“we/our firm always reinventing OUR blog for the better.”
BLÖG 1: Angat ang husay ng Pinoy! Celebrating top Filipino engineers & architects in the Middle EasT
Ben-onie P. Barroga | Jan 21, 2025
Updated: May 2, 2025
The Middle East stands as a beacon of possibility, a place where bold dreams transform into extraordinary realities. Behind its iconic skyscrapers and advanced infrastructure, there lies a dedicated workforce of skilled professionals shaping the future.
Among them are Filipino engineers and architects, whose expertise and resilience have earned them a reputation as integral players in the region’s success story.
With millions of overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East, a lot has been taking on leadership, project management, design, and construction roles helping to propel the region’s transformation into a global hub of innovation and modernity. Through world-class skills, they have earned their place as key contributors to some of the region’s most ambitious projects, playing a vital role in its rapid urbanization.
His Excellency Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver underscored the contributions of Filipino professionals to the UAE’s development, strengthening the broader relationship between the two nations.
“Our engineers and architects were here when the first roads were paved, the first buildings constructed, the first bridges built, and in the process we have created bridges of friendship that have all greatly contributed to the UAE’s extraordinary success,” H.E. Ver said.
Commending their legacies, the Ambassador added: “Filipinos have firmly established a good foundation on which our current and next generations of professionals will continue to impress an enduring mark, as these are inscribed and are put to life by the UAE’s iconic and world-class structures, architectures, and skylines.”
Building a strong reputation
The legacy of Filipino architects and engineers extends far beyond the physical structures and landscapes they’ve helped built. They have also earned a strong and respected reputation for all Filipinos across the Middle East.
Atty. John Rio Bautista, Labor Attaché of the Migrant Workers Office – Dubai and the Northern Emirates, emphasized that aside from their professionalism, they have also paved the way for future generations to thrive in the industry.
“From the early Filipino pioneers in the region, a legacy of excellence in engineering and architecture was built — defined by hard work, reliability, and quality. Today, you continue to elevate this reputation as you demonstrate the capacity to bring bold, ambitious projects to life with precision and innovation,” said Labor Attaché Bautista.
Hon. Marford M. Angeles, Philippine Consul General of the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, said their contributions have also elevated the standard for excellence in the field, reinforcing the Filipino workforce’s global reputation.
“Filipino engineers and architects have consistently been at the forefront of significant projects that define the UAE’s progress, from state-of-the-art skyscrapers to sustainable urban developments. Your dedication and craftsmanship have earned you the trust and respect of your peers,” Consul General Angeles said. “Beyond the blueprints and structures, you have built a legacy of excellence that inspires the next generation of Filipino professionals to dream bigger and aim higher.”
Shaping Dubai’s future
Filipino engineers and architects have become the backbone of the UAE’s most iconic developments, their work symbolizing the country’s aspirations and global prominence.
In the heart of Dubai’s soaring skyline and bustling streets lies the legacy of a Filipino architect whose vision and expertise helped transform a desert landscape into one of the most iconic cities in the world. Architect Felino “Jun” Palafox played an instrumental role in Dubai’s urban development.
It was in 1977 when Palafox, then one of the youngest Filipino architects, took on the role of urban planner for the Municipality of Dubai, laying the groundwork for the city’s transformation into the modern metropolis it is today.
Tasked with creating the city’s architectural design guidelines and contributing to the city’s building codes, he led projects that would forever change the face of the emirate—growing into a global hub for business, tourism, and culture.
Innovation meets sustainability
A standout in Dubai’s iconic leisure and retail destinations, Marsa Al Seef owes much of its stunning design to Arch. Christine Espinosa-Erlanda, Associate Director at Godwin Austen Johnson and a two-time TFT Watchlist awardee. As a key member of the Masterplanning and design team, she helped transform this area into one of the city’s most sought-after spots, seamlessly blending modernity with the rich cultural heritage of Dubai.
Beyond her design expertise, Espinosa-Erlanda is a passionate advocate for sustainability in architecture. With a portfolio that spans across MENA region, her work exemplifies a commitment to both innovation and environmental responsibility. She has showcased her expertise in leading and delivering creative design solutions across diverse architectural projects. Her portfolio includes masterplans, hospitality, retail, residential, educational, and heritage developments in the Middle East and Asia. Notable projects include the Chedi Al Bait Boutique Hotel in Sharjah, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, the Retail District at Dubai Creek Harbour, as well as various hospitality and masterplan projects in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
With a constant embrace of innovation and a relentless pursuit of creative solutions, she consistently stays at the forefront, pushing boundaries and creating remarkable spaces.
