Illustrado Magazine – Filipino Abroad

Tag: filipino diaspora

The Annie B. Chronicles: “Shopping Pest”

“Shopping Pest”

The Annie B. (Batobalani) Chronicles

The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai.

My golly! My regular visits to Fitness First had to take a back sip because of too much work since most of my officemates are on vacation. So eto, my SIZE keeps on fluctuating (like the dollar-peso exchange rate) so it means I have to do something that will make me feel GOOD. Hmmmm….

Ano pa nga ba ang pwedeng gawin dito sa Dubai kapag mas mataas pa sa lagnat ang init at hindi ka makalabas sa tindi ng humidity – eh di Dubai’s favorite past time – shopping!!!!

Dubai is all about shopping. Every year, we have two major shopping festivals – the Dubai Shopping Festival during January and the Dubai Summer Surprises during June-August – to legitimize the number of people staying inside the mall para magpalamig lang. Of course, there are a lot ot ither occasions for more shopping: there’s Ramadan Sale, the Holiday Season Sale, Spring Sale, Fall Sale, End of Season Sale, Moving Out Sale, Inventory Sale, plus a lot more. Kaka-hilo, kaka-excite.

Shopping is like breathing here, you can’t live without it. Of course you have a prepare for it – save money and have a credit cards ready – nothing wrong with the kaskas mentality – just be able to pay them back and do not overuse and abuse them. If you do, welcome to the club – ahihihihi! No, never neglect your obligations. Don’t forget that.

I love shopping in Dubai because they really take one of my favoritest four-letter word very, very seriously: SALE. If in the Philippines, we get excited with 20% price reductions, dito bahaw lang yan. Here, items go as far as 70% off (minsan nga may 90% pa eh – nahiya pa no, di na lang ipamigay?) Common din ang B.O.T.O. (buy one, take one) Ang saya saya!

My friend cannot believe it when she first came to Dubai during a SALE season. In the Philippines, she can only afford to buy a pair of shoes from Nine West during birthdays and important occasions, but here she can grab a pair every payday. And for the regular price of a Nine West pair back home, she was able to buy three pairs here. As in! Todo na itu!!!

Like may girls my age, I love designer brands. Imported and classy names that I only used to see in fashion magazines are all available here in Dubai. Ika nga ng SM Shoemart, “We’ve got them all!” Gucci, Prada, Tods’ Coach, Pucci, Armani, Versace, Dior, Chanel, D&G (yung laging pinasasalamatan ni Boy Abunda sa The Buzz, miski hindi naman niya kilala personally yung designer, Burberry and of course, my favotirest of them all – Louis Vuitton. Ayan ha, tama ang spelling ha? I really don’t know why girls are gaga over Louis Vuitton. Nakaka-gaga talaga! Sure their bags are so classy and stylish. I think every local has at least one LVin her closet. They not only buy one bag, but at least on bag from every season and collection. Well, they have the money for it. That’s the one thing we do not have in common – atik na pumipilantik! Honestly, do you think I’d spend a month’s worth of salary just for a bag? If I was crazy, yes. But will having that bag makes me as stylish and classy as those locals? Eh lahat nga sila parepareho ng bag eh.

Once I saw a group of flight attendants waiting for their service at the airport. All 7 of them, in their uniforms, were carrying the same Gucci bag – same style, same size, same color. Anu yon uniform na rin nila? I wasn’t impressed by their fashion sense. If everyone is wearing the same thing, then it is not special anymore – boring noh? Let’s face it, we buy these expensive brands to impress others – not just ourselves – so that they would think we’re special. Aminin!

Last week while waiting for my Caramel Maquaipo – decapitated of course – in Starbucks, a Caucasian lady asked me where I got my bag from. I was surprised that she notice my abaca bag – eh sa tiangge lang sa Greenhills ko na-iskor to noh? “It’s really lovely and gorgeous…I love it!!! sabi ba naman? “Thanks, I love it too.” “Hirit ko nga. It only meant two things: that it doesn’t matter whether your bag cost Dhs3,000 or Php375 – as long as both design and quality are very good, and miski mas mahal pa ang isang box ng
Greenwich Pizza kesa sa bag ko, pang-business class naman arrive kasi carry ko i-project ito. O laban ka?

