Illustrado Magazine – Filipino Abroad

Tag: Filipino

IT’S WHAT I DO – DECEMBER 2015

EDUARDO VIRAY

Buying and Merchandising Manager – MEA Region

CLARKS – Dubai, UAE

MY JOB

I am the Buying and Merchandise Manager of C & J Clark International for Middle East and Africa including their Turkish Subsidiary. Clarks is a British, international shoe manufacturer. Our company has over 1,000 branded stores and franchises around the world and also sells through third-party distribution.

I am responsible for driving commercial business goals through product and merchandising strategy across the MEA region. I am also responsible for all regional product selection for our franchise partners which entails setting up their product portfolio selections every season according to market requirements and needs. Part of my job is also analyzing market and competition and providing recommendations and insights crucial for business decision making. I also conduct regular trainings on seasonal product strategies and focuses.

I was originally a Project Development Officer for the Planning Division of NEDA in Bulacan. But fate brought me to merchandise planning job in retail for which I am very thankful for. I had found my passion in fashion and worked with some of the best retail companies and brands in the Middle East, including Mikyajy where I got my foundation on merchandise planning. Thereafter I moved to Majid Al Futtaim Fashion and where I worked for 5 years – starting out as Wholesale Sales Support Manager, and then Senior Buyer for brands Juicy Couture, Jane Norman, Fat Face, Mexx and Lucky Brand Jeans. I then joined Burberry Middle East as Regional Merchant in 2012. I then briefly joined Al Tayer Group handling planning for the Men’s Department of Harvey Nichols and Bloomingdales before joining Clarks.

Apart from meeting a lot of cool people, one of the perks of my job is traveling. For the last 10 years in Dubai, the only thing that kept me sane is the fact that I get to travel to different countries almost every other month. It’s great but it’s also exhausting. But hey, no complaints, I get to travel all expenses paid!

MY TYPICAL WORK DAY

My work day starts while I am behind-the-wheel. Driving gives me clarity. That’s when I start thinking about what has to be done during the day. I am quite an organized person, so as soon as I sit at my desk I do my priority list. I typically have meetings throughout the week, either with my general manager, our franchise partners, UK counterparts, or my assistant.

As a planner, I am well organized. Any deviation in the plans will be a huge headache for me. I am very keen on details. Hence, I review and analyze all reports. I manage and control pricing architecture, sales and forecasting for Clarks Shoes in the region and hence numerical data analysis and reporting is very crucial to my day to day routine.

However busy my day is, I also make sure that I have time for small chats with colleagues and friends. That provides me a boost whenever I feel drained at work. During the weekends, whenever I get the chance, I visit my friends and brunch or dine out with them. I also love to watch movies and go to the beach.

CAREER ADVICE

Be yourself. Be proud of being a Filipino. Acknowledge that you are a talented individual and that you can do needs to be done. Filipinos are very diligent and have an unbelievable resilience. Our work ethics are the best in the world; we have the best minds there is. Our attitude and our positive outlook in life define the culture that we have and we must embrace that. Living in the Middle East for 10 years has taught me many valuable things but one thing stands out – equality! In Dubai, equal opportunities are there regardless of nationality. We just have to believe that we can do it, and do it better!

………………………………………

BETTY GUEVARRA

Division Manager –Merchandise & Planning

AL TAYER GROUP – Dubai, UAE

MY JOB

I am associated with one of the largest groups of company in the Middle East. My core experience is in Merchandise Planning and Buying. As the head of a division, I have a team who supports me in achieving our division goals & KPIs. What is really good about working in this region is that you get to work with different kinds of people from different parts of the world. My team is quite diversified – composed of Irish, French, Moroccan, African, Egyptian, Lebanese, Sri Lankan, Indians, British, Belarusian and of course Filipinos.

Apart from leading a team, I get to travel to meet the principals and top executives at the luxury beauty brands. I’m exposed to reading/reviewing legal contracts, store designs and concepts, as well as brand management. It is my responsibility to ensure we have the right assortment of brands in the stores and we create an atmosphere where our customers feel delighted leaving our store feeling beautiful.

MY TYPICAL WORK DAY

The first thing I usually do in the morning is check my calendar then read specific folders (emails from the management) in my inbox plus go through the daily sales report. Then, I have a quick catch up with my team – we call this daily huddle. In here we briefly share news, concerns and our priorities for the day. In a lot of cases, my day is packed with back-to-back meetings. After meetings, I pass on the information to my team for action. I also have my TO DO list – often these are quite strategic so until, and when these are finalized they remain in my list. As the division head, it is typical for me to be approached by someone either seeking help, solution or a decision, every single day.

I joined this company as Administration Assistant where my role is to do what I was told to do. With the grace of God, I reached a level that a lot of Filipinos would probably aspire for. Currently I rank the highest amongst the Filipinos in the company. I take the pride in representing Filipinos at the office, especially when I discuss business strategies on a quarterly basis with the top management like to CEOs, Senior Vice Presidents, Vice Presidents, and General Managers. To be part of the Executive Team, can get very challenging. The expectations are huge and you have to be ready and prepared all the time.

