance photographer and managing his small ML express outlet in the Philippines. Before settling in the Philippines, the 39-yearold Filipino worked in the Middle East for a short period. His very first job overseas was as executive secretary for a now-defunct pediatric association in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2004. After office hours, he would roam around the city centre with his parents to take photos using his first Kodak Z700. He realized that his passion for photography would prosper when he won first prize at a daily photography contest conducted by a daily newspaper. He won $100, and that got him more into photography. As Saudi Arabia imposed multiple restrictions, especially in photography, he decided to quit his day job and return to the Philippines. It was then that Fine Image Studio came about. From then on, spearheading the studio, he faced constant struggles that almost pushed him over the edge–quitting the game. In 2009, he thought of resuming his OFW journey in the same city. This time, he got nicepaying photography projects under an agency. “Bu my heart and min were in the Philippines.

I could not stop thinking about the endless opportunities in our beloved country. So, again, after a year or so, I went back home,” Timothy said. In the Philippines, he found love in vlogging. He spends time on album layouting and video and photo editing at night. Sometime in 2017, he started a small family business that catered grill street food. It thrived well, but later, he found it expensive due to the tax imposed and restrictions. His heart was aching to go back to photography, so he did again.

“I specifically enjoy the challenges to excel in a field with a lot of competitions. The challenge to capture every memorable moment in a photograph and be able to impart the message to the viewer,” he said when asked about what he enjoys about clicking images. When shooting his subjects, he doesn’t only use his camera. He also uses his heart. “I pour out all the emotions stacked up inside into every photograph I shoot. I try to talk to my clients and the viewers through every photograph I create,” he said. “The most satisfying aspect is when the viewers appreciate your work and appreciate the beauty of things through every photograph,” he added. Timothy said that his influences are Joey Lawrence, a Canadian photographer, Karl Roberts, Brooke Shaden, Kevin Wang, Jophel Ybiosa, and the rest of Team Juan Makasining, Edwin Loyola, Maricris Carlos, Victor Sison, Ador Pamintuan. “My life is a constant struggle, and there are times when I feel like I am at the end of my limit. But as I trust our Lord Almighty, I don’t allow myself to get tired. I keep on pushing and striving hard, if not harder. And I believe this is the secret of all the successful people in any field… not to give up,” he said.

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Rose Casia-Robinson Seeing changes as an opportunity, not an adversity

ompletely embracing change implies that a person doesn’t see it as adversity but as an opportunity to improve oneself or try new things. This is what Rose Casia-Robinson believes in. She said she gets bored when things are stagnant, stressing that she always wants a challenge and excitement. Rose started her overseas career in 2014 when a big consultancy firm in Dubai hired her all the way from the Philippines to be one of their architects. It was a blessing that challenged her life and an opportunity she can’t just brush off. However, her parents were too keen for her to work abroad because they thought he was too young for it. She recalled her mother crying when the plane ticket was sent to her, a oneway ticket. A licensed architect and an outstanding Bicol University graduate, in 2017, she stayed in Spain and the UK to complete her master’s degree at IE School of Architecture and Design. It was 2019 when a big firm in Dubai branched out in London and moved her to the new office. Currently, Rose is working as a BIM specialist for Cadent, one of the biggest companies in the UK, while managing her company–Casia Robinson, an interior, design, and architecture company. “With Cadent, I am very happy how great my bosses and colleagues are. They are very

appreciative, which is very important, a simple thank you from them or appreciation makes my day. I always tell my husband how much of a blessing Cadent is to me. I draw for them, I build the model of buildings and add the piping to the structure,” she said. She enjoys liaising with clients and managing the entire practice with her newly founded company. It all started with her doing all the drawings in her spare time or during weekends until it has grown to eight-people practice. She used to do all by herself and now they have the admin officer who works from accounts to HR, a team leader that manages other designers and architects, and an engineer who designs MEP in all their projects. “Casia Robinson makes me feel fulfilled because this company provides employment to these amazing people who are very hardworking and compassionate,” she said. As the company director, she doesn’t take any salary from the firm’s profit. Everything it makes is just for the employees to have and keep the business going. “I enjoy working in the UK because the process they have in our field is a lot easier and a lot smoother. It also makes me happy knowing that the people in the UK entrust me with their projects. It is flattering and that’s why I really do my best to ensure that the design or drawings we produce are impressive and of good quality,” Rose further added.