Leaders in action
Beyond their professional accomplishments, Filipino engineers and architects in the UAE are also creating a community centered on networking, collaboration, and mentorship.
They have consistently organized seminars and workshops, as well as general membership meetings to facilitate continuous upskilling and discuss key developments in their fields. These initiatives are complemented by their close collaboration with regulatory organizations, including the coordination of Special Professional Licensure Examinations.
Key figures driving this movement include UAE chapter presidents Engr. Rafael Lontoc from the Institute of Electronics and Communications Engineers of the Philippines, also the Philippine Professional Organization chairman; Engr. Leif Marvin Valeros from the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines; Engr. Florencio Lopez, Jr. from the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers UAE Chapter.
Joining them are Engr. Sheryl Dela Peña from the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers; Engr. Marlon Hipolito from the Integrated Institute of Electrical Engineers; and Engr. Flordeliza Dinglasan from the Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers, who are also UAE chapter presidents, as well as Ar. Jonathan Gregorio, United Architects of the Philippines Abu Dhabi chapter president.
Through their dedication, they are creating a support system that empowers individuals while amplifying the collective impact of Filipinos in the industry.
Celebrating Filipino excellence
In honor of their outstanding contributions, The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Architects and Engineers in the Middle East Summit and Awards 2025 is set to recognize their hard work, leadership, and dedication.
For its third edition, the prestigious event will celebrate over 140 awardees selected from thousands of nominations across the region, acknowledging their achievements in areas like leadership, professional success, and community impact.
Scheduled for February 14, 2025, the event will be a dual celebration — featuring both a summit and an awards night. The summit will offer a platform for knowledge-sharing and inspiration, bringing together industry experts to empower the next generation of Filipino engineers and architects. Meanwhile, the awards night will be a celebration of the accomplishments of these trailblazing professionals.
Filipino People and Culture:
BLÖG 2: The Diverse Skills and Expertise of Filipino Professionals
Ben-onie P. Barroga | Apr 22, 2025
Updated: May 3, 2025
Filipino professionals significantly enhance the global workforce. Their unique blend of cultural attributes, strong work ethic, and adaptability make them invaluable assets. With exceptional English proficiency, technical expertise, and teamwork skills, they excel in diverse environments, driving innovation and productivity across industries.
Philippine Culture & Strong Work Ethic
Filipino professionals bring a rich cultural heritage that significantly influences their work. Their diverse backgrounds enhance collaboration and foster an inclusive environment, driving creativity and innovation.
This cultural diversity enables them to approach challenges with unique perspectives, leading to effective problem-solving across various industries. By leveraging their cultural attributes, Filipino professionals contribute to dynamic teams that thrive on innovation, making them invaluable assets in the global workforce.
Embracing this diversity enhances workplace dynamics and drives organizational success through fresh ideas and creative solutions.
Filipino professionals embody a remarkable work ethic characterized by dedication and commitment. Their ingrained values of diligence and perseverance drive them to exceed expectations consistently.
This unwavering commitment translates into enhanced productivity as these workers tackle challenges with resilience and determination.
Organizations that leverage the strengths of Filipino professionals’ benefit from increased efficiency, improved team dynamics, and a culture of accountability. By recognizing the impact of their work ethic, businesses can foster a motivated workforce that delivers exceptional results and contributes to long-term success.
Adaptability & Resilience and Communication Skills
Thriving in Challenges
Driven by their experiences with natural calamities, Filipino professionals show incredible flexibility and fortitude. These difficulties help one develop an attitude that welcomes change and seeks innovative solutions, enabling one to overcome obstacles.
Importance in Dynamic Environments
In fast-paced industries, the ability to flourish under adversity is invaluable. Filipino professionals leverage their adaptability to respond swiftly to shifting demands, ensuring organizations remain competitive in the global workforce.
Their resilience enhances team performance and cultivates a culture of perseverance and growth, driving success in dynamic environments.
English Proficiency
Filipino professionals stand out as powerful global communicators because they are proficient in English. Their excellent command of the language guarantees smooth contact with foreign customers and partners, promoting cooperation and understanding.
Cultural Dexterity
Filipinos demonstrate remarkable cultural dexterity, allowing them to navigate multicultural environments with ease. They bridge communication gaps by adapting their communication styles to suit diverse audiences.
