There are over 11 million Filipino expats or OFWs scattered in all parts of the globe that have for the most part assimilated beautifully into their adopted countries. They have successfully improved not only their quality of life but also that of their family back home. They have created a sensation in their chosen professions abroad and made the world sit up and notice. They make the Philippines proud. It is these Filipino expats and their triumphs abroad that are featured in Illuustrado Magazine on a regular basis. Contributors to the magazine focus on uplifting the image of Filipinos abroad and presenting world-class expatriates who are making a difference in their adopted countries. “Taas Noo, Pilipino” is the overall theme as the OFW success stories bid to raise the morale and image of the Filipino in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and the rest of the world. All to provide discerning readers a renewed sense of pride in their race.

1. Spotlight on Filipino Abroad Who Make Us Proud
By: Illustrado Magazine
The Illustrados formed the middle class during the Spanish period who could have
foreshadowed the Filipino expats of today. Think of Filipino heroes Jose Rizal, Marcelo
del Pilar, Graciano Lopez Jaena or Mariano Ponce as the early illustrados whose stay
abroad made their native land proud. They were the key figures in the growth of Filipino
nationalism and the fostering of pride in the Filipino race.
images: Wikipedia
In that sense, they live to this day and age. There are over 11 million Filipino expats or
OFWs scattered in all parts of the globe that have for the most part assimilated beautifully
into their adopted countries. They have successfully improved not only their quality of life
but also that of their family back home. They have created a sensation in their chosen
professions abroad and made the world sit up and notice. They make the Philippines
proud.

2. It is these Filipino expats and their triumphs abroad that are featured in Illuustrado
Magazine on a regular basis. Contributors to the magazine focus on uplifting the image of
Filipinos abroad and presenting world­class expatriates who are making a difference in
their adopted countries. “Taas Noo, Pilipino” is the overall theme as the OFW success
stories bid to raise the morale and image of the Filipino in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, the United
Arab Emirates and the rest of the world. All to provide discerning readers a renewed
sense of pride in their race.
image: www.pinoy­ofw.com
One example of the articles celebrated in the magazine is the story and accomplishments
of Michael Cinco. Michael Cinco is a Filipino fashion designer based in Dubai who has
worked with supermodels Tyra Banks and Naomi Campbell. His creations have been worn
by celebrities like Sofia Vergara, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga, Chris Brown, Fergie, Paris
Hilton, Dita Von Teese,Mischa Barton among others. His eco­couture collection was
featured in the America's Next Top Model. In the Philippine Fashion Week Holiday 2012,
he launched his scent Impalpable Dream, the latest fragrance of the Bench Designer
Scents Collection. Cinco's achievements have been recognized by the Asian Couture
Federation and in 2013 the title of “Asian Couturier Extraordinaire” was conferred upon
him.

3.
images: asianjournal.com
Another is Dr. Rosario Tigno, the first doctor from the Philippines to practice in the United
Arab Emirates. Filipinos in Dubai refer to her as a medical beacon within the Filipino
community and a doctor­at­large who is always on call whenever needed, exemplifying the
bravery, industry and zeal of the Filipino migrant. Tigno was born in Vigan, Ilocos Sur and
was able to fulfill her dream of becoming a doctor by obtaining her medical degree from
Manila Central University in 1972. She worked for four years in several hospitals in Iran
before going back to the Philippines and practicing medicine for more than 13 years. An
opportunity came for her to be able to work again in Dubai. In 1992, she gained the
distinction of being the first Filipino doctor to be issued a license by the Department of
Health and Medical Services of Dubai. Since then, she has devoted herself to helping
Filipinos there, especially the underprivileged.

4.
Working and living outside your home country can be one of the most exciting and
enriching experiences of your life, but also one of the most challenging. According to
government data, there are more than 11 million overseas Filipinos worldwide, which is
about 11 percent of the total population of the Philippines. Overseas Filipinos are typically
known to be as doctors, nurses, accountants, IT professionals, engineers and architects,
entertainers, technicians, teachers, military servicemen, students, and domestic helpers.
Illustrado is a unique lifestyle­community magazine published devoted to uplifting the
morale and spirit and image of these Filipinos anywhere in the world. It has put together an
A­1 team of contributing writers, photographers and artists spread across the Philippines,
the UAE, including Southeast Asia, the US and Europe ­­­ all of whom share the same
passion towards the OFWs and the Filipino diaspora.