Illustrado Magazine – Filipino Abroad

Tag: filipinos dubai

Wearing It Well: Bandoix Flores Nebria – Couture Designer

BANDOIX FLORES NEBRIA
Couture Designer

What role does fashion play in your daily life?
As a designer, being one with Dubai’s high fashion and haute couture community is important to me, not just for my professional career, but also for inspiring the way I run my daily life. Kailangan lagi akong couture. It’s not just a label to me. It’s a mindset. It’s a value that I live everyday. It helps me maintain my status, and my waistline! But style and aesthetics notwithstanding, my strong set of morals defines my existence. I’m just glad that I am able to translate this level of integrity to my work. They call me klassista. For me, dapat palagi class lang.
Photo by Bruce Casanova – Jef Anog

What do you typically wear daily? What are your favorite things to wear?
Fashion is my life. This has always been the case with me. I can’t remember a time when fashion figured low on my priorities. To me, I look at it as if I am always on the runway, 24-7. I love black. I love timeless pieces. I will not be caught dead looking uncoordinated. Some people may call it “safe.” I think it’s about being put-together well, and having a sense of elegant order – think Jackie O! Suffice it to say, I cannot go out wearing a top with an abstract print. Mamatay ako! Photo by Jef Anog
What is your fashion philosophy?
Fashion is my existence. I will live, eat, and breathe fashion to the very end. That’s really the best way to think about it: fashion as a long-term commitment. Planado na nga na pag namatay ako, everyone who wants to attend my mourning must be wearing black or else they wont get a pass to see my urn jar! Save Save

July 21, 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
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Patricia Zyrinn Villanueva de Guzman

Patricia Zyrinn Villanueva de Guzman

Artist, Designer, Storyteller

Canada-based Patricia Zyrinn Villanueva de Guzman considers her art a medium for storytelling and a means to educate the world about the greatness of Filipinos. Exposed to art from a very young age through her mother, UAE-based artist Susan Villanueva de Guzman, Patricia has a penchant for creating unique millinery and jewelry. She says, “I tell stories through the form of wearable art and jewelry. I love how I am able to utilize the body as a form for exhibiting my work.”

Hoping to show her work in both Calgary and Dubai Fashion Week, as well as do solo exhibits in Dubai and in the Philippines someday soon, Patricia, who considers herself at the beginning of artistic career, already has substantial achievements to her credit – from winning a commission in Abu Dhabi for her paintings “Brother and Sister” at 18 years old, to being part of group shows and exhibitions in Canada. At the moment, this artist is busy further exploring her chosen field, expanding her design skills to shoes. She is also working on starting an artist residency program for the less fortunate back in the Philippines, as well as researching on the Bicolano Aetas.

I started creating art when I was two years old and I started exploring the theme of my cultural heritage when I was 15 in my International Baccalaureate Art Class. I remember creating a controversial piece about Filipino stereotypes attempting to shed light on how many Filipina women are stereotyped as maids. I wanted others to see that we were not just “the help” but actually talented individuals.

The process is my favorite part of creating art. I was trained to conduct extensive research and ask questions like, “What is the purpose of this piece in the overall concept?” For instance, I enjoy designing and creating head pieces. I research on the different kinds of head pieces and its history. Then I ask myself questions like: How does it relate to Philippine culture? What other myths, beliefs, and traditions compliment this idea? Then I start designing and conducting media experimentations. Once I am happy with the materials, I start creating. However, the process is not done until I photograph the piece on a model. I enjoy the process immensely because I am constantly learning.

My story is what differentiates me from others. One day, my former instructor, Charles Lewton-Brain told me that we, as individuals, we are the story. I celebrate the uniqueness of my Philippine heritage and I believe that art is not a self-indulgent vocation but a way to educate people. When I design, I infuse narrative about the rich heritage of Philippine culture. I want to open the world’s perception of who Filipinos are and what we are capable of.

Photo credit: Redjie Olino / Ashley Amber Moore / Charles Lewton-Brain

Model: Elaine Jane Atay / Maria J. Cu

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July 7, 2016
Filipino Professionals: Arch. Glenn Maambong & Cher Pauline Cruz

It’s about Pinoy progress and diversity at the workplace. Two Filipino professionals, an architect and a Marketing Communications Coordinator talk about their respective careers in the emirates.

