Some people spend their entire careers searching for a sense of purpose beyond financial stability. For Rowen Martinez Soldevilla, that purpose came through a combination of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Now a partner at Freedom Business Real Estate Consultancy, Rowen has spent the last 25 years abroad, carving out a career that not only sustains his family but also uplifts the lives of countless Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
Rowen’s journey started in 2000 when he made the life-changing decision to move to Muscat, Oman. His wife had been working there since 1998, and he knew that building a future together meant closing the distance between them. “The main reason I chose to work abroad was to be with my wife and build a better future for our family,” he shares with The Global Filipino Magazine. “I wanted us to be together, to raise our family as one, and to create opportunities that would provide a stable and secure life for our kids.”
Before working overseas, Rowen had already proven himself as an entrepreneur. He established a travel and tourism company specializing in airline ticketing, visa processing, and documentation services. However, the reality of being separated from his wife and their two young sons was too painful, so he made the bold decision to reunite with them in Oman. The move marked the beginning of a dynamic career shift that would later define his legacy.
Upon arriving in Muscat, Rowen joined Compaq Computers as an IT Specialist. His role in marketing and business development provided him with invaluable skills, but he wanted to do more for his fellow Filipinos. Recognizing the need for digital literacy among OFWs, he initiated a free computer training program at the former Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO, now Migrant Workers Office). “I wanted to equip our kababayans with essential skills,” he explains. “We were able to help almost 500 OFWs gain knowledge in Basic Computer and PC Assembly.”
Rowen’s passion for advocacy and storytelling eventually led him to journalism. In 2004, Danny Buenafe, the former EMEA Bureau Chief of ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel, recruited him to cover news and current affairs related to the Filipino community in Oman. It was in this field that Rowen found his true calling. “My work allowed me to tell powerful stories, advocate for OFWs, and connect people with the right resources to improve their lives,” he says. His ability to amplify the struggles and triumphs of OFWs quickly established him as a trusted voice in the community.
Among the many cases he covered, one that stands out is the plight of 27 Filipino fishermen who were illegally recruited by the Taiwanese fishing vessel M/V Dong Yi. These men were forced to work in the Atlantic Ocean for four years without pay. Rowen played a crucial role in their repatriation, ensuring that their unpaid wages were settled before they returned to the Philippines. “It was heartbreaking to see our fellow Filipinos being exploited, but it was fulfilling to help them get the justice they deserved,” he recalls.
His work also brought him face-to-face with life-threatening situations. Between 2010 and 2012, Rowen was often the first to respond when Filipino seafarers were rescued from Somali pirates in the Gulf of Aden. “It was a terrifying reality, but being there to document their release and assist them in their recovery made me realize the immense responsibility we have as journalists,” he shares.
Despite the dangers of his profession, Rowen remained committed to his mission of helping others. In 2022, he relocated to the United Arab Emirates, where he expanded his advocacy by co-founding The Filipino Correspondent Network, a digital news platform dedicated to covering community events and sharing inspiring stories of OFWs. Additionally, he established a real estate business in collaboration with the Frich Revolution community to provide financial literacy education to Filipinos preparing for retirement.
“Many OFWs return home after years abroad without a concrete plan,” he explains. “We need to equip them with the right resources so they can transition smoothly and enjoy financial stability in the Philippines.”
When asked what he enjoys most about his work, Rowen emphasizes the connections he makes and the impact he creates. “The most fulfilling part of my journalism career is witnessing problems get resolved because I was able to connect the right people,” he says. “Every problem solved brings a sense of fulfillment and happiness, reminding me why I am passionate about what I do.”
Being an OFW is not without its challenges, and Rowen knows this firsthand. “Balancing work and raising a family is never easy,” he admits. “But through it all, my faith has been my anchor. The God who created me is greater than any problem or obstacle I will ever encounter.” He also credits his wife and children for being his unwavering support system. “They are the wind beneath my wings. In difficult moments, we stand together, drawing strength from each other and remaining steadfast in our faith.”
Looking ahead, Rowen has no plans of slowing down. After working abroad for 25 years, his vision is to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of Filipinos. “I want to focus on advocacies that empower OFWs, help them transition back home successfully, and provide them with opportunities for growth,” he says. Expanding The Filipino Correspondent Network is one of his top priorities, as he believes in the power of storytelling to drive change. He also dreams of establishing programs that support returning OFWs through livelihood training, business mentorship, and financial literacy education.
Aside from professional endeavors, Rowen looks forward to spending more quality time with his family. “I want to give back to my community and possibly start new ventures that align with my passion for connecting people and making a difference,” he shares. “Whatever path I take, I want it to be one that continues to uplift others and create lasting impact.”
For fellow OFWs struggling abroad, Rowen offers valuable advice: “Challenges are part of the journey, but with perseverance, faith, and the right mindset, you can overcome them.” He emphasizes financial literacy, caution in choosing who to trust, and prioritizing health and self-growth. “Hindi habang buhay ay nasa abroad tayo,” he reminds. “Make sure your hard-earned money works for you.”
Above all, Rowen encourages every OFW to stay connected with the Filipino community. “When we lift each other up, we all grow stronger,” he says. “Our journey as OFWs is not just about survival—it’s about thriving, growing, and creating a meaningful life.”