One of the best and most interesting tasks I do is coaching. I realized I can motivate people and this is something that comes naturally to me. I had a colleague who was very challenged with his previous manager, and was about to resign. Due to restructuring, he was moved under my leadership. I saw great potential in him – coached him regularly to ensure he achieved key milestones. It has been 4 years since then. He has been promoted 3 times and is now one of my Seniors, confident enough to lead the division in my absence.

The best fulfillment I get is when I see someone from my team grow and be promoted – to me this is success.

CAREER ADVICE

Believe in yourself, stay hungry and don’t settle for less. Get acquainted with the kind of person you ought to be. Don’t give up on your dreams, they are worth fighting for. It has always been my mantra to keep striving for more and often I ask myself ‘how could I have done this better?’ This will help you improve yourself.

January 18, 2016
Baby, It’s Cold Outside: Being Single During the Holidays

Dealing with Being Single During the Holidays

By Kristine Abante

“Single. There’s a certain dignity to it”, goes a line from an old 90’s cult movie favorite, but this quote is especially challenged during the holidays, when the temperature starts to drop, love is in the air again and you start to notice that snuggling in bed with your comforter watching silly rom-com movies just doesn’t seem to be enough to compensate for the general lack of body warmth around you.

And if you’re Filipino, it’s the time of year when there’s no escaping the myriad of Christmas parties and family reunions that will bring you face-to-face to that 98% chance of being asked the dreaded holiday question – where is your significant other? Or when are you getting married?

It can come out loud from your old pesky uncle who has had way too many San Miguels, or your very concerned Tita, your recently married friend, or it can be a discreet look of pity from those who are already too embarrassed to ask you for the nth time (like your Mom) but make no mistake about it, the question will come up.

The truth is whether it bothers you or not, whether you care enough to admit it, being on your own during coupledom’s peak season is not an easy task, but there is definitely a silver lining to it all and that is – “Hindi ka nag-iisa, gurl (or boy)!”

There are plenty of certified SMP (Samahan ng mga Malalamig ang Pasko) members out there.

We talked to some of our fabulous Filipino singles on how they cope with being on their own during the holidays.

Affected much?

Danabelle Gutierez, a writer based in Dubai who recently published her collection of love poems “I Long to Be the River” says that sometimes she feels she’s like the last single person on earth, but other times it doesn’t matter.

“I have been single for 11 Christmases. This Christmas would be the twelfth. Honestly there have been more Decembers where I don’t even think about it. I mean, sure, it would be nice to drink hot chocolate, cuddle up next to someone by the fireplace in a log cabin, while it snows outside, but I live in Dubai so there’s a slim chance to that fantasy. “

“My best survival tip is to live your life, surround yourself with the best people, eat all the best food, and make good art. If you’re a writer, write. If you’re a painter, paint. Whatever medium it is that you use, just make good stuff, and keep doing it”, adds Danabelle.

Admittedly a hopeful romantic, Dubai-based marketing Exec Kate Narvaez opens up on her holiday blues. “It bothers me sometimes spending weekends alone or going out to a club or a restaurant with friends and not have someone hold your hand, dance with you, or just generally be cheesy with. I’m used to being single, holidays or not, but I have to admit it would really be good to meet someone special, someone for keeps.”

The good and the bad

Betsy Vergara, a Finance consultant based in New York shares that there are two sides to the coin, the best and worst part.

“One of the perks of being single during the holidays is the element of openness to spontaneity. If you are a willing subject, you never know what’s in store for you during random invites to parties with other single friends. There’s also that freedom of doing the things that YOU would feel like doing, no need to please others. You can have one year that crazy/busy/crawl back to your apartment tired and hung over, and the next year, you can be a total hermit. You can do what your heart pleases.”

“The worst part is the constant reminder that you are not in a relationship. The Christmas events that are solely targeted for couples. Seeing coupledom PEAK everywhere esp. during the holidays, in the parks, restaurants, movies, in media. I mean EVERYWHERE!”

“Honestly we all have the tendency to crave affection from a beloved, but there’s no need to feel alone. As for me, I live in New York, where as they say ‘anything can happen’, so you never know, I’d rather enjoy and be optimistic,” Betsy adds.

Yvette Camba, a self-confessed scrooge who works for Emirates Airline also shares the sentiment. “I like the freedom and it doesn’t really bother me, but being surrounded by couples doing all sorts of PDA (public display of affection) sometimes gets to you. I suppose they’re entitled to that. For the most part it’s just irritating when you get asked all the time about ‘why are you single?’ like it’s not allowed, or it’s such a crime to be on your own. Otherwise I love December, the nice weather, the jolly vibe, minus the traffic and freakish consumerism, I enjoy the joie the vivre feeling it brings. ”

Fight for your right to party

Jake Javellana 31, video editor, who has been single since he moved to the UAE says that he’s immune to all the holiday coupledom stress.