It’s What I Do:

GLENN MAAMBONG

Architect, Deyaar Development PSJC

– Dubai, UAE

My job

I am an architect for a public joint stock company (Deyaar Development PSJC). Working as an architect for a developer is, in some ways, different to the job of an architect in a consultant company. The latter’s job starts when they receive a job to design for a specific project, while for us, we have to develop a concept and study feasibility for specific projects. In short, we design from ideas, and those become the foundation from where the consultants elaborate.

My work day

My day is always very interesting and challenging. I get to design and propose ideas and concepts. For example, at one time, I was tasked to develop and propose a concept for a hotel apartment. So, I draw CAD elevation and perspective sketches, model my concept in Revit or 3Dmax from high-rise residential buildings, to the type of units and unit layouts. I then present it to the design manager and receive feedback for revisions. Typically, most of my day is spent in front of my computer rendering my concept.

Career advice

My message to my kababayans working here in Dubai or in the MENA region is to keep working hard with a good attitude, warmth, respect, decency, faith in God and always keeping our sense of fun. This is our source of pride as Filipinos. Taas noo!

Filipino Professionals: Arch. Glenn Maambong & Cher Pauline Cruz

Cher Pauline Cruz

Marketing Communications Coordinator

Abu Dhabi Duty Free

ABU DHABI, UAE

My job

I am the Marketing Communications Coordinator of one of the brands carried by Abu Dhabi Duty Free. It is my 7^th year in the UAE and it has been a slow yet sure journey towards a career where I know I can excel in. I am in charge of everything creative for our brand – copywriting, graphic design, photography, videography, social media and budget management for our department – almost everything I love to do, all rolled into one job!

My work day

In my job, every single working day offers a new skill to be learned, new knowledge to enhance and discoveries to enrich the whole experience. You’ll never know what the new day will bring, thus, it makes the work more exciting and inspiring. I get to interact with different kinds of people and learn from them. I coordinate with media people, suppliers, customers, and with the different departments in our company. I get to do things that I only usually do for leisure and every day brings new challenges to overcome.

Career advice

With the right attitude, we will get that job that we want. Skills can always be developed, but our attitude will always lead us to the right path to success. Instead of looking at a setback as negative, try to make the most out of it and learn from it. Also, being a Filipino abroad, we must not forget about our responsibility to our country. Whatever we do outside, will reflect on others’ perception on Filipinos. Therefore, we must always be conscientious, we must strive hard to uplift our nation and we must fulfill our social and moral responsibility as a Filipino.

June 30, 2016
The Annie B. (Batobalani) Chronicles: “Working Girl”

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.

Guess what? After sending out thousands of my CV thru the internet, signing up with more than a dozen headhunters and going thru never-ending interviews…… I FINALLY HAVE A JOB!!! Mabrook to me! Dizzizit!!!! The beginning of my life-long dream: to become a professional executive worldwide. At last, my inborn talent – the gift of have or chicka in our native language. I am now officially a P.A. – not Production Assistant, not secretary, not public administration and definitely not secretary – but a Personal Assistant – to the Managing Director of Media Minds, a leading Public Relations company in the far, up, up and away Dubai Media City.

My British boss looksalike Harrison Ford – as in the Indian Jones. He’s not only handsome, but also kind and appreciative. He values my work and is always satisfied with everything I do. The best things he like about me is my coffee. He’s still drinks Starbucks every morning, but after the original coffee is finished, he tells me to refill his cup with my very own Annie B. Coffee Mix. How clever noh?!!!

As my boss is always out of the office – either travelling or during presentations or checking out the latest sale in the mall – I barely have anything to do. Honestly, my work is petiks – comfortable manageable for the eight hour – work everyday. I can actually finish everything within 3 hours. The rest of the day is just busy-busy-han for me. Most of the time, to kill time and meet new friends at the same time, I chat online and actively signed on to Friendster. This, I believe, improves my communication skills, boost my confidence level, and increase my chance of getting a new boyfriend and – promote world peace. Yes, hitting birds with one stone.