So if you’re super duper loaded with cash or can afford to kaskas to max and still be able to pay for it – go ahead, pamper yourself with designer labels. Just learn how to pronounce their names properly ha? Kung hindi, may award ka.

But if you’re a budget, or you want more variety ther are brands like Zara, H&M, Woolworths, Bershka, Splash, and of course our national fruit Mango. Stylish pero more reasonably priced. Nakabili ka na ng imported, nakakarami ka pa.

This way, you can shop every season without spending your annual vacation money over a handbag that’s soooo all over the place – na if you’re not as sosyal as me at hindi ka sanay mag-carry, baka mapagkamalan pang peke! Now, that’s a Hall of Famer – be sure to prepare a speech when you accept your award while weeping buckets of tears.

So, excuse me while I detach the label that reads “Louie Bitoy” from my new handbag. Oh, mukhang genu-wine, laban ka?!

October 11, 2016
The Annie B. Chronicles: “Cuzin to the Rescue”

“Cuzin to the Rescue”

The Annie B. (Batobalani) Chronicles

Once upon a time, in the sleepy barrio called Capunitan in the quiet town of Orion in the no-SM Mall-yet-province of Bataan, there lived two dreamy lasses. They treated each other like sisters, even though they were just cousins. Up to their early teens, both even shared the same crushes. They never fought – except for that single incident when they had an on who was cuter – Bryelle Mondejar or Ronell Victor – which eventually got settled when they both realized that Jestoni Alarcon was, two thumbs up.

But just like the song, some good things never last. Eventually, one of them left the barrio to pursue a degree in Mass Communications in fast-paced Manila. The other had to stay and continue her studies in the provincial capitol.

That’s what I remember of Corazon Candelaria Catacutan Curapot – or my cousin Cookie. The last time we saw each other was during Miss Gay Undas in our town plaza five years ago – until I got a text message from an unknown number last week. “hI aNniE! C cUKi I 2, D2 nA riN mE sA dUbAi. kitA nAmn Ta U.” Little did I know that Cookie and I would cross each other’s paths once again – here in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai.

In our exchange of texts, I learned that my long-lost cousin Cookie arrived in Dubai over a month ago to work as a cashier in a newly opened restaurant. So one weekend, I decided to drop by her place so we could see each other. I imagined she’s already changed a bit from the barrio lass that I last in the town plaza years ago – but what I saw horrified me. Here’s Cookie’s new story:

She shares a room with eleven other Pinays. They’re all burara and lazy. They all complain that they don’t have time to clean because of their shifting schedule. So Cookie, who is always organized, does all the cleaning for them, even their own laundry and ironing. They praise Cookie for her delicious cooking, so she also does all the cooking, even the washing the dishes. They always rant about their financial problems, so good old Cookie lends them money for everything.

Aba..aba..aba! Now all that made my blood boil. And inspite of all these, Cookie does NOT mind at all. How pateticks!!! How can anyone be this naïve? Naiiva talaga itong pinsan ko o – napaka-clueless – hindi naman nya kamukha si Alicia Silvestone!

Hay naku, enough if this pa-martir effect. This abuse should come to an end. Now na – as in NOW! Wala sa lahi naming ang mga api. Stoooop meeeee!!! (Tigilan ako!!!)

I quickly gave Cookie a lecture on how she should stop these people from abusing her kindness and generosity. For as long as Cookie doesn’t complain, these people na naturingan pa man ding kababayan will never return the favor and change their old habits. They want to eat? Eh di magluto sila! Their room is dirty? Eh di maglinis sila!!! They don’t have money anymore? Eh di manigas sila!!!

From now on, they will witness a new Cookie – a woman with confidence, style and a new attitude. I will groom her to be just like me – independent, fashion fastforward, abilitated (ahem, ma-abilidad…), a go-grabber….mmmm….ano pa ba?

So my darling cousin Cookie, toss that broom and start dressing up. The clock is sticking – the Dubai Summer Surprises is here. Sugod kafatiiiiid!!!

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September 12, 2016
It’s What I Do – Fritz Sapon Servanez & Jennifer Gonzales

It’s What I Do:

Fritz Sapon Servanez

Assistant Manager for Administration & Accounts Dept. – LG Electronics Middle East

Dubai, UAE

MY JOB

As Assistant Manager for the Administration and Accounts department of LG Electronics Middle East, I am responsible for processing payments to all our employees and suppliers. I am also authorized to transact with banks. My manager and I are the contact persons for all queries with regards to our companies accounting and financial issues.