This skill enhances teamwork and promotes inclusivity, making Filipino professionals invaluable assets in any organization aiming for global reach. Their ability to embrace cultural diversity enriches workplace dynamics and drives innovation and growth.
Teamwork & Collaboration AND Technical Expertise
Filipino professionals excel in teamwork, prioritizing relationships that enhance workplace dynamics. Their cultural attributes foster a collaborative spirit, enabling teams to work harmoniously toward common goals. This strong sense of community spirit creates a supportive environment where individuals feel valued and motivated.
Moreover, their exceptional communication skills facilitate open dialogue, ensuring that ideas flow freely and challenges are addressed collectively. By embracing these qualities, organizations can harness the resilience and adaptability of Filipino professionals, driving innovation and productivity within the global workforce.
STEM Education
A strong focus on STEM education helps Filipino professionals develop the necessary technical knowledge. Prioritizing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, Philippine colleges and universities help produce a generation of talented professionals equipped to meet challenging tasks.
Filipino professionals are great assets in the worldwide workforce as their solid educational background helps them to succeed in many different sectors.
Industry-Specific Skills
Filipino professionals consistently demonstrate their industry-specific skills in sectors like information technology, healthcare, engineering, and customer service. They drive innovation and efficiency and greatly impact data analytics, cybersecurity, software development, and IT overall.
Their nursing and medical technology knowledge helps the healthcare industry guarantee good patient treatment.
In engineering, Filipino experts highlight their technical mastery and problem-solving capacity by working on civil, mechanical, and electrical projects.
Their innate inclination for customer service also improves client contacts in many other sectors, raising satisfaction and loyalty.
Using their STEM education and industry-specific knowledge, Filipino professionals meet and often surpass the international standards of employers. In an increasingly complicated environment, their contributions are vital for advancing company objectives and creating competitive advantages.
Customer-Centric Approach AND Global Perspective
Service Orientation
Natural hospitality helps Filipino professionals to develop a service-oriented attitude. Their cultural value helps them prioritize client happiness, thereby guaranteeing first-rate customer service at every contact. Their sincere friendliness and attention to detail provide clients with unforgettable encounters.
Building Trust
Strong communication skills enable Filipino professionals to forge lasting relationships with clients. By actively listening and responding empathetically, they build trust and foster loyalty. This commitment to understanding client needs enhances service delivery and cultivates a collaborative environment that benefits both parties.
International Experience
Thanks in great part to their extensive international experience, Filipino professionals excel in the global workforce. The global diaspora of Filipinos exposes them to diverse work cultures, enhancing their adaptability and communication skills.
This unique background allows them to integrate into international teams, fostering collaboration and innovation seamlessly.
Bringing Global Insights
Their rich exposure to cultural diversity equips Filipino professionals with valuable perspectives that inspire effective teamwork. They bring technical expertise and a deep understanding of various markets, enabling organizations to navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
Tapping the Filipino Professional
Offshoring Office Jobs to the Philippines
Attracted to cost-effective talent and a skilled workforce, companies are increasingly relocating office jobs to the Philippines. The country boasts a strong pool of professionals with expertise in various fields, including IT, customer service, and finance.
Offshoring allows businesses to reduce operational costs significantly while maintaining high-quality output. The favorable business environment further enhances the appeal, providing a supportive framework for offshoring operations.
Why Partner with iSupport Worldwide
Partnering with iSupport Worldwide offers distinct advantages for offshoring solutions. Their expertise in managing remote teams ensures seamless integration and effective communication across borders. iSupport Worldwide is committed to delivering quality offshoring service while supporting Filipino professionals in their roles.
An offshoring partnership allows businesses to leverage Filipino workers’ strong work ethic, adaptability, and exceptional communication skills, ultimately driving productivity and success in a competitive global marketplace.
Let’s Recap
Filipino professionals bring a unique blend of skills and expertise that make them invaluable in the global job market.
Their strong work ethic, characterized by dedication and perseverance, drives productivity and fosters a culture of accountability. With exceptional communication skills and a commitment to teamwork, they excel in diverse environments, enhancing collaboration and innovation.