“I enjoy it (being single) to a certain degree, since you can do what you want and you don’t have to consider anyone in making decisions. The best part would be the feeling of being free. I am not that bothered since I am not big on holidays to begin with. I try to be more outgoing, meet people or I take up a new hobby so I will be busy.”

Mackie Andres, 27, a sound engineer based in Manila also tries to take it easy and gets by his single status through tongue-in-cheek jokes.

“How long have I been single? As the Air Supply song goes: ‘All My Life.’ I don’t really enjoy it, but hey the best part is no drama, of course, there’s also no love! Haha! Anyway, look at all the food this Christmas!”

“If I could ask Santa for one thing this year it would be for this girl I like who is now online on Facebook to stop ignoring me. As much as I want to start a chat with her, I’m stopping myself because I know I will just be ‘seen-zoned’,” he says with a laugh.

Support groups and shopping priorities

Chai Boiles, 38, who broke up last Christmas with a long-term partner opens up about celebrating this Christmas alone.

“Do I enjoy it? Yes and no. Yes, kase may mga friends and sisters naman ako dito sa Dubai, so I have a good support group. The best part is that I don’t have to worry about buying a Christmas present for the boyfriend, tipid diba? Of course, you also miss the tight hugs, nothing is better than having someone to hug during the cold months and if I can ask Santa for anything, I want a husband!”

Ella Sison, 31, a chef based in New Zealand shares the same sentiment on the relief of not having to think about presents.

“Sometimes kasi you feel that your “obligado” to give them nice expensive gifts during Christmas, at least now that I’m single I don’t need to think about it. The best part is being free from commitments, but I have to admit there are nights when you just allow yourself to wallow in the loneliness.”

“The best survival tip is to keep yourself busy, be happy and love yourself even more. If you’re up to it, there’s plenty of dating apps you can check out. Of course it’s nice to have someone special, but at the moment I’d rather focus on my career more than anything else.”

Escaping the blues

If being single means not being committed to anyone, happy traveler and now Boracay-based, Christine Consas shares her fair share of being alone.

“I have been single for 6 years and 10 Christmases, not counting my non-committal 2-year relationship. I travelled with him first see how it goes and then I finally decided to go on my own, go home and pick up the pieces.”

“It’s great to be home for the holidays, I’ve been away for so long that it feels good to be surrounded by happy people and people who love you, you realize there’s really no reason to despair, everything will fall into place at the right time.

Make-up artist and Emirates Airline staff Erl Daguplo who has been single for 5 years says that it takes a brave woman to suck it all in.

“I’m enjoying the independence, but inggit strikes when you see all these sweet couples. For me, I normally cope with the holiday blues by using my travel perks to backpack to a faraway land and just get away from it all.”

While travelling may allow you to escape the hassle of dealing with the holiday blues, cabin crew Joanna Ardiente, who gets to fly all over the world for her job thinks it’s also what’s keeping her from not finding a stable relationship.

“For the most part I’m not that bothered to be single during holidays. This job has saved me from heartaches and going crazy but I must admit I do get a bit jealous, like when you gather up with friends, and you’re the only single person in the group there’s that moment when you start comparing yourself to them and thinking about how lucky they are while you sit there and wonder why you can’t have the same thing? Of course, you also start to realize that it’s better to stay single and wait for the right guy rather than just find someone less ideal to cozy up with, just because it’s the holidays.”

Wishing, waiting and choosing to be happy

Mykhel Reyes, IT professional based in Dubai is the single guy who doesn’t mind the wait. “I believe that in everything you do, you have to be intentional. During this holiday season, you can choose to be happily single, and you can also chose to love. For me, I already found the perfect girl it’s been three years since I’ve known her. I’m holding out for her because I love her and when you love someone you don’t just stop.”

For the girls who are also in the waiting line, Mykhel has this to say – “Remember you are WOW – Woman of Worth – worth pursuing, worth caring for, worth the wait.”

In the end, being single during the holidays is not so much about being alone as to opposed to feeling alone. Being alone may or may not be your choice but the truth is you really have no reason to feel alone.

So chin up, put on that warm smile, face the Christmas music and get ready to give and receive a dozen holiday hugs from the people who thinks you are a wonderful adorable person, albeit still single.

Read also: Holiday Survival Tips for Singles

December 22, 2015
A Pinoy Christmas around the World

A Pinoy Christmas around the World

Christmas Filipino-style is truly unique. From our long celebration spanning the ‘ber’ months, to Simbang Gabi and Noche Buena, our generous Christmas feasts at home, the way we exchange gifts through monito-monita, and so much more, the way we commemorate the season is quite legendary. But how do our kababayans observe Pasko when they’re in a home away from home?

Pinoys from around the globe, from the land Down Under, to Land of the Rising Sun to the US of A, share what it’s like to celebrate their own hybrid version of Christmas.

ALI AQUINO CAAMPUED

Brisbane, Australia

In Australia, Christmas falls during the mid-summer holidays. Locals hang wreaths on their front door and they go out Christmas carol singing on Christmas Eve. As a way of sharing the joy the season, the Australian Filipino communities hold traditional Filipino celebrations like the “Simbang Gabi.”