When asked about her plans, she said she would like to be Cadent’s first BIM manager to set BIm standards and protocols. For Casia Robinson, she is already setting up an office in Albay, looking forward to building a three-level mixed-use building somewhere in the Bicol or NCR areas. “My advice to other kabayans abroad- do not sell yourself low. Know your worth before deciding which path you would take. Remember that it always seems impossible until it’s done. Always believe in yourself, and if you think you deserve better, well then, you do deserve better. Don’t allow people to make you feel lesser than what you really are,” she said. Rose also shared how she met her other half on Tinder. She joined the popular dating app in the hopes of moving on from her past relationship until she matched with a ‘cute man’ that she is spending her life with today. “Yes, love happens in the most unexpected wayjust always give yourself a chance and open to all the possibilities,” she said. “With the young people who are struggling because of whatever family problems you have, please don’t let that hold you back. We cannot choose the situation we are born in, that doesn’t define us, but your goals in life do, so make sure you set your goals right… and you go get it,” she added.

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T G F M Lenn Borja

Filipina in UAE equips fellow financially to thrive under uncertainty

inancial literacy equips us with the knowledge and skills we need to manage money effectively. For quite some time now, Lenn Borja advocates financial literacy among Filipino families in the UAE through her work as a financial advisor. She prepares them to be financially equipped to thrive under uncertainty. Before helping her fellow Filipinos in the country with financial concerns, Lenn has gone through ups and downs, much like other expatriates. When she arrived in the UAE seven years ago, she traveled with baggage filled with hope—hope to succeed in her chosen career. A mechanical engineering graduate, inexperienced and 20 years old at that time, the Filipina whose visa at that time was about to expire, accepted a cashiering job in Ajman. Since it was not her dream job, she resigned to do her internship in an engineering consultancy firm. Lenn continued dreaming and exploring all the employment opportunities in the country until she applied to a flooring company as a marketing executive. In just three months, she was promoted to marketing manager while consistently bringing business to the company until her supervisors recognized her work and their rivals. When she joined another flooring company as a business development manager, she

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IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

continued closing big projects in Abu Dhabi. As the company met with financial problems that resulted in bankruptcy, Lenn turned to online selling, a skill she learned at a young age.

As she sold things online, the vice president of Orient Insurance found her and offered her a job. It took a year for her to say yes because she was accumulating ‘good’ amount of money in online selling. After a year, she was once again invited to join the company, this time, she gave them a nod. “I am enjoying the work since speaking with people is my forte,” she said. Her love for work paved the way for her to earn the top advisor title. Lenn is also considered one of the youngest successful financial advisors in the UAE at 28. When asked about her plans in life, she said one of her goals is to be the boss of her own. She also aspires to accumulate more assets in the Philippines and help more Filipinos to be financially literate. “My advice to my fellow Filipinos abroad is always to be motivated. Don’t ever be shaken by struggles; instead, face them confidently and pray. I believe that the secret to success is failure because you learn and become stronger from failure,” she concluded.

Algie Marie De La Cruz Reaching high point in overseas professional career

ince high school, Algie Marie De La Cruz knew that she would not be staying in the Philippines to work or even live for a long time. She thought there was gravity that pulled a strong desire to work abroad and live elsewhere. Although she loves her country, she had to follow her passions and goals. While getting a college degree, she had an internship in Malaysia for six months that she considered her first job. After her graduation and coming from her training overseas, she worked directly. “I didn’t want to rely on my single parent for all my needs. I wanted to spoil and get her whatever she wanted and needed the soonest I can,” she said. However, this wasn’t the case. The reality at that time was that she was living paycheck to paycheck. She relied on the experience that she would get from the jobs rather than working and saving. Her mother would still support her out with some of her expenses to survive. Algie recalled running out of budget and buying the cheapest meal at a convenience store or buying from street food vendors. “My work experiences in the Philippines, both good and bad, have shaped me into the person I am, and I was able to prepare myself towards my goal,” the 29-year-old Filipina said. Taking the leap

Algie found another career opportunity abroad when she was on a night shift and worked as a call centre representative. She saw an ad on Facebook; she thought it was another scam, but it wasn’t. When she passed the interview, she saw herself bound for the Middle East in just a span of one month. Her work in the Middle Eastern country revolved around the hotel industry. She started working in the reservations, getting a monthly salary of QR1,650 or approximately P23,000. Although she enjoyed the job, she didn’t see herself staying in the field her whole life. “It hurt so much when I found out from other expats that cleaners even earn more than us. No shame but it is what it is, I guess. There were multiple times that I couldn’t even ride a QR 10 taxi cab from our west bay hotel accommodation to the city center, and I would prefer to walk or take our accommodation bus and walk from my work,” she recalled. Algie tried her best to work in the sales industry, and it took her two years to land a position in the field. “I can say that I have finally found the field that I like, which was in sales, marketing and events,” she added. She excelled more when she landed a job in events management for a five-star hotel in West Bay, Qatar. While working in Qatar, she regularly partakes in several non-profit groups, making a significant

