Illustrado Magazine – Filipino Abroad

Tag: Kabayan Middle East

Of Being Single, Kiwi Crates, and Cassava Cakes

By Dannabelle Gutierrez

I have been single for thirteen years. Let me say that again, in case you missed it, my singleness is thirteen years old. It’s funny, because there are actual humans of the same age who are getting into relationships and here I am, tap-tap-tapping away on a keyboard, sipping my tea. A few weeks ago, I was out to dinner with two very good friends of mine and their significant others. When youʼve been single for as long as I have, third-wheeling or fifth-wheeling is nothing new. What was particularly special about this certain dinner was that eight years ago, those particular friends were my “single-since-birth-I-did-not-even-realize-single-since-birth-was-still-a-thing-that-actually-happens” friends, not only that, but they were also the “older-than-me-but-still-single-which-makes-me-feel-like-itʼs-okay-to-be-single” friends, and now they are both in what seem to be very serious relationships. Four-years-ago-me would have viewed this as a tragedy. Four-years-ago-me would have taken this as a blow from the universe and would have questioned every single thing about her life. Back then, I would have cried and wondered at the very dramatic conclusion that I was the last single girl in the world.

Now? Well, now, I wonder why I ever cried about the fact that I am single. I mean, so I’m single, so what? It’s not like my life is filled with excruciating loneliness. I mean, sure, there were some low points that would have been more palatable if I had a hand to hold and there were some high points that certainly would have been higher, if not sweeter, had I been able to punctuate it with an exclamation mark smooch from my very own wild pogi lover boy – but whatever. I have been blessed with some very amazing friends who have been with me for the high’s and the low’s. Plus, lover or no lover, bad times are still going to be bad times and good times are still going to be good times and right now good or bad, I don’t seem to have very much at my disposal, as I am either working for the job that puts food on the table or working on a project that feeds my soul. I haven’t exactly been exerting myself to find a man and let all my single girls raise their hands up and say: “And neither should you have to! Amen!”

Of course, this is not to say that I have given up on the idea of meeting someone, no. I have not given up on the hope that someday, some guy is going to hold my hand through this absurdity that we call life. And yes, I have made many attempts at meeting men. There were Tinder attempts, and there were meeting-a-friend-of-a-friend attempts, I mean these aren’t very valiant efforts, but with my schedule, this is about as valiant as they are going to get. I mean on top of everything, a busy girl still needs to sleep, do her laundry, and you know, shop, and meet her friends.

Today was one of the very seldom moments that I am actually free enough to meet a friend for coffee to catch up. We decided to meet at a cafe in Deira at 4pm and since I had a few hours after church, I decided to do my groceries at Carrefour before meeting my friend. Now, let me tell you something about doing your groceries when you’re hungry — Don’t. Especially, when the supermarket happens to have special deals on everything, because you will eventually leave the store with a ten-dirham crate of kiwis, among many other things. And really, what are you going to do with a crate of kiwis?

I managed to finally get to the cafe ten minutes late, carrying two big environmental sacks of groceries, and frothing apologies to my friend for one, being late; and two, for being late and looking like a ‘Kabayan Kakanin’. Don’t act like you don’t know what I’m talking about. You see them all over the Dubai, carrying Carrefour bags with apologetic smiles offering you sinful ‘kakanin goods’ on the down low – the very ones who offer you those sweet delectable cassava cakes, and you know you shouldn’t, because you’re on a diet, but it’s ten dirhams, you argue with yourself, and you’re helping a kabayan out, so you give in to buying that glorious 2000-calorie goodness.

Anyway, after a few hours, a cup of coffee, a fruit cup, and lots of laughs later, my friend had to leave for another engagement, while I chose to stay and think about what I was going to write for this article. I mean, it’s about being single; the stories I could tell on this topic are endless. So there I was, staring off into the horizon, making ‘muni-muni’, and getting lost in my thoughts as most writers do, when lo and behold, a ‘Kabayan Kakanin’ comes by with his bags of temptation. And I know him, because I’ve bought from him before, so I smile and say “Kamusta, Kuya?”

“Ati, maglambing lang aku sa’yu, ati,” he said. ”Naku, Kuya, ang dami kong bitbit, saka na ako bibili sayo ha? Next time na lang,” I replied.

“Sigi na, ati, maglambing lang aku sayu,” he said again as he came closer and sat right next to me, “Ati, sigi na. Maglambing lang aku sayu. Akin na ang kamay mo.”

I’m thinking, What? Kamay ko? Baket? And before I could even think of how to respond to this in a way that wouldn’t offend him, he took my hand and started massaging it while saying, “Meron pu akung biko, suman, may tikuy pu, empanada…”

Mind you, at this point, I was still trying to bring myself back to reality after getting lost in my own thoughts of writing, so I’m looking at my hand and I’m looking at Kuya who was still massaging my hand and reciting the contents of his kakanin sack, “…bibingka, turun, may pichipichi. Sigi na ati, maglambing lang aku sayu, plehs.”