Their adaptability, shaped by experiences with challenges, enables them to thrive in dynamic settings. Additionally, their technical expertise, particularly in STEM fields, positions them as key contributors across various industries.
no shortage of filipino talents
BLÖG 3: Filipino talent all over the world
Ben-onie P. Barroga | Apr 30, 2025
Updated: May 4, 2025
IT AIN'T surprising that Filipinos had since conquered the international music scene. In fact, there is no shortage of Filipino talent in any genre - whether rock to hip hop. From Joe Bataan in the 60s to Bruno Mars in the millennial era, these world-class talents had defied the odds, and made a name for themselves in the industry. Since the turn of the decade, Filipino youngbloods continue to pave their way to the new era. Here's a rundown of some of the Filipino-blooded artists that you should know, and support.
beabadoobee
The Iloilo-native artist Beatrice Laus moved to London with her parents at the age of three. Currently 20 years old, Laus gained popularity in the worldwide indie scene as she used her stage name, beabadoobee. Since 2017, she has released four extended plays (EPs). This year, she gained mainstream success when her song "Coffee" was sampled in powfu's lo-fi hip hop hit "death bed (coffee for your head). This year, beabadoobee debuted her first studio album called "Fake It Flowers," which propelled her current alternative rock hit, "Care."
H.E.R.
Ah yes! It's her, H.E.R. (an acronym for Having Everything Revealed). Born as Gabriella Wilson, H.E.R. gained worldwide success with her 2017 single "Best Part," a duet with Canadian singer Daniel Caesar. This gave H.E.R. her (no pun intended) Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards in 2019. She got another Grammy nomination in 2020 for Record of the Year and Song of the Year for her 2019 hit "Hard Place." Good for H.E.R. (pun intended).
Joseph Barros of Peach Tree Rascal
Peach Tree Rascals, a US pop group composed of second-generation children of immigrants, has a Filipino member - Joseph Barros, the band's rapper-songwriter. Their 2019-released single "Mariposa" gained widespread popularity thanks to video-sharing platform TikTok. It has since become critically acclaimed by music critics. Barros, who is one of the composers of their smash hit, cited artists John Mayer, Alabama Shakes, Rex Orange County and Tyler the Creator as his musical influences.
Saweetie
Before Diamanté Quiava Valentin Harper became known as Saweetie, she began posting short raps on her Instagram account in 2016, from then on, she posted some of her songs on SoundCloud, which brought attention to record label producers. In 2019, Saweetie had her taste of mainstream success with "My Type," which eventually became a social media dance challenge. Saweetie, who traces her roots to her Filipino-Chinese mother and an African-American father, proved that a Filipina can shine in American hip hop music scene.
No Rome
Rome Gomez was born and raised in Manila to a musical family and began recording and releasing his own music at the age of 12. A singer, songwriter and producer, Gomez began using the No Rome moniker for his laid-back electronic pop songs in 2013, releasing his first EP, Fantasy, that same year. A second independent EP, Hurry Home & Rest, appeared in 2015, after which No Rome signed with London's Dirty Hit Records and has collaborated with different artists, including The 1975, AlunaGeorge, and fellow half-Filipinos beabadoobee and Jay Som.
Born with a silver mic
While Asians, in general, love their karaoke, Filipinos take it to an entirely different level.
In the Philippines, the karaoke machine has become a staple appliance for those who can afford it. Family bonding time on weekends? Karaoke. Friends arriving for an unexpected visit? Karaoke. Little Junjun wants to show Lola his hidden talent? Karaoke.
Those who don’t have a “Magic Sing” at home still won’t mind shelling out a few thousand pesos to visit a karaoke place or rent a portable machine for gatherings, because it is true that no Filipino party is complete without a karaoke showdown.
It doesn’t even matter what type of gathering it is. Whether it’s a birthday party or a funeral, expect an impassioned Tito to belt out a passable Air Supply ballad or a convincing Sinatra ditty. Since each family has its own “pambato” (champion), don’t be surprised that someone’s Tita has already queued her song code for a Whitney Houston belter without even looking at the karaoke song list.
Musician David DiMuzio, who has worked with numerous Filipino artists, noted that Filipinos take their karaoke seriously and mostly practice songs from powerful vocalists of the ‘70s and the ‘80s such as Bryan Adams, Michael Bolton and Whitney Houston, among others.
“Filipinos generally just gravitate towards that music, and that's the music that they practice singing again and again,” DiMuzio said in a YouTube video.
“Whatever you practice is what you become good at.” - BPBA
Vacant
TBA
Vacant
TBA
Vacant
TBA
VaCANT
TBA
Vacant
TBA