Chatting is fun – not only do meet new people from different cultures, but I also getting to re-invent myself. But don’t get me wrong – I do not lie in chatting – I only enhance my already pleasing personality. Whenever asked, I do a little subtraction with my waistline and some addition to my bustline – hahaha – fun isn’t it? There are times I get too passionate and chat with three to five different people at the same time while typing some documents for my boss. That’s what you call multinational-tasking, I guess. Sometimes I mix my chatting with my boss’ documents. One time, I typed, “Our campaign aims to target 5’2”, smooth but chubby Filipina in the U.A.E. which covers more than 75% of the population.” Hahaha – it totally didn’t make sense. My boss noticed my mistake but I quickly told him I was carried away with his marketing plan. I know it was a big boo-boo and I’m being careful now in juggling my chatting versus my official work.

Anyway, among the seven different guys that I chat with online, there’s this Filipino guy that has caught the fancy of my eyes. He’s really catch my attention because not only he’s a kabaya, but we have a lot of things in common. His profile reads. “175cm tall, 75 kilos, a resident of the UAE for five years now, mestizo, a hopeless romantic and a rebel without a cause…” I’m picturing Robin Padilla in my mind already. And he listens to jazz music like Kenny G – such a sensitive soul! I bet he’s the type showers women with dozens of flowers and takes them to candlelight dinners. We haven’t swapped pictures yet but something tells me he’s the one. We’ve been chatting for almost three weeks now and he’s suggesting that we finally meet in person thru an E.B (EyeBall). I haven’t said yes coz I told him my waistline is 23” and that my bustline is 36”. I have lost weight really fast and look for a triple wonder bra before I say yes to his EB invitation.

Tick…tock..tick…tock…It’s still 10 minutes before 6:00pm – more time to kill before my carlift arrives and be able to go home. My boss is also pretending to be busy. I could see the reflection of his computer monitor thru the window beside him. It’s an online poker site. Whew! More guys are buzzing me for a chat already. It’s really true: When it rains, it’s force. Why not? The more entries you send, the more chances of winning – the more the many-er!!! Time for some Annie B-loving again:

I.T.A.L.Y. – I Trust and Love You

J.A.P.A.N. – Just Always Pray At Night

D.U.B.A.I. – Do Understand Business Always Important

S.H.A.R.J.A.H. – Seeing Him Always Refreshs Jolly Active Heart

U.A.E. – Uy, Awesome, Eh?

Q.A.T.A.R. – Quick Ask The Answer Right

June 23, 2016
#MoveOnPilipinas

#MoveOnPilipinas

By Consul General Paul Raymond Cortes

My country just ended a month-long campaign to entice registered Filipino voters in Dubai and the Northern Emirates to participate in 2016’s Presidential elections. Every six years, Filipinos across the globe choose their leaders through what is possibly one of Asia’s, even the world’s, most frenzied democratic processes. The particular election year seemed quite more fervid. As far as I could recall, at no other time in our recent history, except thirty years ago during the 1986 Presidential Snap Elections between then President Ferdinand Marcos and Corazon Aquino, was everyone deeply zealous of their choice for the country’s top leadership. Support for the candidates was intense, bordering on the fanatical. Everyone joined the online fracas – each mouthing off an argument or two in favor of his or her candidate. Exacerbated by social media, the attempts at discrediting other Presidential contenders and, even more, their supporters were filled with vitriol. Quite frankly, the cyber bloodbath was brutal and harsh.

The end of the campaign season now puts us back in square one. Where do we go from here? In the six Presidential elections I have participated in, getting back on track as one nation has always been a challenge for Filipinos. Those who voted for losing candidates become adamant in supporting the elected President with the stubborn hope that they be vindicated at the earliest possible time. They openly mistrust the new leader, branding him/her as incompetent and unworthy of the national leadership. Each mistake is magnified and derided. Sadly, this attitude has delayed our capability to move on and get on with the task of nation-building ahead.

We must not degenerate into being categorized by the candidate we favored. Months before we opened the voting process to our Overseas Filipinos, surveys had already divided the Filipino soul into a pie chart of Presidentiables. Much effort was undertaken to lure others into their fray either by sweet coercion or by brazen bullying. As oppressive as the Philippines’ summer heat, vituperative words were exchanged between supporters, between commenters, and between tweets — so much so that the race had seemingly become an personal battle between Filipinos.