And I’m thinking, What? How? Who? What??? How did I manage to get myself in this very absurd and awkward situation? And how do I get out of it? I mean, I know I hoped for someone to hold my hand through this absurdity that we call life, but I don’t think this was exactly how I wanted it to go. Nope. Not like this, ‘plehs’, not like this. And so I did the only thing that seemed right, I resignedly said, “Okay sige na nga kuya, pabili na nga ng isang cassava cake.”

April 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
Have We Truly Closed the Gender Gap?

By Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes

The Philippines has always been proud to claim that our society is one of the most gender equal societies in the world. We are, according to the World Economic Forum 2015 Report on Global Gender Gap, among the Top 10 countries in the world that have the least gender disparity, a distinction we have had in the past five years. Our women are privileged with as much opportunities as men. They are as educated and literate as men. They have taken top roles in business and governmental institutions. That women can occupy leadership positions in the community with almost similar likelihood as men manifests our belief in the equality of sexes. Yet though the gap has been narrowed and arguably even closed, stereotypes and sex role obligations remain deeply entrenched. Have we, then, truly closed the gender gap?

Our society delegates certain behavioral standards for men and women from the confines of our homes to the immediate community and the state. Women are expected to be homemakers while men are the breadwinners of the family. Social patterns anticipate mothers lording over homes as budget planners and executors, meal supervisors, and performers of actual household chores. Everything on parenting from child rearing to school work and activities, and even the early intellectual development of a child becomes primarily mom’s domain as she is perceived as more caring and more nurturing, and has a greater ability to empathize than dad. Home aesthetics are acknowledged as within the purview of motherhood as it is more feminine to be attuned to beauty and order.

Dad, on the other hand, must bring home the bacon. Quite simply, his main task is to ensure food on the table and enough finances to pay the bills. In addition, carpentry, electricals, do-it-yourself repairs or any physical undertaking at the home is the manly thing to do. Consider scenes from films depicting dad busy tinkering with maintenance of the family car or doing his assigned outdoor chores and you get a fair picture of what we obligate men to do in the family.

On the community scale, women are preferred to take on certain positions in the organizational and corporate structure because of character traits of assigned to them. It is supposedly women’s fastidiousness that makes them ideal for tasks that necessitate combing through voluminous information. Because of their apparent ability to multitask better than men, executive assistants or secretaries are mostly women. When the task is about ensuring meticulous execution of plans, we prefer women. Men, as science theorizes, tend to see to see the bigger picture and are the better sex when it comes to building and managing systems, hence, leadership roles. They are physically larger and stronger and thus, it is more acceptable for them to do more physical tasks.

That women bear children while men don’t is, I believe, the most essential difference between the sexes. It is physiological. Apart from that, both men and women can take on character and personality traits we have hitherto assigned. Both can be nurturing parents. Both can take on physical roles at home and at work. Both can be tasked with administrative minutiae. Both can perform roles delegated to each other by society without fear of judgment. I will not argue with neurological science that upholds truths about how men’s and women’s brains are wired differently though I assert that both men and women can both be doting parents, can both multi-task, can both be emotional, and can both be strong and decisive leaders.

Only when we believe that there exists no divergence between males and females other than physiological can we, with conviction, truly close the gender gap. When we realize that there are no societal rules on how the masculine standard is to be less loving or caring or how it is feminine is to be less aggressive and more subservient can we fully embrace the tenet that men and women are equal. We can begin by ceasing to frown at dads who opt to stay home while mom is at work or by stopping to snicker at men who earn less than their spouses. We must cease scoffing at men who allow the ladies to dabble into physical repairs at home because they are better at it. We should dismiss the idea that a dad is henpecked because his wife makes the decisions in the family. We should get rid of the template roles fathers and mothers take on in the family. To consider alternatives to what men and women are predisposed to must not be scorned and met with disdain. Otherwise, the equal opportunities that our legislation has ensured for women and our celebration of the greater role of women in Philippine society is just lip service.

April 4, 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
I Won’t Be Home for Christmas

Excel V. Dyquiangco talks with those who occupations will keep them away from their families during the holiday season.

Sad but true. There are many occupations right now that require employees to work even during the holiday season. Call center agents, seafarers, flight attendants and pilots are just some of the people who work nonstop when everyone is just celebrating – and in very high spirits – during Christmas Day.

How do these people and their families then cope with each other’s absences? What do they do when homesickness or loneliness settles in?

