For many, a career in architecture is about designing beautiful buildings and iconic skylines. But for Architect Jose Mari Valdez Vargas, or JM as most people know him, the journey has been much deeper—it’s about creating opportunities, touching lives, and turning struggles into purposeful ventures. At 40 years old, JM is not only an architect with nearly two decades of international experience, but also a businessman whose projects extend far beyond design, reaching into community service and purpose-driven leadership.
JM has spent 17 years working abroad, mostly in Dubai, where his career steadily flourished. Today, he wears many hats: Architect and founder of DSI Architects Contracting LLC, owner of Agimat Events & Management LLC, and visionary behind Agimat Restobar in the UAE. In the Philippines, he is also the founder of Angel’s Gate Memorial Garden in Moncada, Tarlac. Looking back, he says with conviction: “My success serves God’s purpose.”
From architect to entrepreneur with a higher purpose
JM’s story abroad began in 2008 when he moved to Dubai, driven by his belief that the UAE offered one of the most dynamic environments for architects. “I chose to pursue employment outside my home country because I believe Dubai, UAE offers some of the most dynamic and innovative architectural practices in the world,” he explains. “The city’s rapid development, iconic skyline, and commitment to cutting-edge design present a unique environment where I can grow professionally, sharpen my design skills, and learn from some of the best in the industry.”
His first role abroad was as a Consultant Architect, where he quickly learned to adapt to new standards and expectations. By 2010, he was promoted to Senior Architect. Over the years, his career path unfolded in a series of progressive roles—Interior Design Architect in 2013, Architect Engineer in 2015, and Project Architect in 2020. Each step strengthened his leadership and design abilities, giving him a well-rounded perspective on the profession.
“What I enjoy most is the entire process: from conceptualizing ideas on paper to seeing them rise in the real world,” he shares. “The most satisfying aspect of my work is witnessing a project completed exactly as envisioned, when every detail I designed is implemented on site. It’s a rewarding feeling to walk through a finished space and know that it began as just an idea.”
In 2022, JM decided to expand his role beyond architecture. He founded his own construction firm, and a year later established Angel’s Gate Memorial Garden in the Philippines. By 2024, he diversified into the food and beverage industry with the launch of Agimat Restobar, followed by Agimat Events & Management LLC in 2025. These ventures were not simply about business. They were born out of his desire to give back, particularly by providing jobs for unemployed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and even non-Filipinos in need.
“The highlight of my career so far has been the ability to transform from a practicing architect into a purpose-driven businessman, using my skills not only to build structures but also to build opportunities for others,” JM reflects.
Turning struggles into strength
While JM’s journey sounds inspiring today, it was far from smooth. His early days abroad were filled with challenges. “One of the first challenges I faced was during my very first job overseas, where I experienced not receiving a salary for three months,” he recalls. “I had to find ways to survive, and I did so by relying on my resourcefulness by buying and selling items on the side to support myself.”
Another defining moment came during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Like countless others, JM faced salary delays, pay cuts, and eventually, termination. But instead of giving up, he took it as a sign to reevaluate his path. “These moments tested my resilience and forced me to reevaluate my career path,” he says.
The struggles continued even after he started his construction business. With no funds for marketing, he had to rely heavily on referrals and word of mouth. “I struggled with gaining clients due to a lack of funds and limited marketing resources,” he explains. “Most of my early efforts relied heavily on referrals and personal connections.”
But the toughest trial of all came in April 2024, when JM suffered a stroke caused by stress and lack of rest. The diagnosis forced him to step back and reflect deeply. “During that time, I realized I had lost touch with my purpose and relationship with God,” he admits. His wife played a vital role in his recovery, encouraging him to focus on a healthier lifestyle and reconnect spiritually.
That period of crisis gave birth to a new purpose. He founded Agimat Restobar with the clear mission of helping others. Even the name carries meaning: “AGIMAT stands for Almighty God Is My Armor & Trust,” he explains. Within just three months, Agimat became one of Abu Dhabi’s most promising new nightclubs and the first Filipino-owned bar in the area. For JM, this wasn’t just about business success—it was about rediscovering his faith and using his platform to uplift others.
“Throughout all these challenges, I’ve leaned on my faith, my wife, and the purpose of helping others and especially jobless OFWs,” he says. “I now see every struggle as part of the preparation for a greater calling.”
A vision for the future rooted in faith and service
Even with his many achievements, JM looks ahead with bigger goals. Once his tenure abroad comes to a close, he envisions expanding his businesses and building ventures that create real impact. “My advocacy is centered on creating opportunities, not just jobs,” he shares. “I want to build a strong network that extends a helping hand to communities, including people from different nationalities and backgrounds who are in need.”
He is open to welcoming investors and partners who share the same vision of faith-driven entrepreneurship and compassion. For JM, every business venture must be aligned with service to others. “Ultimately, I aim to use my experiences and resources to inspire others, promote purpose-driven entrepreneurship, and create a legacy of compassion, support, and faith-driven leadership,” he says.
His advice to fellow Filipinos overseas is anchored in the values that carried him through his own struggles. “Always put God at the center of your life—whether it’s your relationships, your struggles, your finances, or your job,” he advises. “Stay positive. ‘Ang umaayaw ay hindi nagwawagi, at ang nagwawagi ay hindi umaayaw.’ Challenges will come, but perseverance and faith will carry you through. Trust that everything happens for a reason, as written in Jeremiah 29:11—‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
He also reminds his kababayans to be wise in choosing the people they trust, whether in matters of love, money, or work. “Focus on your goals, stay grounded, and don’t forget your purpose for being abroad,” he says. “And above all, be a blessing to others whenever you can—because the more we give, the more we receive.”
Looking back, JM emphasizes that true success is not measured only by personal gains, but by the impact made on others. “One thing I’ve learned through all my experiences abroad and in business is that success is not just about what you achieve, but about how many lives you impact along the way,” he reflects. “Hardships are not meant to break us, they are meant to shape us, prepare us, and redirect us toward a bigger purpose.”
