Working overseas often presents both immense challenges and remarkable opportunities. For many Filipinos, it’s a path that leads to new beginnings, career growth, and even the chance to build something meaningful from the ground up. Such was the case for Atty. Dexter Bordas Destajo and his wife, Janice Lino Destajo, who not only found success in their careers abroad but also formed a formidable business partnership.
In 2010, in the bustling city of Dubai, these two like-minded professionals crossed paths, leading to both a strong personal relationship and the eventual establishment of Livesync Accounting FZ LLC. Today, they are the power couple behind this thriving accounting outsourcing firm, serving clients across the UAE and beyond. Their shared journey is a blend of faith, hard work, and perseverance, built over years of professional and personal growth in a foreign land.
“We met in Dubai in 2010 and got married in 2012. Today, we are blessed with a 9-year-old son and have been running our own business for a decade now,” Dexter, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a practicing lawyer, with a tone of gratitude, shares with The Global Filipino Magazine.
Together, the couple has nurtured a company that stands as a testament to the capabilities of Filipino entrepreneurs abroad. Livesync Accounting, founded in 2014, now employs 40 qualified Filipino accountants and serves clients across the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Both Dexter and Janice bring years of expertise to the table. Dexter, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the University of San Carlos in Cebu City in 1999, passed the CPA Board in 2000. He later earned a degree in Law from the University of Cebu, passing the Philippine Bar in 2007. His first venture abroad was in 2009, with a visit visa sponsored by his brother.
“I originally wanted to take a break before setting up my law practice in the Philippines, but I received an offer to work as a Group Accounting Manager in a metal trading company here in Dubai,” he recalls.
Janice, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, followed her sister to the UAE in 2005.
“I came to help provide for my family. My sister was already here, and she sponsored my visit visa,” Janice says.
After working as an accountant in a hypermarket chain in Sharjah and an automotive company in Dubai, she eventually earned her MBA from the Geneva Business School in Switzerland in 2021. Today, she is the HR and Admin Director of their company, balancing her role as a businesswoman with her family life.
Running Livesync Accounting is no easy feat, but it is something the couple is deeply passionate about.
“It is a great blessing to be partners in life and in business,” Janice expresses. “We are happy to mentor young professional accountants and help fellow business owners run their businesses smoothly through our online accounting services.”
The satisfaction that comes from helping others thrive in their businesses is a key motivator for the couple.
Working abroad has opened doors for the Destasjos, offering them opportunities they might not have found in the Philippines.
“The UAE has a diverse workforce and provides great opportunities for professional growth, career advancement, and attractive compensation,” Dexter explains. Their experiences in the country played a significant role in their decision to set up their own accounting firm.
“Our UAE work experience has been invaluable in shaping Livesync Accounting,” he adds.
However, their journey was not without its struggles. Both Dexter and Janice faced numerous challenges when they first arrived in the UAE. “We went through several interviews and even had to change visas by traveling to Iran,” Dexter recounts.
Despite these hurdles, they were fortunate to have the support of their siblings who had already settled in the UAE. “Family is everything,” Janice emphasizes. “Now, our siblings have their own families here, and we all support one another.”
Faith has also played a vital role in their lives. As active members of The Lord’s Flock Catholic Charismatic Community and parishioners at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubai, they credit their spiritual community for keeping them grounded. “Being surrounded by people of faith has led us closer to God and taught us to be good stewards of our time, talents, and treasures,” shares Janice.
Looking ahead, the couple plans to continue expanding their accounting business both in the UAE and the Philippines. “We hope to explore other opportunities, such as real estate and agriculture,” Dexter says. Their vision extends beyond personal success, as they aim to continue mentoring and providing employment opportunities to their fellow Filipinos.
For their kababayans abroad, Dexter and Janice offer a piece of advice: “Working abroad is very challenging, but if we surrender our dreams to God and live according to His plan, things will be easier. Stay connected to Him and trust in His guidance.”