MY WORK DAY

To start my day right, I offer a prayer. I pray for the renewal of my strength and patience. As an accountant, a typical day means checking and responding to e-mails from employees and suppliers. It also means checking bank statements for all cash inflows and outflows, preparing checks for any urgent payments , and asking suppliers for updated statement of accounts for reconciliation. Yes, it all sounds very routine, but for me it is a very fulfilling job.

CAREER ADVICE

Lasting success doesn’t come overnight. We all have to work hard for it. Respect your seniors, do what is right and treat your company as if it’s your own. Trust in God’s plan for your life. His timing is always perfect.

Jennifer O. Gonzales

HR and Relations Manager

United International Private School

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

MY JOB

As Human Resources and Relations Manager of UIPS in Dubai, I am part of the management team that handles policy formulation, direction, recommendation and review for the improvement of existing systems and programs in the school. Most of all, I am responsible for training and developing employees to help them excel in their respective fields of expertise. Having worked in the Philippine government for 26 years or so, my skills set is unique as it is rigorous and extensive. I am also credited for spearheading and institutionalizing several CSR programs for UIPS.

MY WORK DAY

My job entails common sense, hard work, discipline, and promoting the Filipino heritage of excellence. It is a demanding job, but thankfully, I manage to take the challenges that come my way in stride. Despite my hectic schedule, I make sure to accommodate projects that help galvanize the spirit of volunteerism in the hearts of our kabayans.

CAREER ADVICE

Be proud of your identity as a Filipino! Help those who are underserved and underprivileged. It will give you inner peace and the confidence to face your Creator.

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August 12, 2016
Artist Spotlight: Eugene Cubillo Filipino Visual Artist & Painter

I am Eugene Cubillo

My art is a visual diary – an extension of myself and my experiences. Most of my works are in mixed media. This allows me to address different issues in a storytelling manner whilst giving myself more creative freedom. The challenge of using mixed media is part of my statement. It represents my commentaries and observations on the crucial issues that beset our society today. It helps me to manifest how I perceive the Filipino culture in my head– where it is now, and where I feel it is headed to.

My Journey

I’ve always loved drawing. One time when I was a kid, drew myself as a stick figure playing basketball in every page of my notebook. I remember how surprised I was when I flipped the pages and saw the stick figure moving. Hindi ko alam na animation pala yun! So when I grew older, I took up my first ever job as an in-betweener/clean-up or assistant animator in an animation studio. In college, I studied Computer Engineering for almost two years, but eventually shifted to Fine Arts and Design. By then, I started getting exposed and introduced to different media and techniques. In the year 2000, I decided to work full time as a painter. It was very difficult at the beginning. At times, I had to choose between buying oil paint or buying milk for my child. Challenged by this circumstance, I came up with the idea of producing art from found objects. This allows me to sustain my art production, but still challenge my creativity. To supplement my income, I also conduct workshops on basic painting. I always remember to treat my art na parang babae na kailangang mahalin, bigyan ng oras, panahon at halaga para hindi magtampo, at pagkatapos nun ay mamahalin din ako ng art ko. Trust me: it works!

My Process

From being traditional, my work has evolved into my own unique hybrid art form. Combining different media frees me from the usual creative constraints. My inspiration tends to come from the mundane: everyday experiences that are often dismissed as boring or ordinary, such as commuting in trains, buses, and jeeps, meeting people at the streets, and neighbors chatting. My idea is to create a visual language that associates the object to an experience outside of its environment. My approach is representational and spontaneous. I use marks and texture in all (or some parts) of my artwork. The objective is to capture the essence, substance, and association between forms in order to suggest a deeper meaning and a sense of connectedness. In a way, I try to draw comparison through contrast – showing how two things can be similar even though they are wildly different from each other on the surface.

My Accomplishments, Thus Far

On top of winning some art competitions and participating in group shows, my most memorable experience is my first solo show entitled: Mga Barahang Ligaw, which I launched in 2011. My idea then was to use playing cards as a medium to express the notion that life is like a gamble. Since then, I’ve been doing solo shows every year, the last one having concluded on the 13^th of July 2016. I am now planning and conceptualizing for next year’s show.