Our family celebrates Christmas the traditional way. We have a feast in our home, and sometimes go to friends’ homes for a Christmas Dinner Party where gifts are exchanged. We also decorate our house with bright lights and a Christmas tree. In our family, the youngest always places the star on top of the tree. The kids enjoy watching the show “Carols by Candlelight” where carols are sung by performers before Santa comes. At exactly 12AM on the 25^th of December, we open our presents while listening to Christmas songs.

To families across the globe, may the peace and blessings of Christmas be with your family, and may the coming year be filled with happiness.

RONNIE & JOCELYN MERCADO

Dublin, Ireland

In Ireland, where we have been living since 2002 and the rest of the family joined in 2006, Christmas food includes a round cake full of caraway seeds. Traditionally, one cake is made for each person in the house. You will see turkey and ham as well as the potatoes at the dinner table during Christmas Eve. Of course, there’s also a little bit of music and don’t forget the Christmas crackers. Kids usually have their own Santa socks that they hang near the fireplace so that they can put their written wishes. Every morning of the 25th of December, the children wake up very early and run to the Christmas tree where they can find their presents from “Santy”.

For our family, it has always been a tradition to go to church and attend evening mass where we say prayers for our loved ones. We celebrate Christmas in Dublin Filipino-style. Other Filipino families also come and visit our home and celebrate with us. As they say, the more the merrier! We usually have a potluck dinner. Some bring Filipino food while others bring traditional Irish dishes. Kris Kringle is very big in Dublin too!

REI GARCIA

London, UK

I’ve been in the UK since 2003. Met my wife Jemima here in London, got married and now, we have two children. We celebrate Christmas here in London a bit different from back home. Still iba pa rin sa atin. In our case, we gather together with friends and relatives in one of our friends’ house for Christmas Eve. We all bring food and drinks and sometimes, fireworks, to celebrate. Of course, because life here is very much work, work, work, this is the only time we talk about life back home – especially how we miss Christmas back home. We all try to have a good time sharing and giving gifts to one another. Then, each family goes home before the sun rises. Then, in my case, like this coming Christmas night, sadly I have to go back for work.

Here in London, locals celebrate Christmas just mostly in their homes with family and friends. It’s all indoors because of the cold weather. It rarely snows, especially at Christmas time, but the weather is still cold. It’s not like back home where you can see people everywhere – in the streets, celebrating in their own different ways. That one, I truly miss.

To all Filipinos wherever you are, be with your loved ones on that special day and think of all the blessings you received this year and all the blessings that will come next year. Ignore all the bad things that happened before and learn from them. Love your family and spend every Christmas Day with them.

NOEMI VICTORINO

Vancouver BC, Canada

Most locals in my adoptive country celebrate Christmas with family. It is no different from how we Filipinos abroad spend Christmas. I guess people around the world, regardless of their background or ethnicity, place a high value on family and the importance of being together.

To Filipinos around the world – home is where the heart is. Where your family is, is where you will find your heart.

ELMA SANCHEZ IRVING

California, USA

I’ve been in the US for 25 years now – that’s quite a long time. Here, Christmas is fun with lots of decorations and lights everywhere. What I find different is the fact that they don’t celebrate as long as Filipinos do. For the most part, they wait until the end of November before they start any decorations or preparing for Christmas. This is due to another holiday that they celebrate which is Thanksgiving. We Filipinos as soon as the “ber” months hits, we’re in full gear with lights, Christmas Trees and Holiday music. Everyone seems to be happy and in the mood for celebrating.

Filipinos have a lot to look forward to leading to the actual day of Christmas which includes – carolers, Simbang Gabi, Midnight Mass and Noche Buena, unlike here in the US there’s the Christmas Shopping and the actual Christmas Day where everyone gathers, spends time with family and exchanges gifts. Although being Filipino, my family and I have managed to adapt and incorporate our Filipino ways in how we celebrate Christmas here.

Our family is very diverse. Our third generation (which I’m a part of) has married into different cultures. So when celebrating Christmas, we have to make sure we incorporate everyone’s practices. Especially when it comes to food, we have a mixture of Filipino, American and other countries specialty to make sure that we please everyone in the family. On the day before Christmas, we would usually go to a mass at night and have a small feast with the immediate family. We usually do it as late as possible like a “Noche Buena.” We will stay up as late as we can and as long as we can handle it; as you know there are no neighbors to visit and there are no carolers that can keep you up all night long.

On Christmas Day, we usually get together with the whole family including our grandparents, aunts and uncles and all the cousins which in our case would be a minimum of at least 30 to 50 people. Our cousins are pretty lucky and spoiled to still have aunts and uncles who take care of everyone during the holidays, We gather, we eat, we drink and we exchange gifts until everyone starts to leave for another party that they have to attend – usually at their in-laws. The very interesting part is that no matter what, everyone finds a way to stay as long as they can before heading out because they know that is never as much fun with the in-laws unless you’re married to a Filipino.

