A dynamic force in the real estate industry, Louiegi Aldrin Castillo, widely known as L.A. Castillo, currently holds the prestigious position of Senior Director of Sales at JPDC. He has established himself as a prominent international entrepreneur, demonstrating the power of resilience, determination, and faith throughout his journey.
L.A.’s professional journey began in the Philippines, where he developed extensive expertise in the real estate industry. His current role involves working with a pioneering real estate developer in Manila, offering high-quality properties at affordable prices without compromising on quality.
“Alongside my role as a Senior Director in the real estate industry, I also confidently run a successful business called Eastbound Properties & Management,” L.A. shares with The Global Filipino Magazine.
This company provides a comprehensive range of services, including construction, renovations, furnishing, property management, and sales, with a particular focus on the Manila and UAE markets.
L.A.’s foray into the international arena began five years ago when he chose to work abroad.
“I wanted to expand my professional and personal growth while experiencing a new culture,” he explains.
This decision opened up new opportunities and presented challenges that allowed him to learn and grow significantly.
Previous roles and entrepreneurial ventures
Before his current position, L.A. served as an International Sales Director in the UAE’s real estate industry. This role not only showcased the potential of working abroad but also inspired him to establish a small real estate startup in Dubai.
“My experience in Dubai was inspiring, and it encouraged me to establish my own small Real Estate startup in the UAE,” he says.
This entrepreneurial venture has been a fantastic experience, allowing him to explore his passions and expand his business acumen.
In 2023, L.A. returned to the Philippines at the invitation of a friend in the real estate industry. He joined as a Senior Sales Director to start a larger real estate company while continuing to run his entrepreneurial venture in the UAE.
“The chance to work in different places and pursue my passions has been a fulfilling journey,” L.A. reflects.
L.A.’s passion for real estate is evident in his enthusiasm for his work.
“I had the incredible opportunity to work as an International Sales Director in the Real Estate industry, and while it was challenging at first, it was also incredibly exciting,” he recounts.
The freedom to manage his own time and travel while pursuing entrepreneurial passions has been particularly satisfying. Transitioning to an office job in Manila, despite the challenges of a startup environment, has been an inspiring experience.
Benefits of working overseas
Working abroad has broadened L.A.’s horizons and exposed him to a higher level of expertise.
“Dubai, for instance, is a modern city where I had the chance to learn a lot from experts in my field,” he shares.
These experiences have provided valuable insights and perspectives, aiding him in running his own business. He believes that life’s events fall into place according to a greater plan, offering growth and development along the way.
L.A.’s journey has not been without its struggles. During the pandemic, he faced significant challenges, feeling isolated and alone in Dubai while his business in the Philippines suffered. However, support came from unexpected places.
“I met someone in Dubai who was a business owner in the hospitality industry,” he recounts.
This connection provided him with accommodation and income opportunities through stock trading. This period reinforced his faith and taught him to keep pushing forward, trusting in a higher plan.
Looking ahead, L.A. aims to continue expanding his ventures both in the Philippines and abroad. He is passionate about uplifting the lives of fellow Filipinos and sharing his knowledge to help others achieve their goals. He believes working abroad offers invaluable opportunities for learning and growth.
“Meeting people from different nationalities, trying new foods, and learning unique perspectives can be truly enriching,” he notes.
L.A.’s advice to fellow Filipinos struggling abroad is grounded in focus and financial prudence.
“Pursue your goals and focus on your dreams, always remembering why you decided to leave the Philippines,” he advises.
He emphasizes the importance of wise financial investments and self-improvement, suggesting that investing in income-generating opportunities in the Philippines is a smart move given the country’s current economic boom.
Faith and compassion
Central to L.A.’s life is his faith and compassion. He encourages others to keep Jesus at the center of their lives and approach everything with love and compassion.
“During challenging times, it’s important to hold on to faith and trust that God has a perfect plan for our lives,” he says, referencing Matthew 6:33.
L.A. believes in supporting and encouraging one another, reinforcing the idea that we are all in this together.
This article has been published in Volume 5, Issue 1 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.