My Advice to Aspiring Artists

Just love what you are doing. Enjoy it as best you can. When the struggles come, make them your strength. Attend art exhibitions and connect with other artists. Learn from them.

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August 10, 2016
The Annie B. Chronicles: FEELING BEACHY

“FEELING BEACHY”

The Annie B. (Batobalani) Chronicles

The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai

It’s happening – my skin getting dry, my nose is moisty, my armpits are sweaty, and my bungang-araw are hume-hello….yes…summer time is just around the corner – all the signs are telling me to hit the beach!

One Friday afternoon, my flatmates and I headed for the Jumeirah Open Beach – by chance, try to meet new guys and display our pang-Temptation Island outfits. Armed with kalderos of adobo and steamed rice with matching litro of softdrinks , we set up our area at the beach where everyone can see us. Of course, the traditional kodakan would always be there – for new pictures to send to our family back home and upload in our Facebook.

But by sudden twist of faith, a group of six-footer Russian girls started laughing as we were doing our version of Viva Hot Babes’ Bulaklak. Aba, aba, aba! Who are they making fun to? We maybe all under 5 feet and 2 inches but our legs are definitely shapelier and our skin smoother than theirs. They look like a bunch of Super Sireynas wearing those tacky colorful swimsuits anyway. Annoyed and opended, we decided to set up our banig in another area. Then I gave them the finger. Etong sa inyo, o!

We continued to explore the rest of the beach when I suddenly spotted a fafa – some Arab buy who’s looksalike Collin Farell – jogging. I had to put on my Vina Morales spirit in an instant and started jogging away. I ran as fast I could so the cute habibi would notice me, but after twenty minutes, I got the feeling he’s not interested. So, I stopped and I decided to try the water and thought of other tactics to attract other guys. Sayang naman ang outfit ko noh!

While doing my backstroke, I didn’t notice that I was swimming far away from the shore. Suddenly I realized that I was alone. Then in a wink of an eye, I saw something coming towards me…it was a black fin….as in ANAK NG PATING…. Jaws na itu!!!! I paddled as fast as I could, but the more I moved, the more I sank into the water – I’m losing control……Jaws koh….I think this is the end of my life…. I could feel the water getting colder….dizzizit-so-not-it!!! HEELLLLPPPP!!!! Jaws ko pooo…..may pateeeeeeeeeeeng!!! The boat is sinking!!!

Then I felt a strong force grabbed my hair… anak ng….wala namang ka-poise-poise itu oh! I felt like a dog being rescued from drowning. When we reached the shore, the guy who saved me out of the water dragging my left arm…araay…teka, teka…then he said, “Hay salamat, akala ko nalonod na….akala ko nagainom ng tobig. Mukhang cunsyus naman si Ati eh….” I saw his face – “uy, kisig Pinoy!” It was the Pinoy lifeguard.

Before the opportunity walks away, I quickly pretended to be unconscious – so that he’ll revive me by mouth-to-mouth resusotacion – French kiss na itu!!!

But I think he knew that I was faking it. Still I didn’t move….as my friends were starting to panic and tarantated. Deadma pa rin ang lola nyo-pagkakataon ko na ito noh! But instead of the Pinoy lifeguard coming close to me, it was and old Indian guy with long ang kinky beard that wanted to give me a mouth-to-mouth “Ok, I kiss Filipini now….Oh noooo…. I quickly opened my eyes and breathed loudly – hirap pala magpigil ng hininga!!! “I’m ok! I’m ok!!” I shouted just as the old bearded man was trying to lay me down the sand again. “I sed, I’m okay!!! Maga-patuka na lang ako sa ahas!!!!!!

Dizzizit!!! Ayoko na….who thought my first beach escape would turn out to be such a disaster? From the Russians to the pa-delicious Arab jogger to the sharks and to the Father Tropa lifeguard wannabe? Hay, this is too much! Hindi kaya ng powers ko! Next time, I will just sun bathing in my flat rooftop by myself. Yes, life is a beach…but mine is a double beach!!!!!

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August 4, 2016
Filipino in Andorra: My Pinoy Life

Filipino in Andorra: My Pinoy Life

By Arlene De Ocampo Bathan

I have been living in Escaldes, Engordany, Principado de Andorra for 22 years now. I moved here when I was only 8 years old, along with my sisters and my parents. It was my mother who moved here first, and after a while she brought us in one by one.

