Alliver Bareo Revilla, currently serving as the Department Lead at the Qatar International Safety Center, unveils his captivating journey from starting out as a maintenance electrical technician in the Philippines to becoming a key figure in the construction and oil and gas sectors abroad.
A champion of safety, community development, and environmental sustainability, Revilla shares nuggets of wisdom garnered from his 16 years of enriching overseas experiences.
A driving force behind Alliver Revilla’s overseas odyssey was the desire to provide better opportunities for his family, seeking enhanced quality of life and financial stability. Revilla embarked on his journey abroad in 2007, securing a position as a site supervisor focused on scaffolding discipline in the Goro Nickel project, New Caledonia, France. The first venture laid a robust foundation for what would become a fulfilling career punctuated with the noble purpose of safeguarding lives.
Embracing his role as the Head of the Department for Safety and Technical Training, Revilla has been keen on nurturing safety standards in the industry.
“Each training session I deliver, every module I develop, and all the meticulous oversight I provide directly contribute to enhancing safety standards and practices within the sector. Knowing that the knowledge and skills I impart to professionals can potentially save lives and prevent accidents is gratifying,” shares Revilla, a stalwart believer in embracing the journey and not just the destination, as mirrored in his life mantra.
The dynamic nature of the oil and gas industries continually drives Revilla to innovate, evolve, and adapt, making every day a learning experience.
“My work isn’t just a job but a purpose-driven journey aligning with my values and aspirations,” he shares with The Global Filipino Magazine, highlighting the satisfaction derived from contributing positively to the sector’s growth and sustainability.
Life abroad has been a rich tapestry of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and memorable encounters for Revilla.
“Working overseas offers unique experiences and opportunities that I find enriching and transformative. It’s a journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and the creation of lasting memories that shape my career and worldview,” Revilla notes, emphasizing the deep understanding and open-mindedness fostered through interactions with diverse perspectives.
However, the path was not devoid of challenges. From grappling with homesickness to overcoming language barriers, Revilla faced numerous hurdles. It was the unyielding determination and the guidance from mentors and colleagues who had navigated similar paths that saw him through trying times.
“Each battle I faced became a stepping stone in my journey towards settling and thriving in a new environment, ultimately shaping me into a more adaptable and resilient individual,” he reflects.
Beyond professional obligations, he dedicated time to community enhancement initiatives through the Guardian’s Brotherhood organization. His commitment to environmental sustainability has been a guiding light in recent undertakings, speaking volumes about his altruistic spirit.
As Revilla envisages the future, he aspires to leverage his rich experiences to contribute meaningfully to the Philippines’ progress. Keen on fostering safety consciousness and skill development in the country’s construction and oil sectors, Revilla contemplates collaborations with local organizations and government bodies.
Further nurturing his passion for environmental sustainability, he intends to spearhead advocacy projects to promote eco-friendliness and cleaner urban spaces in collaboration with local communities and organizations.
Revilla shares, “Collaborating with local communities and organizations, I aspire to drive positive change through initiatives that align with these values.”
To his fellow kabayans weathering challenges abroad, Revilla extends heartfelt advice drawn from personal experiences. Stressing the importance of community and financial prudence, he encourages others to reach out to fellow Filipinos for support and manage finances wisely. On the professional front, he advocates for continuous learning and adaptability to stand out in the competitive job market.
Revilla accentuates the significance of self-care, urging individuals to find joy in hobbies and stay connected with loved ones.
“Draw strength from your roots and your innate capacity to overcome challenges. Each struggle is an opportunity for growth, and with determination and the support of your kabayan community, you can navigate these hurdles and emerge stronger and more empowered than before,” Revilla shares, encapsulating the indomitable spirit of the Filipino community abroad.
As the interview winds down, Revilla brings to fore the quintessential virtues of cultural sensitivity and open-mindedness when living abroad. He insists on the importance of understanding and respecting the norms, values, and practices of different cultures for smooth integration and fostering meaningful relationships.
“Learning about local traditions, customs, and social etiquette demonstrates respect and facilitates better communication and collaboration,” he notes, advocating for a learning spirit ready to absorb the richness offered by diverse cultures.
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This article has been published in Volume 4, Issue 5 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.
