Castro (fifth from left) with the rest of the management and office staff in the UAE.

Mariecar Jara-Puyod, Senior Reporter

Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver has encouraged his countrymen, particularly in the economic sector, to help one another thrive.

Ver delivered an impromptu speech on the value of “bayanihan” (unity/cooperation/mindfulness) on Wednesday at the 10th anniversary of the 100 per cent Filipino-owned and managed Pinas Cargo, which, from a Dubai-based three-staff cargo forwarding company in 2014 has evolved into the diversified Pinas Group of four businesses, manned by 360 employees.

The enterprise, which 2005 visit visa holder/”green pasture” seeker Marlyn Flores Castro had envisioned, with the full guidance and support of fellow Couples for Christ-Handmaids of the Lord member Rumelyn Aribon, Human Resources/Marketing manager, is responsible for 15 scholars, six of whom are employees’ children.

Ver said: “Assist one another. Link and connect (with the Chambers of Commerce and Industries in the emirate where you want to set up your business/es) for all the necessary information and requirements. They would guide you for the smooth and seamless navigation. This will help you achieve your goals.”

“It is heartening that one company has (expanded). The signing of (Memoranda of Understanding with 34 merchant partners is a means to help one another). Magtulung-tulong tayo (Let us help each other) capture other markets. By doing so we (build each other up and become responsible businessmen and entrepreneurs). Let us use well all the opportunities. I see the success of one company and the success of many companies coming together and that is the better news for all us Filipinos.”

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Interviewed, Labour Attache in Dubai and the Northern Emirates John Rio Bautista who had earlier volunteered his excitement for the company pointed out that significant to the success is Castro’s leadership style and wisdom: “Many of our kababayans (countrymen) benefit not only through employment but through the (corporate social responsibility). We extend our assistance in ensuring the best terms for its Filipino workforce and will facilitate the documentation of workers including those from the Philippines.”

In her address, Castro repeatedly stated God’s complete sovereignty and control. She also placed high regards to Aribon: “I come, from let us say, the poorest of families; but, that did not stop me.”

Earlier email interviewed, she said the scholarship programme is close to her heart as she had toiled and to some extent pursued scholarship initiatives to earn her Bachelor of Business Administration Major in Finance and Management Accounting in her Central Luzon home province of Pampanga: “It is important that our scholars are determined in completing their studies. Perseverance is a trait we all must possess.”

Nine of the scholars – recipients of elementary to university financial support – conveyed their utmost gratitude through a video clip. Two of the 15 are already graduates. One of them is ICS College of Marikina Batch 2023 BS in Business Administration Major in Human Resources Management holder Christina Guimalig.

The other scholars are Angelo Alicbay, Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminology, fourth year, Isabela State University; Khayan G. Gialon, Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Science, sophomore, Mabalacat City College; Jimthon Sasota, BS in Computer Engineering, sophomore, Libon Community College-Albay (LCC-Albay); Axcel Pelonia, BS in Agribusiness, freshman, LCC-Albay; Stephanie Ann Caro, BS in Biology, third year, LCC-Albay); Migs Alvin Caraecle, Mindanao State University-IIT Integrated Developmental School, Year 11; Sophia Bianca Losito, BS Nursing, freshman, Our Lady of Fatima University; and, Marvin Joshua Garcia, BS Criminology, third year, Holy Angel University.

Six of the 360 employees expressed their gratitude for their career advancement. They are Floresa Denso, Customer Service staff to Satwa Office in-charge; Cresilda Avenido, Marketing assistant to Rigga Office in-charge in the soon-to-open Qatar branch; Stephanie Tiu, Customer Service staff to Logistics coordinator; Merlyn Camo, Customer Service staff to Abu Dhabi Office in-charge; Beniedick Natividad, Pinas Cargo Customer Service to PInas Travel Marketing executive; and Marifesa Mariano, Customer Service supervisor to Team supervisor.