Andorra is a very small country located between the Pyrenees Mountains, which separate France and Spain. The country is called the Principality of Andorra, and is composed of seven parishes: Andorra La Vella, Les Escaldes, Sant Julia de Loria, La Massana, Ordino, Encamp and Canillo. The capital is Andorra La Vella, and they have their official flower which is the “Grandalla.” The official language is Catalan. We do not have presidents and kings, but we have a governor and his 28 official advisors. The population is around 80,000 people. Filipinos are probably 2% of all inhabitants.

Andorra is best known as a country of many mountains. If you look to the left and to the right you will only see mountains. But if it were not for the mountains, tourists probably would not come. Andorra is famous among neighboring countries due to its thermal waters and ski slopes. It is place full of stories, different cultures and winter sports. When the big snowfall comes, the landscape becomes completely white.

Here, the weather is always changing. From September to October is autumn, when we get abundant rains. During the winter season of November to February, the landscape is covered in snow and turns almost completely white. From March to May is spring when flowers begin to open up and you realize that summer is coming soon. Summer is my favorite of the four seasons.

There are lots of beautiful places in Andorra. For people who like to go walking in the mountains, there are many charming places and viewpoints where you can see the best views of the country. La Vall d’Incles is a good example. There you can take a leisurely trek and enjoy an amazing scenery. You will also find lakes where you can fish, or even swim if you don’t mind the cold. We have many hiking trails in Ordino and even in Grau Roig – two of the most beautiful parishes in Andorra.

We have a chapel that is located in Canillo, which is called The Sanctuary of the Virgin of Meritxell (the country’s patron. I believe it was restored in the 17^th century and was destroyed in 1972. Then a sanctuary adjacent to a church chapel was built by the architect Ricard Bofill.

Filipino in Andorra: My Pinoy Life

My Life

We have a quiet life here. The best thing about it is that I have my family with me. That’s what’s makes me enjoy living in a foreign country. I love spending time with my family. On days off, my husband, daughter, and I go visiting parks and places we have yet to discover. I also love reading scary books and romance and enjoy a good meal – whether Japanese, Italian or Mediterranean food.

There is a spa resort in Escaldes – Engordany called “Caldea.” It is the only place where you can enjoy the hot springs, and I love it! In fact, there are plenty of places to see and love in Andorra. If I have any cause for complaints, it’s that living in a country surrounded by mountains can sometimes feel a little claustrophobic.

My Community

There are about 800 Filipinos residing in Andorra. We make up about 2% of the population. We have a Filipino community organization called FILAND and the current president is also Batangueño. We always celebrate national holidays like Christmas, and often organize raffles and activities aimed at helping those who are in need back home. Our last project was for the victims of typhoon Yolanda. Admittedly, I am a bit hesitant to join the activities, as my Tagalog is not as polished as I would like. Anyhow, I have my husband and I understand each other in a unique way by speaking a mixture of Tagalog and Spanish.

Filipinos have a good image in Andorra because they see us as hardworking people, confident, responsible and highly responsive to the needs of our employees. The only difficulty we have is the language – since the official language here is Catalan and not Spanish.

My personal culture

I have a mixture of different cultures in me. I love learning Filipino culture because I didn’t have an opportunity to be immersed in it. I like the freedom in this country, but I also like the education of youth in the Philippines. I don’t define myself as Filipino or Andorranian. I guess, I’m ‘undefined.’

When I return to my home country, I love people-watching, especially their reactions, their words, their ways of dealing with adults and even how they treat you when you walk into a store and smile even when things go bad. It is completely different from here. It is complicated to implement that mindset here since cultures are quite opposite.

My Message

Being an OFW is not easy. The sacrifice of leaving your family behind not is in vain, however, as we did this for them to have a better future. We were born with the blood of a fighter! So let us fight for those dreams!

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July 27, 2016
It’s What I Do: Shay Michaela Tan

Arch. Shay Michaela Tan, UAP

Architect/Designer

Office Inspirations – Dubai, UAE

I graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Architecture in 2014 and moved to Dubai at age 20. I was blessed to land a job that allows me to live my dream career, in a company that rewards me for my ideas and contributions.

I currently work as an Architect-Designer, concentrating on space planning, conceptual design, furniture and technology proposals. My job also entails competencies in 3D visualization and graphical presentation. I am involved in commercial, retail, education and hospitality projects. While working, I have decided to take my career to the next level, and aimed to be a licensed Architect. It was 6 months of intense preparation, but it was all worth it.

