Edwin Cabanero Duria has carved a remarkable niche for himself in the bustling business landscape of Dubai. Currently serving as the Managing Director of Play Middle East Business Consultancy FZE, Chairman of the Philippine Business Council – Dubai & Northern Emirates, and Director Consultant at BNI New Dubai, Edwin exemplifies leadership and community spirit. His journey from the Philippines to the UAE, marked by significant professional milestones, highlights his resilience and dedication.
Edwin’s professional journey began in the Philippines, where he worked with Earth and Style Group, owned by the Ng Family, who also own Rebisco and Asia United Bank. As the youngest manager of their property developer company, he was the Head of International Sales from 2004 to 2009.
“I was consistently promoted every six months because of my overall performance,” Edwin shares with The Global Filipino Magazine.
In 2009, Edwin moved to Dubai, initially planning to return to the Philippines after his wife gave birth. However, his wife requested they stay in Dubai to start their family in a safer environment with unlimited opportunities. This decision marked the beginning of Edwin’s international career.
Edwin’s first job in Dubai was as a Group Manager of a Facility Management Company, overseeing cleaning, moving, maintenance, and technical works. He then moved to a Business Set-Up Company, where he spent five years as the Head of Business Development. In 2015, after his boss left the UAE, Edwin decided to establish his own company.
“I set up my business over a cup of coffee with my BNI business colleague and with the help of one of my referral partners who provided me work and funds to start,” he explains.
Today, Edwin manages almost 300 clients, including major companies like Samsung, Pearson Education, and JCB Bamford Excavators. His consultancy helps individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of the UAE’s business environment, offering guidance on proper activities and suitable jurisdictions.
Edwin’s outstanding contributions were recognized when he was awarded BNI UAE New Dubai Director Consultant of the year for two consecutive years. Additionally, he received the BNI Global Hall of Fame Award at the BNI Global Convention 2023 held in Madrid, Spain.
Community involvement
Beyond his professional achievements, Edwin is deeply involved in various community initiatives. As Chairman of the Philippine Business Council Dubai & Northern Emirates since 2015, he has played a pivotal role in mentoring and creating opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs and professionals. He also serves as a Director Consultant for BNI UAE, where he focuses on business mentoring and fostering collaborations.
Edwin is also a member and sponsor of UAE Mountain Biking, a member of the DXB Heroes Elite Eagles Club, and a leader/member of Couples For Christ. He served as a Eucharistic Minister of Holy Communion at St. Mary’s Church Dubai from 2019 to 2024 and continues to mentor businesses through Jupiter Business Mentor.
Like many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), Edwin faced numerous challenges.
“We experienced looking for someone to lend us money on New Year’s Night because our cheque was due on January 1st,” he shares.
A friend from Sharjah, a member of their community, came to their aid, underscoring the importance of a supportive network.
Transitioning from an employee to an entrepreneur was another significant challenge.
“We lost the end-of-service benefits and were scared of what the future held. But because of the business community I have, I overcame that struggle through their proper guidance over a cup of coffee,” Edwin reflects.
Enjoying and embracing the present
Edwin finds immense satisfaction in helping others succeed.
“Helping individuals and companies with proper information and identifying the right jurisdictions for them to operate is very fulfilling,” he says.
His passion for mentoring and creating connections is evident in his roles at the Philippine Business Council and BNI.
Looking ahead, Edwin plans to retire early but intends to stay in Dubai and travel extensively with his family.
“I will probably go back to the Philippines once in a while to see family members,” he says.
For fellow Filipinos struggling abroad, Edwin’s advice is clear: “Join any community where you think you belong. Through these communities, you multiply your chances of growing and achieving your dreams. It’s okay to treat yourself because you work hard, but make sure you manage your finances properly.”
Edwin also emphasizes the role of the Philippine Business Council in supporting Filipino entrepreneurs.
“PBC Dubai is a nearly 30-year-old group where Filipino entrepreneurs excel through networking, collaboration, education, and training,” he notes.
He invites Filipino entrepreneurs and professionals to join this thriving community to grow, learn, and mentor others. Those who wish to join can email him at membership@pbc-dne.com.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 12 of The Global Filipino Magazine. If you have a unique life story or know someone who does, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at eic@theglobalfilipinomagazine.com. If you’re interested in obtaining a print copy of the magazine, please contact Mr. JP Cosico at +971 54 482 0661.