On the one hand, it was refreshing to see Filipinos deeply involved in the discussions on issues our society faced even if they had been residing abroad for so long or if they had been so long detached from anything Filipino (especially the dizzying world of Philippine politics). Showbiz inanities were the normative starting point in conversations regarding our homeland not governance issues. Facebook somehow reinvigorated their propensity to dissect and intelligently discuss the country’s societal concerns. It strengthened their resolve to see Inang Bayan rise to the glory each Filipino believes the Philippines deserves. Social media awoke the burning desire of every overseas Filipino to cure the ills of his motherland so that embrace her welcoming arms without fear of having to leave her once again for economic or political reasons.

The downside was that comment after comment, the barbs between camps were acrimonious, as if any distasteful remark merited infuriated responses from each other. Faceless interactions emboldened people all the more to viciously malign each other, consequences of a renewed arrogance hiding under invisibility the internet so conveniently cloaks them with.

By this time, a new President would have been chosen. A new one who did not statistically gain the majority of the electorate. Majority or minority notwithstanding, the incoming President will be leader of a 102-million-strong nation – a country and people desperately craving for a captain who could steer their ship to greater heights and loftier dreams. They will be pleading for a government that would build on the gains we have already achieved and at the same time, further catapult our economy to global preeminence; a dream so sought after by a famished national soul that longs for the day when we can finally bequeath a better Philippines to our children and our children’s children.

June 22, 2016
The Annie B Chronicles: “Mabuhay, Dubai!!!!”

The Annie B Chronicles: “Mabuhay Dubai!!!”

“Welcome to Dubai Annie B!” Dizzizit! The moment I been waiting for – to see the city of the promised land – where taxis are not named “Bulaklak”,”Rocalex” or “New Rocalex” anymore, where all places are air-conditioned and people live in condominiums – okay, flats – and opportunities are everywhere, where sky’s the langit!

“Mabuhay, I am Athena Daffodil Batobalani from Orion, Bataan, Philippneeeeessss!!!”

Dressed in my Marlyn Monroe outfit, me and my cousin Froricel arrived at Deira City Center, which reminded me of SM Megamall. I can’t wait to shop! But of course, I need to get a job first. So window-shopping muna….

I’m amazed with all the handsome men around me – locals who look like Richard Gomez and Ian Veneracion, Europeans that looksalike of Brad Pitt, and Indians and Pakistans mala Christopher de Leon and of course, other Arabs that remind me of John Spainhour … Come to Mama, my dear Papas!!!

Later on, my cousin’s suitor, Prakash, joined us for dinner in Chili. Prakash is weird. He kept shaking his head all the time. He can’t seem to get satisfied. “Are you ok?” He swings his head….”Do you want some fries?” Swings his head but goes on to finish the fries in my plate…”You’re really hungry, noh?” swing his head again. “Are you joking my leg?!!!” swings his head again…”Hay whatever you say so!”

After dinner, we went for a joy ride. My jaws dropped as I saw the high-techness of Dubai. Well…well… well…look what do we have here. The skycapers along Sheikh Zayed Road are amazing – like Makati times ten… parang… New York! I felt like I am in a movie. “Wooooowwww!!!!” Haneep!!! Shocking!!!” I can’t find the words to describe Dubai. I was also witness the fantastic luxury place of them all – the Burj Al Arab!!!” My cousin told me that it is 7-stars hotel. I can’t believe it because I only know 5-stars hotels in Makati. And the shape – it looks like a space ship from Star Wars!!!”

Then we drive around Jumeirah, which is like Forbes Park. So full of big mansions! Unlike in Manila, they light up their houses very brightly – maybe to scare the Akyat Bahay Gang here. On the road, I also saw the sports cars – Perari, Porsh, Lamborgenie – they have it all here!!! Next time I need to have non-stop Kodakan with all the cars, the buildings and houses around Dubai.

Then we went to Jules Bar – sossy place with lots of kabayans and other lahi. I was so surprised because the bands are Pinoy. The place was so crowded, standing room only. My cousin ordered Bullfrog. I liked it but I miss Gin Pomelo. They don’t have it there. The place was very full of fun – everyone was having a good time!