Every day for me is a different story. I treat my life as an everyday blessing. I spend most of my hours at work brainstorming and collaborating with my colleagues, but I try to step out of routines and do other things that can develop me socially, professionally and spiritually. During break time, I watch tutorials and read articles that help me expand my sphere of interests. Time is a chance, and every chance is a privilege.

Word of advice to my fellowmen: let your faith be bigger than your fears. Learn to see the good side in everything. It is okay if you don’t get the “perfect” job; just believe that God has a plan prepared for you. If you lose a project, trust that there will be thousands more out there, and you will find them. If you fall a hundred times, God will be there a hundred times to lift you up. Your journey will never be perfect, and there are no shortcuts.

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July 27, 2016
The Annie B. Chronicles: Bloody Blind Date

BLOODY BLIND DATE

The Annie B. (Batobalani) Chronicles

The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai

After Ashton, my DOM Pinoy Valentine date never returned my phone calls, text messages and emails after our romantic Eyeball – Ang labo mo, Ashton! Sorry ka na lang…It’s not my loose, it’s your lost!!! – my boss set me up in a blind date. This time with a British guy – yes. White leghorn na itu – Dizzizit!!!!

So the blind date was all set – 8pm at the Noodle House, Emirates Towers. I take it as a good signs that he likes Asian food- that’s already 100 pogi points for trying to please me. After a night of practicing my British accent, I got all dressed up and went to the Emirates Towers to meet my blind date. When I arrive at the Noodle House, there he was, tall, very white. He is maybe I think around 50 years old. I am not bothered by his age – I like mature men – they are more stable in life you know.

“Eh-nnie? Eh-nnie Batow-bah-lo-nnie is that you. How’ya doing, Luv?”

“Oh, I’m bloody fine thank you and you – how bloody are you?”

“I’m starving! Why don’t we get to our seats and have dinner now? We’re just right on schedule…(British pronounciation)”

While ordering our food, I noticed they don’t have Palabok and Lomi and even Bihon –what kind of Noodle House is this? Even Spaghetti they don’t have!!! Eh diba puro noodles ang mga yun? Haayyy….Cooper ordered Nasi Goreng.

“My favorite dish!” He said. “I spent almost twenty years all around Southeast Asia, ya’know? I’ve already been to Hongkong, China, Ja-pen, K-ree-yeh, Viet-num, Cum-bow-dyah, Tay-lend, Boh-lee, and of course, Mah-nee-luh…” Cooper said.

“Oh, I’ve also been to Hongkong…for a stopover!!!” Akala nya sya lang ang well traveled noh? Pasiklaban ko din nga.

Anyway, I thought Nasi Goreng will be something special – eh hallerrr, Tapsilog lang pala yun! As for me, I got Broccoli with Oyster Sauce as appetizer – para pa-girl – and Type Pad Noodles. I’m so hungry I quickly finished my broccoli. But again, I got disappointed – my noodles were very spicy! My armpits began to sweat – minus 50 points itu!

“Are you ow-kay, Luv?” Cooper asked.

“To tell you the truth, no…I don’t like the food here. My food is very spicy. I might paint if I continue to finish this…” I complained to him.

Since Cooper is very understanding. I thought of a way to make him feel thank you-ed. “Come, I’ll bloody take you to a real noodle house!” I suggested.

So we got into his car – a Land Rovers 4×4, sey mo? And I gave him direction towards Deira. Minutes later, we arrived at – wherelse – but the pride of the Philippine’s fine dining here in Dubai – Chowking!!!!

So while the kabayans stared at us – Inggit lang sila ako may date na puti. Eh ano kung para akong tarsier sa tindi ng kapit ko sa date ko? – we had a grand time feasting on Pancit Canton Chopseuy, Fried Tilapia, Kare-kare and my ever favorites – Buchi and Chicharap!

However, as I continued to tell Cooper the story of my life while eating Chopseuy and Kare-kare, I noticed that he wasn’t paying attention – he just kept looking at my mouth. Maybe I’m so kissable lips? Hindi ba sya makapag hintay? After eating, I thought we will still be bar-hopping but he said he will have to take a rain check. I told him no need to check the rain because it doesn’t rain in Dubai. But he decided to call it a night. He drove me home and even before I could give him a goodnight kiss, he quickly ran away in his 4×4. Bakeet???

