Every dream begins with discipline. For some, it’s taught; for others, it’s earned through sleepless nights, double shifts, and sheer determination to rise above circumstance. For Mar Joseph M. Pagdanganan, that discipline was forged early—first in the bustling kitchens of Jollibee, then in the long, quiet hours as a security guard balancing work and school. Those were the days that shaped his work ethic, tested his resilience, and prepared him for a future he once only imagined.
Now 35, Mar Joseph serves as the Country HSE Lead for Saudi Arabia Delivery and Operations at Jacobs, one of the world’s leading professional services companies. It’s a role that carries immense responsibility—overseeing health, safety, and environmental programs across some of the Kingdom’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, including NEOM, Qiddiya, Diriyah, King Salman International Airport (KSIA), and King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD).
“I lead health, safety, and environmental efforts across some of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia,” he shared. “My role isn’t just about meeting standards—it’s about building a culture where safety is lived, not just followed.”
His story began far from the spotlight. The eldest of six children, Mar Joseph was raised by two role models who taught him the meaning of service and compassion—a retired military officer and a high school teacher. “From my father, I learned discipline and the courage to lead. From my mother, I inherited compassion and the belief that education can transform lives,” he said. Those values would anchor him for life.
He once dreamed of becoming a soldier, proudly joining PMA Bagwis Class of 2012. Life, however, led him elsewhere, but not away from the discipline and honor the academy instilled. “Though life led me down a different path, the values I learned as a cadet—courage, integrity, and loyalty—became the foundation of everything I’ve done since,” he said.
After finishing his Bachelor of Science in Criminology from the Philippine College of Science and Technology, he joined the safety profession. But to reach this point, he endured long years of sacrifice—juggling classes, guarding buildings, and serving fried chicken to support his studies. “I come from humble beginnings,” he said. “Working abroad wasn’t just a career move—it was a way to support those who depend on me.”
Serving with purpose and leading through faith
When Mar Joseph left the Philippines in 2015, he was just 25 years old, armed with courage and a deep sense of responsibility. His first overseas assignment was with NESMA in Saudi Arabia, where he managed safety for large-scale projects. That opportunity opened international doors and gave him a deeper understanding of the crucial role safety plays in every worker’s life.
“I wanted to challenge myself professionally—leading safety efforts on major international projects and learning from different cultures,” he explained. “But it was also a personal decision. I’m the eldest of six siblings, and I have a family of my own to support.”
Between 2019 and 2023, he served as Regional HSE Specialist for the GCC Interconnection Authority, overseeing HSEQ management across engineering, procurement, and construction projects valued at USD 1.1 billion, spanning Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait. That experience expanded his regional perspective and gave him the confidence to lead diverse teams in multicultural environments.
Then came his appointment at Jacobs, where he found a company that shared his values of integrity, innovation, and care. “What I appreciate most about my current role is the opportunity to make a real difference—every single day,” he said. “Jacobs empowers its people to lead with purpose, and that’s exactly what I strive to do.”
For him, safety is a calling—not a checklist. “It’s about more than compliance—it’s about care. It’s about making sure every worker goes home safely, every day,” he said. The highlight of his career came in 2025, when he received the RoSPA Gold Achievement Award from the UK, a recognition of his dedication to improving workplace safety. But even that accolade, he insists, is secondary to the lives he helps protect. “What means more to me is knowing that I’ve helped thousands of workers feel safer, more supported, and more valued.”
His mantra in life encapsulates the essence of his leadership: “Serve with purpose, walk in faith, and honor God in all I do.”
Faith, indeed, has been his steady compass. “Through it all, God became my source of strength. In moments of fear, loneliness, and uncertainty, I leaned on my faith,” he recalled. He credits his wife, children, and family for keeping him grounded during the toughest times abroad. “When I arrived here, I had to adapt to a new culture, prove myself, and face discrimination. But I didn’t let those define me. My family’s love and my faith in God kept me strong.”
Despite his demanding work schedule, Mar Joseph finds time for community. He founded the Unity Khobar Basketball League, one of the leading Filipino sports platforms in Saudi Arabia, to promote wellness and camaraderie. “It wasn’t just about basketball—it was about building community and creating a space where overseas Filipinos could feel at home,” he said.
He also serves as Assistant Regional Director for Safety and Health at the Search and Rescue Unit Foundation (SARUF), a volunteer organization in the Philippines that trains communities for emergency response and disaster preparedness. Beyond titles and responsibilities, his drive remains constant: to uplift others.
Inspiring the next generation of Filipino safety leaders
Mar Joseph’s vision extends far beyond Saudi Arabia. Even as he continues to lead high-profile projects, his eyes are set on giving back to his homeland. “After completing my overseas journey, one of my biggest goals is to help shape the future of health, safety, and environmental (HSE) education in the Philippines,” he said.
He is currently developing a proposal for a university-level HSE curriculum, aiming to establish a dedicated degree program for aspiring safety professionals. “I’ve seen firsthand how critical HSE is in protecting lives and building resilient workplaces, yet in our country, there’s still no dedicated program for this field,” he said. “I want to help create a pathway for future Filipino safety professionals to gain the knowledge, leadership skills, and global perspective they need to thrive.”
He also plans to mentor young professionals, support community safety initiatives, and work with academic institutions and government agencies to raise awareness of occupational health and safety. “Real impact begins when we lift others,” he emphasized.
His philosophy is simple yet profound: leadership is about service. “Leadership is not about titles—it’s about showing up with integrity, lifting others, and staying true to your values even when no one is watching,” he said. “My faith in God has been my anchor, and my family remains my greatest motivation.”
When asked what message he would give to his fellow overseas Filipinos, he doesn’t hesitate. “Keep going,” he said. “I know it’s not easy—being far from home, dealing with pressure, and sometimes loneliness—but remember, you’re not alone. God sees your sacrifices and your silent battles. Trust that He’s working behind the scenes.”
He offers practical advice, too. “Be wise with your finances, protect your peace, and choose relationships that uplift you. Build friendships with people who respect your journey and support your growth,” he said.
Life abroad has also blessed him with stability and time with family. His wife and children now live with him in Riyadh, where his kids study at the Second Philippine International School (SPIS). “Seeing them thrive in a safe and nurturing environment reminds me every day why I chose this path,” he shared.
Despite the demands of his work, he maintains balance through basketball and community engagement. “I’ve reconnected with my passion for sports. It keeps me grounded and reminds me of where I came from,” he said.
Looking back, he credits every challenge for shaping his character. “Every struggle has a purpose,” he reflected. “From working night shifts as a student to leading safety efforts on global projects, each chapter taught me something valuable—not just about the profession, but about life.”
As he continues to pursue his PhD in Management at Northwestern Samar State University, Mar Joseph’s pursuit of growth remains relentless. He also holds a Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health Practice (UK), a Master’s in Management from PCU Manila, and an Executive MBA in Industrial Safety Engineering and Environmental Management from NIBM Global, India—a reflection of his commitment to lifelong learning.
“True leaders never stop growing,” he said. And perhaps that’s what defines him best—not the titles, awards, or achievements, but the heart of a man who once dreamed of wearing a cadet’s uniform and ended up leading with faith, humility, and purpose.
He smiles as he looks toward the future. “It’s not about how far I’ve gone,” he said softly. “It’s about how many lives I’ve helped along the way.”