Maligayang Pasko, from my family to yours. We hope that wherever you are, even far from our home country you make it a point to celebrate and be merry. We wish you all with love, peace and happiness!!!

MAREAE RICCIA ADLAON

Choa Chu Kang, Singapore

Since Singapore is home of different religions, not all people celebrate Christmas here. It’s totally different compared from what we have back home and from what I’m used to. For some, it’s just like a normal day, which, I respect because it’s what they believe in.

Christmas Singapore style is not as big as how other countries celebrate it. It has its own share of uniqueness though. Apart from the magnificent Christmas decors that you will see along Orchard Road where you won’t be able to resist stopping and taking a selfie, they also do have Christmas menus in most of the restaurants here, as well as the ever famous log cake which you can only buy during the holiday season.

We organize themed parties to celebrate the holidays. Games, drinks and lots of food are present during the celebration. Gladly for me, I celebrate Christmas with my sister, cousins and some close friends. And how can I forget, the Christmas exchange gift (Secret Santa) which is the highlight of our event every year.

With all that being said, this just goes to show that Christmas is Christmas. No matter where you are, who you’re with, how it’s being celebrated, the spirit of it will always be around cause it is definitely in everyone’s hearts.

During this yuletide season, I wish for continued blessings for everyone. This is not only a season of gift giving but also a time for us to spread love and kindness.

For my fellow kababayans who are celebrating away from their loved ones, I just want to remind you that you are away from home for a reason. You may not be able to celebrate Christmas with them now, but you’ll never know you might have the chance to be with them next year! So hang in there! Be strong!

Lastly, I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! God Bless us all!

AYRA E. CANNON

Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan

The Japanese celebrate Christmas also but not like Filipinos because they are not Christians (although some Japanese have converted into Christianity, as well). They also put Christmas decors in their home and go for Christmas shopping too. They prepare Christmas cake and roasted chicken for Christmas Eve.

We celebrate Christmas here in Japan the Filipino way. We go to church to

complete Simbang Gabi. We also put up a Christmas tree and put Christmas décor and lights around the house. I also put out our parol which I bought in the Philippines some years ago. On Christmas Eve, we prepare cake and roasted chicken too just like the Japanese. But not only that. We also prepare other Filipino favorites like spaghetti, pansit, barbeque and other kakanins.

My message to all Filipinos all over the world – have a very Happy Christmas! Let us all celebrate Christmas with love and peace with each other!!!

BENNY SUMALILENG MENDOZA

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea

Christmas is celebrated here in Port Moresby just like any other place in the world. The city government starts the Christmas season by lighting the peoples’ park with different Christmas lights on the streets and the trees. Every night, people gather at the park to watch entertainment prepared by different groups. The city government also proposed a competition for different business offices to have the most creative Christmas decorations and they will be rewarded. As soon as December starts, all the restaurants and hotels are very busy because businesses celebrate their Christmas parties then.

Our family celebrates Christmas together with other Filipinos who stay back in the city during the Christmas holiday. We gather together in one hotel and celebrate amongst ourselves. We also go to the Christmas program organized by the Filipino Association and celebrate with other families. We exchange gifts, we drink and we eat together. We watch Filipino channels on television just to feel the warmth of Christmas celebration in our country. We also use Skype, Facebook and Viber to reach out to our families back home.

To all the Filipinos around the globe, let’s not forget the real meaning of Christmas in our lives. Let’s go back to our families and be reunited if we were separated. Let’s forgive our friends who committed mistakes against us. Let’s not forget the traditions that our elders have taught us. To those who were not lucky enough to get a good job abroad do not lose hope. Keep your faith. God is with you. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

December 21, 2015
Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Patrick Fronda – Filmmaker

PATRICK FRONDA

Patrick Fronda is a multi-awarded filmmaker based in the United Arab Emirates. He started his career as a visual artist and later became a film editor and an educator teaching college students about the nuts and bolts of film-making at the Murdoch University in Dubai.

His notable works in directing include ‘Pump It’ and ‘I am a Star’. In 2013, Patrick dominated at the 48 Hour Film Competition sweeping 5 major awards including Best Film and Best Director for his wacky short – ‘Pump It.’ The film then represented Dubai at the Filmapalooza in the USA in 2014. In the same year, Patrick won 3rd Best Film for his entry at the Nikon Film Festival in Dubai. He was also a finalist at the Samsung Video Competition, where his work ended up being screened in Dubai International Film Festival.

Although there is little support to aspiring filmmakers in the country, Patrick remains steadfast in pursuing his passion. “Maybe we are lacking in resources but we have dedicated people who believe in film making. They are my strength, and without them I can’t do it alone. People like my students and some followers help me whenever I need a workforce. As long as there are audiences and people believing in my works, I’ll be doing what I love.” As for the absence of an industry here, he shares enthusiastically, “The UAE might not have an interest or plan to have a real platform here, but I am here to build that. My dream as a filmmaker is to establish a platform for Filipino film makers here – to build a name that we can compete with foreign and local directors.” He adds, “We are natural story tellers’ marami tayung pwede ikwento. I want to show more of our positive side rather than negative. Sa atin kasi, they mostly show only third world problems dahil patok sa first world countries yung ganung plot. But for me, gusto kong maiangat yung level ng thingking ng ibang lahi about us, and I want to tell that visually on film.”