Kristine Odessa Policarpio – Parungao (Call Center Team Leader)

8 Years in Service

The first Christmas Kristine spent away from her family was in 2004, her first year as an employee. Because she was single back then and it was a new experience for her, it was kind of exciting as she has never celebrated holidays without her relatives. “Basically, call center employees would bring their “handas” from home and eat together during our breaks or go partying after their shifts,” she says. “You would see some logging on their phones to call or send messages to their loved ones or simply greet the people stationed near them. For us, holidays were just an ordinary working day. We simply shrug off that lonely feeling and endure the 9-hour shift. You’re lucky if those days fall on your assigned days off.”

For Kristine, the Christmas Eve is the most challenging day to report for work. Imagine leaving your house in the middle of festivities, passing by empty roads or homes where you see merriment, envying people who are on vacation. “When I was promoted, I was able to spend one holiday out of office per year – either Christmas Off or New Year off,” she says.

“But this year will be totally different as I have my own family and with my son who just turned a year old. This would definitely be the most painful and tears would definitely flow. But at the end of the day, this is the profession that I chose. I marked the question: “Are you willing to work on holidays?” with a check upon my employment so I have no choice but to deal with it.”

Kristine says that what she would surely miss is to be able to greet, kiss and hug her family as the clock strikes 12 on Christmas Eve, but she remains optimistic, “But the holidays are just two out of the 365 days in a year. Some adjustments can always be made.”

Christian Mercado (Flight Steward / Cabin Crew)

Philippine Airlines, 11 Years in Service

December 20, 2008 is a date Christian can still remember clearly because not only would he be leaving for San Francisco, but he would also be leaving his family behind. This trip he considers a blessing since he would only be gone for five days but still, the longing is evident in his heart. “It was really hard for me to leave since it was my daughter’s first Christmas and I wasn’t be able to spend it with her,” he says. “It was a little sad, but I know I can still spend a lot of time with my family even after Christmas.”

So when the airplane finally landed in the USA, he decided to shop for gifts for his family. Later, he called his family at home to wish them well. When it was time to go back to the Philippines, it was already Christmas Eve. Up in the air, he celebrated the holidays with his co-workers and the rest of the cabin crew by having “Noche Buena” meals in the galley. At the same time, he and the others exchanged gifts.

As the nature of his work dictates, Christian has had to sometimes spend holidays away from his family. On some occasions, he has celebrated Christmas in another country with his friends.

“I am blessed that my wife and I have friends and relatives I can spend Christmas with while in the USA and Canada,” he says. “And I spend it the same way as I would here in the Philippines. Of course, things would even be much better if I am with my wife and my kids. We usually have a small gathering with our families, have dinner, and play game boards while waiting for Christmas so we can open our gifts!”

Does he have plans of shifting professions so he can spend time with his family during the holidays? “I love my job,” says Christian. “My wife was a former flight attendant and she understands. Most people work all week, with perhaps one or two days off over the weekend. Most receive one to two weeks of vacation per year. As a flight attendant, I have the ability to group my flights together in a given month, and have 1-2 weeks off every month! And that is in addition to my regular vacation time!”

Doz Rendon (Seafarer)

2 Years in Service

An on-the-job training during his third year in university prompted Doz to agree to being on board an international vessel for one year. He was gong to be traveling the course of Los Angeles, San Francisco, Ecuador, Chile, Panama Canal, Mexico and Seattle, Washington. When he learned of this work, he didn’t want to leave the country and his family since this was the first time he would be dispatched. They were all crying at the airport.

Over the course of the one year, it was aboard a vessel where Doz spent his birthday, Christmas and other events – alone for the first time.

“Christmas just breezed through since I was working in operations on a tanker ship during that day,” he says. “No celebrations or decorations since everything is just critical; anything may happen. It was only when we were done with work and we started to set sail that we had the time to celebrate and decorate for both Christmas and New Year.” When he saw his fellow comrades getting ready to leave the ship, he wanted to just go home with them. At night when all was silent and the work was done, he read the letters and the slum book given to him by his family and friends. “My mother gave me two devotional books during this season,” he says. “I also bought and brought several books. I just read and re-read it and surprised myself since I’m not a reader! But with the loneliness on board, there was nothing I could do but to engage in some form of leisure.”

His only form of communication with his family was purely through email – with a limit of 160 characters and which came in late since had to go through a satellite before reaching the respondents. His homesickness was relieved upon reaching the port; the he could call his family and greet them even though the holidays were already over.

He admits that the first three months on the ship was really difficult but as time passed, he got used to the routine.

This year Doz is setting sail again, this time around the country of Venezuela. He was hesitant at first when he learned of this journey since he would be spending Christmas away from his family again. But when he thought of their needs, he dutifully and joyfully accepted the mission. He already knew how he was going to make his time onboard another fruitful year.