After we finished our drinks, we moved to another bar – this time a Pinoy kind. We arrived in Ratsky’s – I’m so glad they also have a branch here. This way I won’t get homesick. The place was jampacked with Pinoys. I noticed there is no dress code. Most of our kabayans were dressed in basketball jerseys, shorts and tsinelas – how comfy! I felt overdressed of course – as always. The bar’s band sang more Tagalog songs. Most of their repertua were from Bon Jovi, Celine Dion and Aegis. I get sentimental whenever I hear….”Heto ako, basang basa sa ulaaaaannn!!!!”

Ahh, painful memories from the past. Who cares? Everything is all spilled milk under the bridge. I am now in Dubai – and soon, my dreams will about to be true. I am after all, a woman of the world nowadays – ready to conquer the world under the tips of my finger in my hands, where I can have my cake and bake it too… Dubai, here I am…are you ready for Annie B?!!!

Do you know how Annie B ended up in Dubai? Read it here –

June 16, 2016
About Pinays Take Charge
The Pinays Take Charge campaign is an advocacy project of Illustrado in line with the Women of Substance endeavor created to contribute to Filipina empowerment. The project seeks, not only to create a more positive image for Filipinas in the region, but also to assist in addressing problems and concerns relevant to Filipinas.

The Pinays Take Charge Guidelines have been written to provide simple guidance specific to prevalent Pinay issues in the region – to inform, educate and alert Filipinas to possible causes of problems. The information and provided herewith come from insights from countless Filipinas interviewed or who participated in the research of this project.

To know more about Pinays Take Charge or to be a part of this movement email us at: admin@illustrado.co, or call (+971 4) 365 4543. You can also visit our website: illustradolife.com or our Facebook Pages – Illustrado Magazine, Go Pinay.

Living in the Middle East

Bear in mind that the Middle East has a totally different culture to the Philippines and certain behaviors and practices, which are considered normal or are tolerated in the western world, can get you into trouble.

Some ‘simple things’ that can get a woman in trouble –
- Chatting and smiling innocently and referring to strange males as “My Friend”
- Accepting a ride from a stranger or going into a stranger’s flat
- Allowing unknown males into your home
- Dressing in clothes which are considered too revealing – i.e showing thighs (wearing shorts), uncovered shoulders, cleavage and other sensitive body parts, especially in public areas or locations where there are a lot of bachelors
Did you know that these things are prohibited, punishable by law and can get somebody in jail?
- Getting pregnant out of wedlock
- Having a physical relationship with a man who is not your husband
- “Living in” (cohabiting)
- Public display of affections – kissing, etc.
…………………………….

Dear Empowered Filipina,

We are fortunate to belong to a country and community where we are recognized, treated with respect and provided equal opportunities.

However, we still have a long way to go towards achieving our full potential, especially outside our own country where we are sometimes looked at negatively, or where we can easily fall into bad situations.

It’s time that we face our pressing issues and take control of our life.

We invite you to take the Pinays Take Charge Pledge which hopes to inform and remind you of some simple guidelines that should help you towards success, and to avoid problematic situations.

This is a project that hopes to contribute to the Empowerment of Filipinas around the world.

Let us all take one step forward.

Go Pinay!

Taas Noo, Filipino!

The PINAYS TAKE CHARGE Pledge
1. My body is my own. I will take care and protect it, knowing full-well that I should not depend on somebody else to do so, or to make that decision for me.
1. I will be careful in trusting others, especially strangers and strange men. I know that by befriending strangers, or putting my safety in the hands of people I don’t really know, I could be putting myself in danger.
1. I will be aware of the rules and understand the customs and cultural sensitivities of my host country, and will adhere to these without fail. Ignorance is not an excuse and could land me in trouble.
1. I will dress appropriately at all times. I will dress depending on the place, the occasion, the people I will meet and the environment that I am going to.
1. I will be aware of my verbal and body language. I will be careful with what I say and what I do. I know that my words, actions and Filipino friendliness can sometimes be misunderstood as a sexual come-on by strange men.
1. I will protect myself and fight back, whether verbally, physically or otherwise, if somebody attacks or harasses me or makes me feel threatened. I will show them that Pinays are strong and will not allow themselves to be victims.
1. I will nurture myself. I know my worth and I will not settle for less than what I deserve. I will be true to myself and continue to grow my talents, my skills, and passions as I tread the path towards success and true independence.
1. I will live with self-respect and will safeguard – not sell out – my values.
1. I will make my own decisions and understand that whatever choices I make, I will have to be responsible for them completely.
1. I will love myself, knowing that nobody else can love me as wholly and completely as I can, and that I cannot give love if I have no love.
April 11, 2016
Filipino Abroad – It’s What I Do