November 8, 2015
Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf – Patrick Fronda – Film Maker

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf – Patrick Fronda – Film Maker Patrick Fronda is a multi-awarded filmmaker based in the United Arab Emirates. He started his career as a visual artist and later became a film editor and an educator teaching college students about the nuts and bolts of film-making at the Murdoch University in Dubai. His notable works in directing include ‘Pump It’ and ‘I am a Star’. In 2013, Patrick dominated at the 48 Hour Film Competition sweeping 5 major awards including Best Film and Best Director for his wacky short – ‘Pump It.’ The film then represented Dubai at the Filmapalooza in the USA in 2014. In the same year, Patrick won 3rd Best Film for his entry at the Nikon Film Festival in Dubai. He was also a finalist at the Samsung Video Competition, where his work ended up being screened in Dubai International Film Festival. Although there is little support to aspiring filmmakers in the country, Patrick remains steadfast in pursuing his passion. “Maybe we are lacking in resources but we have dedicated people who believe in film making. They are my strength, and without them I can’t do it alone. People like my students and some followers help me whenever I need a workforce. As long as there are audiences and people believing in my works, I’ll be doing what I love.” As for the absence of an industry here, he shares enthusiastically, “The UAE might not have an interest or plan to have a real platform here, but I am here to build that. My dream as a filmmaker is to establish a platform for Filipino film makers here – to build a name that we can compete with foreign and local directors.” He adds, “We are natural story tellers’ marami tayung pwede ikwento. I want to show more of our positive side rather than negative. Sa atin kasi, they mostly show only third world problems dahil patok sa first world countries yung ganung plot. But for me, gusto kong maiangat yung level ng thingking ng ibang lahi about us, and I want to tell that visually on film.”

November 8, 2015
Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Filipino Ladies Association for Growth (FLAG)

Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: Filipino Ladies Association for Growth (FLAG)

Nowhere is the special role and capacity of women in facilitating cross-cultural understanding more apparent than in the case of the group FLAG (Filipino Ladies Association for Growth).

Lu Cimafranca – FLAG Founder – Photo by Eros Goze for Illustrado

Composed of the Diplomatic Ladies of the Philippine Consulate General of Dubai & the Northern Emirates, and supported by a select group of prominent Filipina leaders, FLAG was founded by Mme Lu Cimafranca – wife of former Phil Consul General Head Hon. Frank Cimafranca in 2014, and is now lead by Mme Yasmin Balajadia-Cortes wife of current PCG Consul General Hon. Paul Raymund Cortes. Mme. Cortes explains, “FLAG’s main objective is to enhance the role of Filipino ladies in the UAE through active participation in community events. It focuses on women empowerment and the advancement and the promotion of Philippine culture. We hope to raise awareness among the various ethnic communities in the UAE about what the Filipina woman can contribute and achieve in this country’s multicultural landscape.”

Speaking on the special role of women in the community, particularly the contribution that diplomatic spouses bring to the table, Mme Cortes elucidates, “Spouses provide the foundation for diplomats to keep grounded especially when the world of diplomacy and consular issues gets rough. In addition, we complement their work plans most often in socials and cultural events. There are many instances where the informal and back channels work more effectively than the formal and official route and this is where the spouses play a decisive and crucial role.”

Yasmin Balajadia-Cortes – Photo by Eros Goze for Illustrado

Last year, FLAG spearheaded the Terno Ball in the UAE which brought Filipino trailblazers and the diplomatic community together. The group has also provided support to some charity organizations. Continuing on, Mme Cortes shares, “We will be working on the Filipiniana Ball which we hope could showcase the uniqueness of Filipino fashion and highlight the renowned creativity that have produced superb talents like Michael Cinco, Furne One, and Ezra Santos. We also hope to plan more activities in the next couple of months.” She also adds that FLAG will also pursue worthwhile advocacies back home especially those related to disaster relief and support for less-privileged children.

“We are excited to work with everyone here most especially in projects that would uplift the image of the Filipino in the emirates. Rest assured, I will continue playing an active role in ensuring that our women are empowered and confident of what they could contribute in this part of the world,” she concludes.

November 7, 2015
Pinoys in UAE: It’s What I Do

IT’S WHAT I DO – April 2015

STEVE PADILLA

Architect & Coordinator –
Control Contracting & Trading Company
Abu Dhabi, UAE

My Job

I am an Architect/Coordinator for one of the oil and gas companies based in Mussafah, Abu Dhabi. As architect and coordinator, sometimes I visit our site/yard to check if the design of barges, cabins and offshore structures are properly followed, meeting with our clients and consultants requirements (NPCC, ADMA-OPCO, GPC, Technip, ADGAS etc.). I also make sure that all our design and engineering deliverables are properly coordinated – checking all the drawings before submitting them to our client, coordinating with the vendor, draftsman to Discipline Engineer to Project Manager until construction. In my work, I collaborate with a multi-cultural team and professionals from all levels.