Teofilo Padilla (Rig Physician)

1 Year in Service

Teofilo Padilla has been working as an offshore Rig Physician (an oil drilling doctor in the middle of the sea) in Saudi Arabia for a year now. He found his first Christmas in 2010 a whole new experience. “It’s really difficult to be in the offshore rigs where work is nonstop,” he says. “Christmas and New Year holidays are split by two relieving offshore doctors. One can get the Christmas holiday and the other, the New Year. Unfortunately that year I had to work for both holidays. I spent my Christmas on my rig and on the 28th of December, had to jump-ship to another rig to spend New Year there.”

He adds that the only way he coped with the loneliness of spending the holidays without his family was to keep the communication lines open. “Lucky enough, social networking is already available to keep myself in the loop with what’s happening at home,” he says. “Somehow, I’m updated online but the physical presence is different. Still, I was with my family in spirit.” Aside from his family, he misses preparing for Christmas in the Philippines. When decorations are already put up by September, he starts experimenting new recipes for the holidays. “I crave the native food, the fun, and the booze,” he says.

Unlike in the Philippines where the celebration starts as early as September and where Noche Buena hails the birth of Jesus Christ, Christmas at work offshore is just another regular day. The celebration starts during lunchtime on Christmas Day. No alcoholic drinks; no lively Christmas program or anything like that. There’s plenty of food, though, and kababayans share jokes and eat together.

“It’s a real sacrifice to work overseas,” he says. “The loneliness that I feel especially during the holidays often overwhelms me. There really is no place like home.”

January 10, 2016
Meet Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes, Dubai & the Northern Emirates

By Rav de Castro

Hon. Paul Raymund Cortez – Consul General, PCG Dubai & the Northern Emirates; Photo by Eros Goze

Hon. Paul Raymund Cortes, the Consul General of the Philippines in the United Arab Emirates, did not dream of working in the Foreign Service. In fact, as a graduate of Computer Science from the prestigious Ateneo de Manila University, he thought he would be working in the IT industry. It was not until he met some Foreign Service officers during an event in the early 90’s at the Department of Foreign Affairs that he considered living his life around the world serving his country.

Two decades later, having earned a Master’s Degree in Public Management from the University of the Philippines, taking the Foreign Service Officers’ and the Career Ministers’ Examinations and postings that have taken him and his family to live in Europe and in the USA, Consul General Cortes has become accustomed to a life of travel, wherever his job takes him.

He shares, “Life in the foreign service has opened my perspectives to a much wider scale. It has complemented my Jesuit foundation and made me a much more compassionate and humane soul. The DFA has been very good to me and my family. It has provided us opportunities we never would have come across if not for that brief moment at the DFA 21 years ago.”

Currently the highest ranking Philippine official responsible for Dubai and the Northern Emirates, Con Gen Cortes meets his new adventure in the Middle East with much aplomb, despite the emirates’ reputation as a challenging post owing to the size of the Filipino community here and the work that it entails. As Head of Post, he shares that his main priorities include – his work for the Filipino community, the effective management of the sizeable consulate personnel, and together with his family, being able to understand Islamic culture.

Hon. Con. Gen. Paul Raymund and Yasmin Cortez with family – Photo by Eros Goze

Fortunate to have a supportive family able to see the positives in a life of travel beyond the grueling process of packing and unpacking, Con Gen Cortes and his wife, Yasmin, implanted in their kids that moving from one country to another is not necessarily a process of uprooting; instead, it is a rare opportunity that shapes a human being — the exposure to many different cultures, languages, mindsets and perspectives. The couple is very grateful that they were able to guide their sons to view moving in an optimistic light. Thankfully, their sons are open—even eager—to reboot their lives in yet another new country.

His new home away from home

Moving to Dubai early this year, Con. Gen. Cortes has learned to love the city, and says, “Dubai is such a gem. Being here validates everything one has read about the city – the wealth, the glam, the lifestyle, the diversity, the rich international flavor of the place, the people, the opulence, the pomp, and of course, the heat!!“

What he and his family love most about Dubai though, other than its thriving atmosphere is the incredible spirit of community among Filipinos that makes it easy for them to feel like Dubai is really home. Con Gen Cortes enthuses,

“I have always been a social animal. I thrive on people gatherings and enjoy every bit of meeting and exchanging views with everyone. I have made it a point to be a very active player in community affairs in my previous postings and intend to be so in Dubai. I would like to be engaged with community affairs and be a part of the Filipinos’ lives in the UAE.”

Con. Gen. Cortes is proud of his heritage, and for him, being a Filipino abroad means being hardworking, adaptable, and flexible to take on any challenge. He takes pride in the work ethic and in the efficiency of Filipinos, and thinks that our sense of commitment to our professions is legendary. He also admires our sense of optimism that allows us to smile through the hard times, and more often than not, sing our hearts out no matter what problems there are.

He himself loves to sing. Like most, if not all, of Filipinos, he considers singing as his greatest passion. He shares,

“I have always been on stage singing for whoever and whatever occasion. Some have told me that as Consul General I should limit my singing but if this is what defines me as a person, then I take all I am as a person as factors that I must capitalize on to play the role of Consul General to the fullest. I cannot pretend to be someone else and expect to lead the Consulate and serve the Pinoy Community here effectively.”