All this time, I kept in thinking, “what went wrong?” Was I too hot? Was I too beautiful for him? I thought Dizzizit na talaga – but he never returned any of my calls and texts. Men – lulu at lili (lulubog at lilitaw).

July 21, 2016
It’s What I Do: Julius Duran & Vencer Montes

Julius Duran

Architect – Perkins + Will

Dubai, UAE

I am an architect working here in Dubai for 7 years. Perkins & Will is an international design firm with its homebase in the US. Our projects range from doing high-end villa interiors, to designing corporate offices, to designing skyscrapers, up to doing urban planning and landscape architecture. Our diverse clientele to name a few are Google and LinkedIn.

My primary job is preparing 3D visuals through computer-aided software which will be used as a communication tool to clearly express the design intent to clients. It will also be used as a marketing tool to sell a certain project. 3D Architectural Visualization is an interesting field. It is a blend of Architecture/Interior Design and Visual Arts, hence I can be technical and artistic at the same time.

My everyday routine here is driving to a nearby Metro station from where I live (because I stay far from where I work) and taking the train to bring me to my office. This is my way of beating the horrendous rush hour Dubai traffic. Weekends are spent in the mall, with the family, maybe hit the beach or do some camping if the weather permits. I live together with my wife and son, which is the best thing as it drives homesickness down to a minimum.

I started my OFW life in Abu Dhabi and made the shift here in Dubai when my wife (who’s also an architect) had a job offer here. So the choice was either she or I would have to travel back and forth Dubai and Abu Dhabi, or I could just find work in Dubai as well so our family could just be rooted in one city. Good fortune may have been on my side at that time, because it did not take long for me to find a job. So here I am.

We Filipinos are a resilient and hardworking people who always take pride on whatever we consider our own. Given the right venue and opportunity, we can rise to be at par with the best in the world. We as a people are emotional and sensitive at best, which means we have passion. That passion, if channeled in the right path, will bring us closer to whatever we are aiming for. All of us working here abroad, whether you’re a service crew or a manager, have the same dream and aspiration: a better future for ourselves, for our family and loved ones, and for our country. So let’s hold on to our dreams, stop complaining or pointing fingers at the mistakes or inefficiencies of others and just do our best. Do good and be good. Together we will be the best!

Vencer Montes

Clinical Coordinator

The Dental Studio – Dubai, UAE

I am a Dentist by profession in the Philippines, but here in Dubai, I am a Dental Assistant and Clinical Coordinator at The Dental Studio here in Jumeirah. I have been working here for almost eight years now, and I am very happy. I take part in many dental procedures, mainly Prosthodontics, Surgeries, Periodontics, Endodontics and Orthodontics. I mainly do CADCAM Dentistry here (Digital Dentistry), and I am also responsible for Radiology and Licenses. My job is interesting in the sense that I am rebuilding what is lost, and being a part of the team responsible for restoring smiles and self-confidence.

I always keep myself challenged. My mentor here in the clinic would show me cases and I will replicate them. We never rest on our laurels. No matter how well we do, we always find ways to do better and perfect what is already perfect. This keeps us on the edge and ahead of everybody. What I also love about what I do is seeing how my efforts help restore the confidence of an individual. Seeing our clients happy is what makes our day.

My message to all of us, Filipinos: do not think less of yourselves! We can make a difference. Never settle. We can always do better, be better, and be the best! We are a proud nation. Lets show the world what we can do!

July 15, 2016
The Annie B. (Batobalani) Chronicles: Eye Ball

The Annie B. (Batobalani) Chronicles: Eye Ball

The adventures and misadventures of a ‘not so average’ Pinay trying to make it in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai.

It all started with this…

Machogwapito25: Hello der! ASL? 😉

Pinayhotchick: hey! I am 24 years old. Filipina in Dubai. U? 🙂

Machogwapito25: Kumusta Miss Kabayan? I’m 29, mestisuhing Pinoy, taga-Dubai din for 15 years now. 😉

Pinayhotchick: Us in 15 years?!!! ang cool mo naman…so fluent ka na mag-arabic?

Machogwapito25: Shuhada, habibti? How long are u here in Dubai?