My Day

I’m just a typical professional with a lot of friends. My day starts with prayers with my wife right after waking up. We start our day thanking God for another day, another exciting day. At the office before work, we have some tea first and chat with fellow Filipino staff. After work, I fetch my wife at her workplace just across the street. In the evening we eat together and chat about the day’s events. Then, I do some small household chores to help my wife who is due to give birth in May. My wife prepares our food (breakfast and lunch) and clothes for the next morning. Thursday is our family day and date day. I always make sure to ask my wife to go out and relax and have fun – even if it’s just a coffee date, sometimes. Friday is our favorite day as we go to church together.

Career and Life Advice

My message to my fellow Filipinos is simple. Put God first, enjoy your family, family bonding is very important. If family is lost, then there is no reason in working hard. Be happy for what you have, be humble and work hard even though nobody is looking at you. Enjoy your work. Don’t make enemies at work and try to be friendly and in times of need your fellow staff will be the one to help you. Make friends, a lot of friends and go out with them sometimes. Always smile in the work place. Learn the culture of other nationalities and, at the end, you will earn their trust.

Don’t be afraid to dream high. Don’t be afraid to talk to your boss. Talk to them and learn from them. At the end you will earn their trust as well. If you earned the trust of your officemates and your boss, that means promotions and salary increase. Be wise in saving money. We don’t know until when we will be working in this country. Try to learn the 10 20 70 savings system – 10% for God or whatever your heart wants to give, 20% for savings or much bigger depending on your situation, and 70% for the rest (rent, clothing, shopping gadgets etc.).

…………….

CHRISTIAN MAGADIA

Head Structural Engineer – Ted Jacob Engineering Group, Beca
Dubai, UAE

My Job

I am a structural engineer by profession. As a structural engineer I design buildings and infrastructures. I work closely with architects and other engineering professionals in addition to dealing with local authorities and decision makers. We are the mind behind all the magnificent structures and iconic monuments that make up a civilization and our responsibilities include designing comfortable houses for all of us to live in.

One of the most remarkable events in my career was when I passed the chartered structural engineering examination given by the Institution of Structural Engineers in the UK. Having a degree not recognized in the UK, I had to write a full technical report to prove that my academic knowledge and experience are at par with the UK Standards and is equivalent to a Masters Level in the UK. Achieving chartered engineer status opens a lot of career opportunities not only here in Dubai but anywhere in the World. The certification allowed me to accept a role in New Zealand to help in seismic design and retrofit of existing structures affected by the 2012 Christchurch Earthquake. I take pride that the quality of our education and trainings back home are at par with the best in the world.

My Day

As the head of the structural department in our company my day starts with planning and administrative stuff, to make sure the team has enough work and that they perform each task efficiently. Internal meetings will soon follow to monitor the progress of each project and follow up issues, programs, and deliverables. The next half will be occupied by external meetings with architects, clients, local authorities, and contractors. My day in the office will not end until I have a daily catch up discussion with our management to talk about finances, resources, and direction of the company. If I get lucky I may be involved in some hard core engineering work the following day!

Career and Life Advice

My message to our fellow Filipinos is to reach for the sky whatever role or position that you are currently in and enjoy while doing it. And the most important message is that we should all be proud to be Filipinos everywhere we go! Mabuhay!
……………

CLEOFE RINGOR

Office Manager – DSM Technology FZCO
Dubai, UAE

My Job

I am an Office Manager working in the oil and gas Industry in the Middle East. I have worked in the same company for quite a few years now and I’ve been enjoying since. As an Office Manager, you have to ensure that the office is running smoothly, overseeing the workloads of your co-workers. It’s never been easy to delegate tasks to your team, but I always see to it that everyone is happy and enjoying their work, and I try to create a healthy work environment for all.

My Day

There are busy days, and there’s time to chill, as well. My role on a daily basis is to check and complete pending matters, to recruit, screen CVs, liaise with agencies and authorities, meet with the clients, suppliers, lawyers – there are too many to mention. At the end of the day, your main challenge is your employer, how they are satisfied with your accomplishments and performance, and whether your tasks have been executed properly. Your aim is to impress them, to keep your job in the long-term and once you’re at the peak of your career, make the most of it and make yourself useful all the time, feed your brain so you won’t get obsolete in the market.

Career and Life Advice

I have started in a rank-and-file position, yet I told myself then that my career will not end there. I had many sacrifices, I have pushed myself to the limits in order to succeed and achieve my dreams, from being a receptionist to an office manager. My goal was to become a manager at the age of 35 but that didn’t happen. Because God is good! He answered my prayers earlier than I least expected and I became a manager when I was 32. It’s really not about how many trophies or medals you have earned in school, but how determined you are to produce a golden egg.