impact on the betterment of the country, its nature, and its society. Pandemic effect During the Covid-19 pandemic, she was terminated twice from work. Each wave of the pandemic was her tsunami. She struggled to keep herself afloat for a year and could not send money back home regularly. “It was hard to finally tell my mom that I was laid off because I didn’t want to be a disappointment to her. I told her a few months after when I was about to get one more steady part-time job for a couple of months,” Algie said. In total, she had to juggle six part-time jobs to survive. Two years ago, she was diagnosed with chronic Crohn’s disease; she didn’t find any support group, so she started a small Crohn’s Warrior Group online to support those suffering from the same condition. Today, she works as a sales and marketing and property management administration assistant for a GCC-wide real estate company. Her responsibilities were vast–from addressing tenants’ concerns, collecting rent, to dealing with maintenance, and any inquiry throughout their stay. Their five-star properties and services cater to the niche VVIP clients who live or visit the country. “Be open to changes, new experiences, and work. It goes a long way, and as much as you are open to things like trying out new food, going out, and doing something new. It broadens your horizon to your future,” she concluded.

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T G F M IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

Emmanuel S. Caliwan, J.D A steward of data protection implementation and data privacy strategy

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continued closing big projects in Abu Dhabi. As the company met with financial problems that resulted in bankruptcy, Lenn turned to online selling, a skill she learned at a young age. As she sold things online, the vice president of Orient Insurance found her and offered her a job. It took a year for her to say yes because she was accumulating ‘good’ amount of money in online selling. After a year, she was once again invited to join the company, this time, she gave them a nod.

“I am enjoying the work since speaking with people is my forte,” she said. Her love for work paved the way for her to earn the top advisor title. Lenn is also considered one of the youngest successful financial advisors in the UAE at 28. When asked about her plans in life, she said one of her goals is to be the boss of her own. She also aspires to accumulate more assets in the Philippines and help more Filipinos to be financially literate. “My advice to my fellow Filipinos abroad is always to be motivated. Don’t ever be shaken by struggles; instead, face them confidently and pray. I believe that the secret to success is failure because you learn and become stronger from failure,” she concluded. IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

IMAGE CREDIT: SUPPLIED

Meet these Filipinas on a mission to tell stories about the Philippine diaspora T

he multi-award-winning all-Filipina artistic company Tita Collective will mark 2022 as their biggest year yet starting with their first LIVE show since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. This April 9th – 10th, Tita Collective will feature their new work KWENTO at the 2022 Forward March Festival. KWENTO is a fun and exciting new show created by the Tita Collective that explores and celebrates Philippine folklore. Based on the Tausug folktale, Ararabuntu In The Animal World, the show will follow the journey of Ara, a young Filipina, who is trying to understand her connection to her heritage. Unable to find an answer at home, she enters the Animal World The fourth annual edition of the Forward March

Festival will take place in-person at Earlscourt Park (1200 Lansdowne Avenue). The theme this year is Stand in the Place Where You Live and will premiere five new outdoor, in-person, site-specific pieces created by emerging artist companies and commissioned by Theatre Direct including KWENTO by Tita Collective. The Forward March Festival is created by Theatre Direct Canada, one of the country’s leading theatres for young audiences whose awardwinning productions have reached audiences in schools and theatres across Canada and the world. KWENTO is a -Canadian folktale that celebrates the past and makes room for the future. Through Kwento, Tita Collective brings to life Philippine folklore that is unknown to the community, especially -Canadian youth. It respectfully weaves together Philippine folk music, dance,

and craftsmanship. They aim to further develop Kwento as a musical theatre piece and integrate improvisation to keep the magic alive. “In 2022, we will finally get to show a few things that we had been cooking up: we’re going on tour, we’re developing a new show, we’ve been writing and creating non-stop. We have grown up as artists and as a collective, since people last saw us, so we’re so excited to show everyone all the things we have been dreaming up for over two years,” says Alia Rasul. They have won several awards, including the 2019 Steamwhistle Producers’ Pick at the Toronto Sketch Comedy Festival, Best Newcomer at the Montreal Sketch Comedy Festival, the Second City Outstanding New Comedy Award and Patrons’ Pick at the 2019 Toronto Fringe Festival.