Pinayhotchick: Newbie pa lang me…4 months pa lang…:smile:

Machogwapito25: Wowowee!!! Fresh na fresh ha? Well, let me be your guide!

Pinayhotchick: Talaga??!!! How nice of you naman. Promise yan ha? Sky’s the langit? Teka, may wheels ka ba? Haha – kasi papano tayo gigimik di ba?

Machogwapito25: But op cors! Ok na ba sayo ang Mitsubishi Pajero? 😉

Pinayhotchick: Coool!!! 100 pogi points! I’m interested! 🙂

Yes the hopeless romantic in me finally gave in. After a month of everyday chatting and exchanging of emails, we agreed to meet each other in person thru an Eye Ball. At first I was hesitate to meet him – I told him that my visual statistics are 36.23.38….I’m finally had to reveal that those are really my lucky lotto numbers.

It was confirmed – a Thursday dinner date, 7:30pm at Tagpuan Restaurant in Karama. I’m finally meet the man of my dreams. Maybe he is just being humble – what if he’s really a millionaire kabayan who’s been looking for the right girl to bring to the altar and be his queen in the kingdom of the rich and the famous lifestyle? Jumeirah Janes, here I come!

As my date is truly romantic, he reserved a table outside the restaurant – Dinner Al Presko!!! Romantic na, presko pa! I thought I was already late becoz there were just old people having goto. I sat down in one of the tables, feeling like Julia Roberts in the movie “Pretty Woman”, waiting for my date to surprise me. I ordered a glass of Sago’t Gulaman to freshen up and ease my tension. Then suddenly, this DOM kabayan from the other table looked at me and smiled. Ngiii!!!!… I know I had mestiza features so that’s why he might think I’m a Russian you know. The he suddenly waived his hand – the nerves! What does he think of me? A waitress?!!!! So I just ignored him and pretended to sip Gulaman. Then, he called me in a familiar name.

“Pinayhotchick?”, as he walked towards my table.

“Bakeet?!!!” As I faced the other direction.

“Miss ikaw ba si Pinayhotchick from the chatroom?” He pulled a chair and sat comfortably.

“Eh ano ngayon sa yo?!!!” “Excuse me, but as you can see, I am waiting for my date….”

Then it occurred to me, “Oh noooo!” Could this DOM Kabayan be…

“I’m machogwapito25!” he blurted out.

All of a sudden, I’m stopped. (Natigilan ako.) How come this guy is different from the one in the chatroom? He said in our chat that he is mestizo and looksalike Robin Padilla with a little bit of Piolo Pascual…but how come he is like Dencio Padilla with a little bit of Panchito?!!! I thought he is just 25 years old – but from his looks I think he’s been in Dubai for 25 years now. But the bling-blings in his finger, his wrist, his neck and his teeth flashed a blinding light on me – dedma na sa hitsura but I think this guy is really loaded!

“Sige nga, if ur really machogwapito25, where is your car?

He picked up his car keys and pushed on of the buttons.

Bleep! Bleep!

I turned around and saw a red Pajero behind me – with the lights blinking on and off. So dizzizit….wala ng urungan…magka-subuan na…deal or no deal? Game na? Game naaaa!!!!!

“Hi machogwapitooooo!!!! I’m pinayhotchick. I’m Annie B. I’m a pleasure to meet you.”

“Whew! Akala ko iindyanin mo na ako eh. Kasi at first it’s like you are hesitate.” DOM Kabayan said. “Bay da wey. I’m Anastacio Antonio. Call me Ashton for short.”

I got excited. “Alam mo yan ang gusto ko sa lalaki – ang may personality! Bukod pa sa iyong CAR-acter-ahihihi! You know what, kapag nag-anniversary tayo next year, I want to have dinner in this very same restaurant – in this same table pa mismo! Romantic ba? Syempre susunduin mo ako at ihahatid sa office ko sa Media City, tapos sabay tayo magdi-dinner every night, then every Sunday magsisimba tayo together. Tapos every weekend magpi-picnic tayo sa park, o kaya mag-a-out of town or magbi-beach. O sa museum naman kaya? Ang romantic di ba? Tapos manonood tayo ng sine then kakain sa restaurant then kape sa Starbucks – you know….”

Ashton: “Ha? (sabay-lunok) Ahh…ehh..di ba pwedeng getting to know each other muna tayo?

July 14, 2016