Beyond being a Consul General and his passion for belting out tunes, his role as head of the family is of utmost importance. He says,

“I have always made it clear in my mind that I am first and foremost a husband and father to our 3 boys. This is my way of keeping myself grounded and preventing myself from floating to the cloud traps of authority and power.”

He also adds, “The title Consul General comes with utmost obligation as our community look to our office as the prime resolver of issues, the limitless source of hope, and the repository of answers to all their concerns, legal, consular, moral, and even financial. I am not dismissing this as an outright misperception but because I am the highest ranking government official in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, I take the role of everyone’s last resort seriously.”

Seeing the many faces of the world

Hon. Con. Gen. Paul Raymund and Yasmin Cortez with family – Photo by Eros Goze

Con. Gen. Cortes has seen the many faces of the world, and through his profession, he has learned some valuable lessons.

“We’ve seen the world and lived the lives of other people. It has made us realize that way beyond the political, economic, and geographical boundaries, we are simply all the same.”

He believes therefore, that as human beings, what’s important for us is to belong in a community that helps each of its members to grow and thrive, and be given support and guidance.

As the head of the Philippine Consulate in Dubai, he encourages everyone to extend their hands to lend him support so that he may perform his duties in the best way that he could.

“To my fellow Filipinos, I look forward to meeting many of you as I undertake my role as your Consul General here. I know there is much expectation and I extend my hand to everyone who wishes to lend their expertise, their thoughts, their opinions, and views, on how we could make our community here as vibrant and productive not only for the UAE community but also for our motherland.”

He humbly acknowledges that the Consulate does not know the answers to all of our questions, and that it may not have a ready solution to all of our problems. With that, he warmly invites everyone to be a part of the Consulate. He believes that everyone has a stake in the Consulate, and more importantly, our strength lies in our numbers.

September 22, 2015
Filipinos in Dubai: It’s What I Do

IRIS ABARABAR
Alterations Engineer – Emaar Properties
Dubai, UAE

What do you do for a living?

I am an architect, and I work in the customer care alterations department in a large real estate developer here in the UAE. I am involved in planning projects and site visits. I make sure that our projects are running smoothly and on schedule. I embrace my tasks so I can execute my job well, and I am lucky to work with a great team. My employer, Emaar, regularly provides us employees with trainings for personal and professional development, so we are always able to work effectively with each other.

Please describe your typical working day.

I deal with different types of people from different countries everyday. I make sure that I get all the job done in time, such as quality checks and solving client problems. I am also very proactive and I take ample time and effort to understand my clients issues so I can help them solve it better.

Please share with us an interesting story or anecdote, anything remarkable or uplifting that has happened to you on the job.

Being an architect is a very challenging career, and there are many highs and lows. There are a lot of things you must do, and with proper discipline, they can be done. I was hit by the global financial crisis back in 2008 where there were a few jobs available, and I was left with no choice but go back home. But I never gave up.

The most fulfilling part was when I was re-hired by my employer when they got their business goes back on track. Now, I have already built a strong network with clients, engineers, and contractors.

Your message to Filipinos out there.

The key to success in your career is having the willingness to step outside of your comfort zone. No matter where you are in your career, don’t get sluggish. Recover using your willpower and determination. The reason why most of us fail is because we give up too soon.

Always keep your career moving. Choose to lead and to inspire. The more you are able to do that, the more you will earn the trust of your employer and everyone around you.

Once you reach one of your goals, your journey is not over. You have to keep moving. Persevere, so that someday when you look back, you’ll say, “I’m glad I did,’ instead of “I wish I had.”

LEO VALLE BARRAMEDA
Travel & CRM Coordinator – ART DUBAI
Secretary – Philippine Business Council
Secretariat Head – Ateneo’s LSE program

What do you do for a living?

I am the executive assistant of H.H. Sheikha Maisa Al Qassimi, and I have held this position for more than 7 years now. I am also the new Travel and CRM Coordinator of Art Dubai Fair LLC, an events company that organizes and manages some of the biggest arts and design events in the UAE, such as Art Dubai, Design Days Dubai, and Downtown Design.

Please describe your typical working day.

A typical working day for me starts with thinking what to wear to work. Being part of an artsy-fartsy team encourages me to be creative on what I pull out from my closet.

Working directly with the VIP team, I usually start the day updating the database while drinking my daily dose of green tea. The rest of the day is spent on dealing with flight requests, matching hotel requirements, booking car transfers, applying for visas, and checking the Internet for deals and promos. I am maintaining three company email accounts; Outlook is my work buddy as we spend a lot of time together. Needless to say, receiving compliments and positive feedback are my inspiration to keep me going.