“Your dream will stay a dream if you don’t work hard for it.” Remember that – “knowledge is power.” You can do almost everything if you are smart, but refrain from doing bad. The one thing I have learned is to be fair to everyone, be kind and honest even if no one is watching you and share your blessings if you can. I must say that I am truly blessed that I am living the life of my dreams. To my friends, relatives and family who inspire me, thank you for your tremendous support, and to my Papa this is for you. I just hope you were here to see the person that I had become. I know you’ll be proud.

June 2, 2015
UAE Immigration: Visa, Deportation, Blacklist & Appeals

by Atty. Barney Almazar

Filipinos in the UAE, like any other foreigners are subject to the provisions of Federal Law No 6 of 1973 on Entry and Residence of Foreigners as amended.

The General Directorate of Naturalization and Residency (GDNR) is the authority responsible for the issuance, renewal and cancellation of entry permissions and visas pursuant to the rules and instructions issued by the Ministry of Interior.

Residence Permits

There are 2 major types of residence permits:
a. For employment – under the (1) government, federal, public sector, international bodies and corporations, (2) private sector as a worker, employer
or employee and (3) individuals as professionals, domestic servants and the like; and
b. For residence without employment – granted to those who will (1) join his family, (2) enroll in a university, college or institute, and (3) join a training or specialty course in one of the public corporations or entities.
The holder of residence permit shall be authorized to reside in the UAE during the granted period, and shall, upon the expiry of or earlier cancellation of the permit, leave UAE within a maximum period of thirty days.
The residence permit shall be deemed cancelled if the holder stays outside the UAE for more than six months.
Visit visa holders are not allowed to work anywhere in the UAE with or without payment or for his own as employer. If the visa is issued for employment, the holder cannot work for another without the written consent of the GDNR.

Deportation

A foreigner who has no expired or cancelled residence visa shall be deported at his own expense by an order of the GDNR. However, the Ministry of Interior may issue an administrative order for deportation of any foreigner, even if the foreigner has a residence visa, in the following cases:
a. if he has been convicted and the court has issued an order for his deportation;
b. if he has no apparent means of living; and
c. if the security authorities see that deportation is dictated by public interest, security or morals.
The order of deportation issued to a foreigner may include the members of his family who are under his sponsorship. If the foreigner against whom a deportation order has been issued has interests in the UAE which require to be settled, he can be granted respite to settle such interests after providing an acceptable sponsorship provided that such respite will not exceed three months.

Blacklist

The Blacklist contains the names of individuals prohibited from entering or leaving the UAE for committing a crime, for claims of civil rights against them or for posing a threat to public security. According to Article 94 of the Executive Regulations of Federal Law No 6 of 1973 as amended by Ministerial Decree No 83 of 2002, the following are prohibited from entering the UAE:
1. Those who have previously committed crimes and a deportation order from the UAE has been issued against them by the competent court;
2. Those who were deported according to administrative orders issued by the Ministry of Interior;
3. Those whose activities were reported by the International Criminal Cooperation Administration;
4. Those who were proved to be have HIV or AIDS or other diseases that the Ministry of Health deems to be threat to public health; and
5. Those who were deported from GCC countries on criminal grounds.

The same article provides the list of individuals who are prohibited from leaving the UAE:

1. A person against whom an order has been issued by the Public Prosecutor or a representative thereof in a case under investigation;
2. A person against whom a written order has been issued in a case by a competent court; and
3. A person who is indebted to the government and a prohibition order has been issued by the Minister of Interior or his representative.
In addition to the blacklist, there is also an Administrative List which contains the names of individuals prohibited to enter UAE due to cancellation of their residence permits and those who cannot leave the country and are to be apprehended due to an absconding case filed by their sponsors.

UAE Immigration: Visa, Deportation, Blacklist & Appeals

Penalties and Fines

A foreigner against whom a deportation order has been issued may be held in custody for a period not exceeding two weeks wherever such custody is essential for the execution of the deportation order.
In Dubai, holders of expired or cancelled residence visa is subject to AED100 fine (after the 30-day grace period) plus AED25/ day of overstay. Holders of expired tourist visa is subject to AED100 fine plus AED100/ day of overstay.
Failure to pay the fine will mean jail term for a maximum of three months and the courts may likewise order deportation after serving jail term.

Overturning Deportation Orders
A person who has been deported may not return to UAE unless a special permission is secured from the Ministry of Interior. The mechanism to overturn an order of deportation varies as to the cause of such deportation:
• An amnesty law issued for the crime committed by the deportee or a pardon decree issued for the crime will allow the deportee to return to the country
• Legal rehabilitation • A court decision passed for the deportee

Check out our video on the UAE Law – UAE Code of Conduct, Black Lists and Debt-Related Issues

UAE Immigration: Visa, Deportation, Blacklist & Appeals

Illustrado LIVE! Let’s talk UAE Law, Debts, Blacklist, atbp.Illustrado Live: You and the Law! Team Illustrado chats LIVE with Atty. Barney Almazar on the UAE Code of Conduct and how to address debt-related issues in the UAE

Posted by Illustrado Magazine on Thursday, June 9, 2016

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November 2, 2014