The search for the Dakilang Manggagawang Pilipino (DMP) sa UAE 2025 has reached its most exciting stage as 11 extraordinary Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) were named as grand finalists after an emotional deliberation round.
Traditionally, only 10 finalists are chosen. But this year, a tie in scores paved the way for one more inspiring story to be recognized—proof that resilience and sacrifice cannot simply be measured by numbers.
The finalists were judged based on the authenticity of their journeys, anchored on the four pillars of DMP: Dakila sa Pamilya, Dakila sa Trabaho, Dakila sa Komunidad, and Dakila sa Pananampalataya. They will now embark on the DMP Journey, a series of bonding activities in Dubai sponsored by Pinas Group of Companies, leading up to the Grand Finals where one winner will receive AED 20,000 worth of cash and vouchers and an Ambassadorship title.
The 11 Finalists
Liza Daus Plantado – Coffee Shop Supervisor, Proud Pangasinense
From a domestic helper without rest days to a licensed teacher, Liza’s journey is a powerful reminder that perseverance and faith can open doors. Despite losing her job during the pandemic and battling COVID-19, she managed to graduate in Psychology, become a supervisor, and continue serving the community through volunteer work.
Mariveth Coloma Kong – Sales Support Coordinator, Proud Zambaleño
Betrayed and scammed by someone she trusted, Mariveth lost everything she worked for. But instead of giving up, she chose kindness. She has spent years organizing outreach drives, distributing aid to labor camps, supporting distressed OFWs, and volunteering in medical missions. Her resilience is rooted in her deep faith.
Evelyn Manacdac Dela Cruz – Housemaid/Household Manager, Proud Ilocano from Isabela
For 16 years, Evelyn has worked as a domestic helper to raise three children on her own—two now graduates and one about to finish criminology. Beyond her family, she has donated pageant winnings to a child with cancer, cared for a stroke-stricken kababayan, and consistently extended help to those in need.
Winston Parandas – Document Controller, Proud Bacolodnon (Ilonggo)
With over 17 years in the Middle East, Winston built a career as a document controller while also teaching for free at the Filipino Institute in Abu Dhabi. He has sponsored the education of multiple nieces, nephews, and even non-relatives, proving that poverty is never a barrier to success. His advocacy: giving back through education.
Meriam Cortel – Sales Executive, Proud Bicolana
Once a hairstylist locked indoors with no days off, Meriam endured hardships that tested her spirit. Today, she works as a sales executive driving across the UAE, all while raising three children as a widow. She also volunteers as a cosmetology teacher under POLO-OWWA, empowering women to move from domestic work to salon careers.
Reina Denisse D. Regencia – Public School Teacher, Proud Quezonian
With 12 years of teaching in the UAE, Reina has risen as a Grade 3 lead teacher. She overcame discrimination and used it as motivation to excel. She is actively involved in outreach programs and mentoring aspiring teachers, showing how compassion and faith can transform challenges into triumphs.
Mark Gerald Candido Jore – Inclusion Specialist, Proud Capiznon
Leaving the Philippines at 21, Mark shifted from nursing to his true passion: teaching children with special needs. While working various side jobs, he pursued higher studies and is now an inclusion specialist who mentors other teachers. He remains active in community service, both in the UAE and the Philippines, and is known for his faith-driven dedication.
Marietta Cinco Bato – Material and Management Supervisor, Proud Waray
Working in Fujairah, Marietta admits that adapting to a new culture was never easy, but she embraced the challenges with humility. She thanks DMP and Pinas Cargo for recognizing the silent sacrifices of OFWs. Her nomination, she says, is a blessing she dedicates to God.
Chona Abrigo Fabian – Radiographer/Sonographer, Proud Laguneña
Eighteen years in the UAE, Chona has built a reputation as a trusted healthcare worker. Known for her kindness, she always carries extra snacks to share with cleaners and guards, and quietly offers financial help to those in need. For her, being a “dakilang manggagawa” is about choosing to be good every day.
Joselito Villegas “JD” Dizon – Senior Operations Executive, Proud Kapampangan
As the lone Filipino in his department at Etisalat, JD takes pride in representing the values of hard work and excellence. He has sponsored sporting events, guided his siblings through college, and embraced a deeper spiritual calling. For JD, being a great worker means lifting others while rising himself.
Kennibeth Cornelia Libiran – Senior Analyst, Proud Ilonggo
For more than a decade, Kennibeth has balanced the roles of analyst, community volunteer, and single parent to three children. She has been active in sports groups, Toastmasters, and support networks for abuse survivors. A convert to Islam, she says her faith and her children give her strength to rise after every fall.
Scoring and voting
The finalists’ fate will be determined by 60% judges’ scores and 40% online votes through the official Pinas Cargo Facebook Page. Supporters can vote by giving a heart reaction to their chosen finalist’s photo and following the set mechanics.
More than a title
Beyond the AED 20,000 prize, the Dakilang Manggagawang Pilipino title carries honor and responsibility. The Grand Winner will also serve as Ambassador of Pinas Group of Companies, representing the dignity and heroism of OFWs in the UAE.
