Some journeys begin with certainty, but for many, the road to success is paved with resilience, persistence, and unwavering faith. For Alberto T. Tampipi Jr., the path to where he stands today as the CEO of UNO Home Building Contracting LLC in Dubai was anything but straightforward. His story is one of grit, determination, and the courage to take risks in pursuit of a better future.
Arriving in Dubai in June 2013, Alberto started his career as a Draftsman despite being a registered Civil Engineer in the Philippines. “I knew I had the skills and qualifications, but sometimes, you have to take a step back to move forward,” he shares with The Global Filipino Magazine. His early years in Dubai were far from easy—moving from one company to another, enduring low salaries, delayed payments, and job instability. He worked for five different companies over nine years, but through it all, he never lost sight of his goal: to one day establish his own contracting company.
In June 2022, that goal became a reality. Alberto began the process of setting up UNO Home Building Contracting LLC, and by July 1, 2022, his company was officially operational. “It was a huge risk,” he admits. “But I had faith in myself and in everything I had learned from my struggles.” Today, he leads his own company, employing 74 staff—80% of whom are Filipinos—providing opportunities he once struggled to find.
Growing up in poverty, Alberto had big dreams despite the odds stacked against him. “At nine years old, I already knew I wanted to be an engineer,” he recalls. The fascination with construction fueled his passion, and he never allowed financial hardships to define his future. This unwavering determination saw him through years of challenges, both in the Philippines and abroad, ultimately shaping him into the entrepreneur he is today.
Alberto’s career spans more than a decade, beginning as a Project Engineer at RR Sagaray Engineering & Construction Supply in the Philippines before taking on various engineering roles in Dubai. His experience includes working for companies like Artisk Interior Design, Sarkars Interior Decorations LLC, Multi Build Construction, Lucky Fourteen Interior Decoration LLC, and Mackintosh Building Contracting LLC. Each role, despite its challenges, contributed to his professional growth. “Every company I worked for taught me something valuable,” he shares. “It prepared me for the day I would run my own business.”
His entrepreneurial journey is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a commitment to uplift others. Alberto is actively involved in mentoring aspiring engineers, offering guidance to those who wish to follow a similar path. He is also deeply engaged in community support, networking with fellow Filipinos, and even coaching basketball, fostering teamwork and camaraderie among his peers. “Success is not just about personal gain,” he emphasizes. “It’s about giving back, helping others rise, and creating opportunities.”
Alberto’s excellence has not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized twice by The Filipino Times Watchlist as one of the Top Filipino Engineers and Architects in the Middle East for 2024 and 2025. “Receiving these awards is humbling,” he says. “But more than the recognition, what truly matters is knowing that my work is making a difference.”
Beyond professional success, what he enjoys most is the fulfillment of seeing his clients happy. “Seeing the joy and satisfaction of clients when their homes are completed is incredibly rewarding,” he says. “Every project is not just about constructing buildings; it’s about turning dreams into reality.”
Despite the hurdles he faced, Alberto appreciates the opportunities that working abroad has provided. “Dubai has given me a chance to grow beyond what I thought was possible,” he says. “The city exposed me to global standards, advanced technologies, and a diverse work environment. It challenged me, shaped me, and ultimately, made me the entrepreneur I am today.”
However, his journey was not without struggles. The early years in Dubai were filled with uncertainty. “I moved from one company to another, hoping for better opportunities, but it was tough,” he shares. There were moments when he questioned whether leaving the Philippines was the right decision. But through faith and perseverance, he pushed forward.
His wife played a significant role in his journey. “She was my greatest support—through every hardship, every difficult decision, and every moment of doubt,” he shares. “Her unwavering belief in me kept me going.” He also credits his family, mentors, and friends for keeping him motivated. “No one succeeds alone,” he adds. “Having a support system makes all the difference.”
Looking ahead, Alberto has bigger aspirations. “I want to expand my business in the Philippines,” he reveals. “I want to introduce modern construction techniques, innovative designs, and create world-class infrastructures back home.” Beyond business, he hopes to empower young Filipino engineers by providing training and employment opportunities. “Many Filipinos leave the country for better prospects abroad, but if we can create more opportunities at home, maybe we can keep more families together.”
For aspiring overseas Filipino workers, Alberto offers valuable advice. “To my fellow kababayans who are struggling, know that you are not alone,” he says. “Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with perseverance, smart decisions, and faith, you can achieve your dreams.” He emphasizes the importance of financial wisdom, resilience, and building meaningful relationships. “Work hard, save wisely, always pray, and never stop learning,” he adds. “Your sacrifices will pay off, and one day, you’ll look back and be proud of how far you’ve come.”
