Most people go abroad with a clear plan—work hard, send money home, and keep life simple. Elyson Armado didn’t expect that somewhere between hospital supply deliveries and long workdays in Saudi Arabia, he would also find himself stepping into commercial sets, hosting stages, and eventually appearing in a viral campaign seen by millions.
At 38, Elyson has spent the last 14 years in the Kingdom building a steady career as a Marketing Specialist at Abdulrehman Algosaibi GTC. But beyond his corporate job, he has quietly carved out a growing presence in the entertainment and media scene—an unexpected side journey that began not with fame, but with community.
A decision rooted in family
Elyson describes himself as “the eldest among four siblings,” a role that shaped his mindset early. Born in Pasig City and now based in Cavite, he grew up carrying responsibilities that naturally influenced the way he approached adulthood.
“I decided to work in Saudi Arabia to help support my mother and provide for my family’s needs,” he shared with TGFM.
He came to the Kingdom armed with a degree in Business Administration major in Marketing Management, and a clear understanding of what he needed to do: work, provide, and stay consistent. His academic background, he said, helped him develop “strong communication, strategic thinking, and people engagement skills,” which later became essential in both his corporate and creative pursuits.
Life in healthcare marketing
In Saudi Arabia, Elyson’s full-time role isn’t the type that comes with glamorous stories—but it’s one that demands precision and trust.
@flowardco سفراء المحبة هم اللي يعطون بدون مقابل، يمكن يكون صديقك، جارك، أو شخص ما قدر يحتفل مع أسرته، لكن يعطي من قلبه ويشارك الآخرين احتفالهم. منشن سفراء المحبة بحياتك .. وقل لهم: شكرًا #من_القلب ♬ original sound – Floward
“As a Marketing Specialist, I handle the supply and distribution of medical supplies and equipment to hospitals across the Kingdom,” he explained.
His work includes client coordination, sales management, and building relationships across the healthcare sector. It’s a demanding environment, and the stakes are real—medical solutions affect lives. Over time, the job shaped his confidence as a professional, strengthening his leadership skills and sharpening his decision-making.
“It also gave me a deeper understanding of the healthcare industry and the importance of delivering quality medical solutions that directly impact people’s lives,” he said.
It’s the kind of career many OFWs would consider more than enough. But for Elyson, something else was quietly unfolding.
From community events to commercial sets
His entry into entertainment didn’t begin with auditions or big agencies. It started with singing competitions.
“My journey into the entertainment industry started when I joined singing competitions in the Kingdom,” he said.
Those events introduced him to Filipino community organizations, where he became active and involved. At first, he wasn’t on stage as talent—he was behind the scenes, working as an event photographer. That role gave him a deeper appreciation of production work and eventually opened doors to larger opportunities.
Then came his first experience on a professional film set.
Working as an extra in an international film project was exciting, but not easy. Elyson remembers the long waiting hours, and how it tested his discipline.
“It taught me patience and professionalism,” he said. “It also gave me a deeper appreciation for the hard work and dedication of everyone behind the scenes.”
The Floward commercial that changed everything
His biggest break came through an unexpected invitation.
“I was invited by a friend who works as a casting manager to submit a video of myself acting as a waiter,” Elyson recalled.
He didn’t think much of it. In fact, he didn’t even expect to pass.
“I didn’t expect to pass the audition,” he admitted.
But the call came while he was on vacation—and suddenly, he was being asked to fly to Egypt for a commercial shoot. What shocked him more was learning he wasn’t just cast. He was chosen as the lead.
“I was surprised to learn that I was the only Filipino who passed the audition,” he said. “It was truly an unexpected blessing.”
That project turned into Floward’s Valentine’s campaign, which later reached 34 million views on TikTok. The scale of its impact was something Elyson never imagined.
“I felt humbled and proud at the same time,” he said. “Reading supportive comments from fellow Filipinos motivated me even more.”
Finding his voice on stage
Even after the viral success, Elyson remains grounded. He continues to organize and co-direct community events, including singing and dance competitions, and has also built confidence as a host.
He admits it wasn’t always natural.
“As a host, I initially struggled with nervousness,” he said.
But with time, he learned that the best way to connect is simply to be authentic.
“I gained confidence by simply being myself and enjoying genuine conversations with people,” he shared.
For Elyson, hosting isn’t about spotlight chasing—it’s about connection.
“What I love most about hosting is the connection—engaging with the audience, creating energy in the room, and being part of memorable moments for the community,” he said.
And perhaps that’s what defines his story best: a Filipino abroad who didn’t just survive the grind, but found a way to grow beyond it—one unexpected opportunity at a time.