Filipino Abroad – It’s What I Do

KRISTOFFER MENDOZA

Restaurant General Manager

II Café di Roma – Dubai, UAE

My job

I am a Restaurant General Manager. Being responsible for the entire business entails that, I manage operations, handle Human Resources, as well as accounting. I have been in Dubai’s food and beverage scene for more than a decade now, and this has enriched me with skills and knowledge that help me to fulfill my job.

My typical work day

My day starts with me briefing my colleagues on our daily target, tasks and updates in order for them to be fully aware and equipped with information they require to achieve what needs to be done. Then, I check my e-mail for any developments on orders, projects and reports. I inspect the whole outlet to check if everything is in good working condition, our standards are being followed and reports needed being done effectively and efficiently. Once it starts to get busy, I supervise operations. When all is well and functioning smoothly, I will then tackle my daily reports and updates on stocks and deliveries. At the end of the day, we tally all finances and provide a report to top management.

Career advice

We have all left our country to seek greener pastures. Once you are able to land a job, be the best that you can be and learn to develop yourself no matter what trade you are involved in. Be professional all the way, until your last working day. The world is very small. Who knows, maybe one day you’ll end up working for a former colleague who knows of what caliber of performance you embody.

Filipino Abroad – It’s What I Do

…………………….

CHARMAINE ROXAS NACUA

Sales & Marketing Manager

Histomer Swiss Italian Skin Care – Dubai, UAE

My Job

As the Sales and Technical Manager of Histomer exclusively distributed by JS International LLC, I am tasked to generate demand for my brand portfolio within my territory covering segments such as medical spas, beauty centers and dermatology clinics, to ultimately reach targets, while handling my clientele with the best customer service. To support my clients, I conduct monthly Histomer- Certified Classes in our office as well product knowledge refresher trainings to ensure that skin therapists and doctors are familiar with our product protocols.

My medical background as a Physical Therapy graduate, plus my stint with Pfizer Philippines gave me an edge in mastering my products by heart and skillfully communicating the benefits of my brand target audiences of different races and backgrounds. As part of my job, I also conduct product demos and customize marketing-related events or workshops in support to spa managers and owners assuring product satisfaction on the part of my clients and their valuable customers. I also create spa offers or clinic deals to promote the spa or clinic facial services using Histomer products as per special marketing arrangements.

My typical work day

I am blessed with a wonderful family; a loving supportive husband who runs his own mobile fitness and conditioning company and an adorable charming six year-old son who live in Dubai with me. So my mornings are always adrenaline-packed from 6AM – taking care of breakfast and preparing my son for school. As my work timings are flexible, I can effectively juggle my family and work responsibilities.

I check my emails and social media accounts and spend time feeding my soul as well. Then I check my appointments and meetings in my diary. Then, off I go to visit my clients in the field and check out leads in the area. There are days where I need to conduct trainings or workshops, then, there are also times where I hope from one door to the other seeking new accounts that have certain requirements which I match up with my solution products. It is a never-ending challenge and thrill to meet new faces and see places in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman which is my area of responsibility. The more I am exposed in the field each day, the more exhilarating it is for me.

Having been in Dubai for 12 years, I have had my shares of simple yet very hard beginnings. Through the challenges, I have developed patience in everything. It was nurtured in me when I went through all the hardship, the financial struggle, the job switching, the cultural adjustment, but what sustained me and my family is our strong faith and trust to our Creator who provided us with inner strength and a winning attitude that our life’s breakthroughs are on the way and it did happen and still is happening up to the present time. Glory to God!

Life advice

I urge you my kababayans to love God, to love our families and to love our country with all our hearts and we will start seeing our inner transformation unfolding. We should appreciate our spouses and focus on loving our families despite our challenges and lastly, we should look to our country with a renewed hope, patriotism and nationalism. Our nation is great and will become greater one day, ultimately making us feel that with conviction.

We should be proud to be Filipinos and that someday soon we will go home for good and bring our world-class expertise and talents to be utilized in building our nation together through the help of God.

January 18, 2016
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