Please share with us an interesting story or anecdote, anything remarkable or uplifting that has happened to you on the job.

Being the only full-blooded Filipino in the team, I was very intimidated at first. On the contrary, I am warmly welcomed and now I feel my worth in the company. Glitches and challenges usually happen, but I always deal them with a smile. After all, Filipinos are known to be always happy, and I am proud to be one. I am also very lucky that I am part of a very diverse company.

I make sure that I pay it forward to the Filipino community in Dubai. I was appointed as Secretary of the Philippine Business Council here in Dubai, and I helped establish opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs to network and develop bilateral cooperation. I am also the Head Secretary of the Leadership and Social Entrepreneurship (LSE) Program organized by Ateneo de Manila University School of Government.

Your message to Filipinos out there.

According to Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Happiness is like perfume, you can’t pour it on others without getting a few drops on yourself.”

Always surround yourself with good people, the thinkers and the doers, and most of all, people who see your worth. I learned to associate myself with positive friends that helped me see my own greatness and find more joy in simple things. Don’t expect too much from people to avoid disappointment; be open-minded and wait for surprises.

How do I end my day?

With a big smile as I know I did my best and a breath of prayer for His greater glory.

DIANA SANTOS
Director of Business Development & Client Services
DiLeonardo International
Dubai, UAE

What do you do for a living?

I’m a Business Development professional, and I’m currently the Director of Business Development and Client Services for DiLeonardo International, an interior design firm.

I look after the business development and marketing efforts of the firm for the Middle East and South East Asia. This includes traveling for work, meeting clients, answering inquiries and providing proposals for potential interior design projects and organizing PR & marketing events.

Though I came from a different educational background (I’m a graduate of BS Economics), my nine-year stint in the design industry has honed and educated me in this thriving sector of the Middle East. Having the business background helps as well for my day-to-day operational business development and research requirement. It’s been an interesting journey so far and I do hope to continue on for many years to come within this field.

Please describe your typical working day.

My typical day starts with checking my emails the moment I wake up to see if there are urgent matters that need to be addressed immediately. Working in a multinational company, the sense of “staying connected” is stronger because we work with different talents across the globe.

I would then have my morning coffee and proceed with my client phone calls, researching on what’s on and what’s hot in the hotel, real estate, and design industry. Then I answer inquiries and do my proposals for potential projects. Then as soon as I find the time, I look into possible marketing and PR activities for the company. It’s an extensive scope – but I thrive and enjoy in diversity and pressure, especially when the end results are positive.

Please share with us an interesting story or anecdote, anything remarkable or uplifting that has happened to you on the job.

For any business development professional, the most uplifting moment is when you secure a commissioned project. And I had that moment a few weeks ago when we won a nice luxury resort project, and it was in my home country! The journey and the group effort that went into getting to that stage was just inspiring and the feeling of accomplishment when you’ve bagged the project is uplifting indeed! I guess you can say it’s the sense of victory that drives and motivates me to do what I do.

Your message to Filipinos out there.

Love what you do! It doesn’t matter if it’s not within your field, or not the ideal work that you would have wanted for yourself. The dedication and passion you put in to your work will reflect and eventually lead you to greater things and open up opportunities. The Filipino people are so talented and has so much to offer, and given the right frame of mind and opportunity, we can excel in whatever task we undertake.

September 8, 2015
Filipinos In Middle East: It’s What I Do

JUNE/JULY 2015 ISSUE

Joey Frank Ausan

Construction Manager (Consultant) at Louis Berger – Qatar

My job

I am a Civil Engineer, working abroad for 17 years now. Ten years in Saudi Arabia as an Area Engineer of Saudi Aramco, in Dhahran from 1987 to 1996. Meaning, I was there during the 1991 Gulf War. I am proud to be a Gulf War ‘veteran’. During the burning of Kuwait’s oil wells, I was there breathing the kerosene–like smell for months until the oil fires totally extinguished. During that period, each day after work, I involved myself in choir practices singing at the church fellowship services. Not only this, I sang at many community affairs as a soloist-lead singer and even in fund raising concerts.

From 1996 to 2007, after my stint in Saudi Arabia, I returned back to the Philippines and joined DMCI-Laing Construction joint venture during the construction of Rockwell Condominiums in Makati. After my stint at Rockwell, I went home to my province, Iloilo and managed our family-owned water purification business.

After staying in the Philippines, I returned abroad to work in Qatar. I am here for almost 8 years now and currently working as Construction Manager in Doha, Qatar’s Education City under Louis Berger. I am involved in the construction of Qatar’s National Library and sometimes relieve civil engineers at par my post at other projects of the Education City. Three years ago, I was involved in the construction of Qatar’s flagship project, The Pearl Qatar, as a Consulting Engineer. At the end of our project I was assigned as the Assistant to the CEO. Currently, as Consultant of the construction work, I review the drawings and technical submissions if they conform to plans and make further corrections for our contractor to implement. Other than supervising the contractor of our projects at site, I cover site inspections and preside over meetings. I handle directly a staff of various functions of different colors and creeds. It’s so challenging, that after the end of the day, our team should be able to reach our planned targets. Hence, my company can achieve its projects’ goals successfully.