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FICE sets no boundaries on expansion plans this 2022 By JP Cosico

The Filipino Institute Corporate Education (FICE), which provides training for company members of various business sectors in the UAE, is all set to dominate and provide superlative training solutions this year. The organization will go full-scale in giving a variety of courses to companies who wish to have their manpower trained and be more qualified and efficient at work through the comprehensive six-month training. After undergoing the training, all members will receive an international diploma which can be attested by the Knolwedge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs-UAE (MOFA) and used for migration purposes.

It also promotes a friendly training scheme that can showcase the abilities of each employee in every company. Highly trained teachers from the Filipino Institute are sent to corporate training.The period of the training can also be shortened depending on how a company would like to finish and complete the traning for each employee. [6:48 pm, 12/03/2022] Ryan: According to Mr. Gabriel John Rimando, corporate training enables a learning culture and better work relationship among colleagues. “They fee motivated and encouraged which results in increased productivity. In this way, employees feel a sense of belongingness to the organization,” he said.

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T G F M Top 7 dishes you should try at Kusina Natin To

restaurant

in Satwa 40

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Filipino dishes have distinctive colors, aromas, and flavors that result in a full sensory experience with each bite. Just recently, The Global Filipino Magazine has tried some of the Filipino dishes offered at the Kusina Natin ‘To restaurant in Satwa which is popular for offering unique and authentic Pinoy flavors that have already evolved through the decades. But theirs, it was as if their great grandmothers have handed over them the secret recipes of popular Filipino food. When we dined in at the Kusina Natin ‘To, below are our top picks.

Bangus a la Pobre

Chicken Kawali Binalot

They say that Bangus a la Pobre dishes are easy to make yet so flavorful. Kusina Natin ‘To’s version is obviously cooked delicately. Served on a sisig plate, the milkfish was fried to golden perfection and topped with a tangy and savory sauce and minced spring onions. One thing is for sure, this viand is not for pobre (pobre in Spanish means poor) in taste as it will rule the dining table. Price: AED25

How unique is it to unwrap a banana leaf and find out that your food is inside the package? Kusina Natin ‘To call this binalot and it means wrapped in Filipino. Years ago, lunches were packed in banana leaves before they were packed in styrofoams. These quintessential Filipino lunch packs are revived in the restaurant, allowing its customers to choose from binalot Bicol Express, Chicken Adobo, Chicken Inasal, Beef Sisig, Chicken Sisig, Beef Tapa, Daing Na Bangus, to Nilasing na Hipon.

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Price: AED30 Rate:

Seaopoegg (Sipo Egg)

Balbacua

Beef Pares

This Pampanga dish has a rich sauce and is composed of minced chicken meat, green peas, carrots, and topped with eggs. You can tell the richness of the butter once we had a taste of it. We found the delicious medley and tender-crisp mixed vegetables satisfying. This is also a great option for vegetarians!

The Balbacua served at Kusina Natin ‘To is exceptional. This Filipino stew has a mix of spices and seasonings that perfectly blend with the tenderness of the beef. We can taste and fee the heritage Filipino flavors. The serving size is also very generous for a price of only AED30.

Beef Pares at the Kusina Natin ‘To is enticing and captivating that you’ll ask more after tasting it. The cubed beef brisket was so tender. The onion was also softened which makes the viand sweeter. In the Philippines, the combination of tender beef Asado, garlic fried rice, and hot broth is already considered comfort food.

Price: AED25

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Sizzling Bopis

Mixed Seafood in Cajun Sauce Kusina Natin ‘To’s Mixed Seafood in Cajun Sauce has an amazing assortment of our favorite seafood and corn tossed in a flavorful and aromatic cajun sauce. It has a buttery and garlicky taste with a hint of tanginess. For us, it’s the perfect package served for family and friends. The price differs according to the following choices: AED49 for 2 persons, AED99 for 4 persons and AED149 for 8 persons. Rate:

Served on an excruciating sizzling plate, the Sizzling Sisig is also a to-die-for dish at Kusina Natin ‘To. Although it was served with a minimal sauce, its spice, unique flavor, and soft texture stood out. It’s perfect for the main meal with steamed rice. Price: AED30 Rate:

The restaurant offers a wide range of dish categories, from vegetable, breakfast, sizzling, chicken, beef, seafood, bilao special, binalot special, kusina meals, and dessert. It’s conveniently located in Shop 4, Oasis Building, Al Badaab St., Satwa, Dubai. For inquiries, call them at 04 547 6111.

The Global Filipino Magazine | Issue 22 | February 2022