After the rigorous, strenuous, and hectic construction work, I have to pause and do extra-curricular activities. I attend choir practices in preparation for the weekly mass of the Roman Catholic Church in Qatar. Sometimes, I sing as a soloist. Also, I joined Doha Singers, a community choir group which performs concerts twice a year.

Other than singing, since I was small, I also like to draw or sketch faces in so short a time, like 5 minutes only. My sketching skill (by drawing the face of the criminal) had helped government authorities in a country abroad resolved a crime. Later then, as my prize, I got promoted to a top post.

Career and Life Advice

My advice to my fellow Overseas Filipino Workers: Take care of your health always. Never abuse it. Before I returned back abroad and work in another country, Qatar, there was a gap – I stayed in the Philippines for 11 years. After settling down in Qatar, I was able to reach out again to my former friends whom I worked with in Saudi Arabia. Some friends told me that such familiar names are not anymore with them, they already died. And they recalled these friends have something in common, they were all chain smokers.

………………………

Eileen Guerra, MBA

Senior Sales Manager – City Seasons Al Hamra Hotel in UAE

My Job

I’m proud to say that I’m an hotelier by heart. My work in the hospitality industry revolves around corporate sales, operations, management and marketing, whereby I seek to maximize our client numbers from all sectors.

As a Senior Sales Manager, I’m responsible for bringing in guests and meeting revenue targets. Collaboration with the team, meeting with large groups such as associations, and networking, as well participating in exhibitions like the Arabian Travel Market, are all part of the job. Needless to say, having a thorough understanding of all the service our hotels offers is key, so are proactive revenue monitoring, review of sales activities as well as planning and forecasting with the support of my deputy General Manager Mr. Sodki. Not to be forgotten is after-sales-service and the continued building of rapport with clients as well as the rest of our team.

Working irregular and long hours on both weekdays and, sometimes, weekends is commonly required. Sometimes I have to work longer than the traditional 40-hour week to discuss and close a deal. With this pressure in generating sales, it is important to create and maintain a mutually beneficial relationship with clients that help clinch sales and lead to repeat and referral business.

With my experience as an hotelier I’ve found out that not everything has to be done immediately. Some things are more critical than others, like guest complaints. And in times of stress you have to be able to prioritize and follow through dedication. As Theodore Roosevelt put it, – “Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.”

Career and Life Advice

Love and enjoy your job and be wise with your finances, as this will impact your job performance, relationships and family life as an OFW. A supportive family, husband, mentors, and friends made such a difference in my situations. Without them, I would be unable to become a responsible adult and achieve my dream. Thanks to them and to God, today, I can say all of these things to other kababayans. The most important thing is to have faith in your dream and never give up. Don’t listen to what other people say. You are your own achievement. Be with people who inspire you and will lead you to all the divine connections. You have to be sensitive and be grateful of every single thing you have. Don’t stop learning and don’t be stagnant. Always be motivated in everything that you do.

……………………………………

Donna Fronda (VALENCIA)

Architect at Gensler – UAE

My Job

I am currently working as an architect for Gensler & Associates Abu Dhabi for two years now. Gensler is the number one architectural firm in ENR’s Top 500 – my dream Company I should say. I worked as an Architect since 1995 in Manila, where I worked for 9 years then I decided to work abroad here in Dubai last May 2004.

In Gensler, my position is an Interior Architect, mainly assigned in the Workplace Studio responsible for Interior Design Projects. As an architect concentrating on interior aspects, I am working for the technical part and concept design graphical presentation. I am involved also in space planning, supplier coordination, project documentation and production of interior/architectural working drawings using Revit and Autocad software. I can say that I am a well rounded person. Multi-tasking is my main forte, something I’ve been doing even in my previous. Working in a big company like Gensler is a big adjustment for me, because I need to limit myself to a certain task. The job is divided accordingly between architects and designers. Before, I used to work from A-Z because most companies I’ve worked with are small scale to medium scale companies. The task is different then as I needed to be a one-man Team. In Gensler, the task assigned is just the focal point you need to concentrate on and execute as given. Projects are all challenging like amusement, retail, commercial, workplace and tower building projects. From time to time, I am also assigned in the Architectural Department as my experience involves both architectural and interior aspects.

My Typical Work Day

Every day, I travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi to reach my office. My daily task here is very manageable. Each project I am assigned is carefully studied and analyzed for execution and production as per client requirements at a given time frame. When it comes to schedules, I see to it that projects will be delivered ahead of time. I never work over time; this is not my style. I work during normal office hours. But there are cases that I need to work on weekends due to demands of unexpected project submissions. This is acceptable and I need to be flexible at times especially if this is required by our clients. I always value time. I see to it that it is never wasted. And after work, I also need time for relaxation and to rejuvenate.

Career and Life Advice

I always believe that if you know what you want in your life, together with your strong determination and faith, there is nothing in this world you cannot achieve. Before I started working here in UAE, my aim was very simple. What I wanted before was just to work and practice my profession. I started working here at the age of 31, now I am 41 years old. Each year I passed here in this country, I have learned and realized so many things in life. Time is running fast; things will change quickly in a few years. So learn how to organize and plan your life as early as possible. Dream big. Aim high. And put God first in everything you do.

August 11, 2015
Filipino in UAE: It’s What I Do

May 2015 – It’s What I Do

Jowin Provido

Marketing and Events Executive
Emaar Malls, Dubai

My Job

I work as Marketing and Events Executive in one of the largest conglomerates in the Middle East and around the globe, Emaar Malls. My main task is to research and analyze marketing trends, identify target markets, plan thematic campaigns and develop strategies. I also manage the budget, as well as administer and evaluate the success of each campaign. My job demands long hours, especially in the lead up to a campaign launch, but the satisfaction after a successful campaign is enough reward in itself! I oversee several Emaar assets including Dubai Marina Mall and Dubai Marina Retail, Pier 7, Gold and Diamond Park, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai Retail and Community Centers in the Meadows, Springs, Greens and Arabian Ranches.

I always give my best effort on the job and sometimes it goes beyond marketing. Like for instance, I had this project launch at the Dubai Marina Mall and we were undermanned. So as not to delay the project, I ended up taking care of marketing, technical, security and housekeeping. At the end of the day it’s about getting the job done.

My work day

My typical day often starts with checking emails, afterwards writing a list of ‘things to do’ which I gradually work my way through – although the list tends to grow rapidly! Depending on the stage of the campaign, it will determine the duties but typically, my time is best spent outside the office, where I can be inspired to conceptualize and gather ideas, at the same time, observe the latest market trends!

Career advice

While we might think that we chose a life or career path, sometimes, life can change our plans and we might suddenly find that an opportunity has chosen us. I never imagined that I will be working in the Marketing industry, until the Creator led me into this profession, which in turn, opened my eyes to creativity and flared up my passion.

So, don’t be afraid to try new things! Be a risk taker, don’t quit! In this competitive part of the world, your determination and passion will mark you and your future.

…………………

Cristina Rita A. Casiple, CSCP

Global Sourcing/Category Manager
Eltek AS, APICS

My Job

I am currently Global Sourcing Manager (for batteries) for ELTEK, a Delta Group company,that deals in trading of telecom equipments with headquarters in Norway and regional offices all over the world. I am based in the regional office for MEA in Dubai.

I have been with the company for 9 years. I started in 2006 as Customer Support Representative – the only Filipino in the office for about two years. In 2011, I was promoted to Logistics Manager for Dubai reporting directly to the Managing Director. Because of the scope and complexities of my work, I became interested and fascinated with Supply Chain. Thus in 2013, I committed myself to taking the APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional exam in April of that year and became a Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP). In Jan 2015, I was promoted to Global Sourcing Manager (Battery). My role and responsibilities have now moved from regional to global/Corporate.

My job has also given me lots of opportunities to travel, meet new people and gain more confidence in speaking to and in front of many people. All in all, aside from being very challenging, going from regional to global, has been very rewarding.

My work day

A typical day would normally involve touching base with my boss based in Norway, either via email or SKYPE, coordinating and having meetings with different Corporate Departments, our various regional offices (also via SKYPE or video conferencing), and suppliers. It also mostly involves preparation of strategic plans, analysis of data, and doing trainings and presentations.

My new role has also taught me to be more flexible and to be available almost all the time as I am working with people of different nationalities and different time zones as well. My working days are either from Sundays to Thursdays or Mondays to Fridays and working hours from as early as 8AM to as late as 11PM. However, I make it a point that I always have a two day weekend – one day spent on chores as well as time with friends, and the other day is my ‘me time’ when I relax and recharge.

Career advice

If you want to succeed in anything and everything, you need to have three qualities – a positive attitude, a grateful heart and a love for what you do/for what you have. If you have these, they will reflect in everything you do, including your performance at work. And performance will always speak for itself. When you feel good about yourself and/or about what you do, everything else just flows smoothly. Everything just falls into place.

You have to be in a good place with yourself in order to feel confident that you can succeed. And when people feel that you are confident with yourself and what you do, they trust you more and have confidence in you too. This is when your success starts. And your success starts with you. With you believing in yourself, your capabilities, and believing that as a Filipino, you can.

And yes, we can. Yes, the Filipino can compete with the rest of the world, and succeed.

July 7, 2015