Teofilo De Sagun, a driven and accomplished Analyzer Engineer, is a testament to the power of determination and the pursuit of opportunities. Born and raised in the Philippines, Teofilo’s journey to success has been marked by significant achievements and a passion for continuous learning. In an exclusive interview with The Global Filipino Magazine, Teofilo shares his experiences, challenges, and words of wisdom for fellow kababayans who are striving to make their mark abroad.
Teofilo’s impressive educational background includes a double bachelor’s degree in Electronics Engineering and Instrumentation & Control Engineering Technology. As a recipient of the Ten Outstanding Student Awardee (TOSA) in 2006 at Batangas State University, he proved his commitment to excellence from an early age. Teofilo’s career took off when he joined JG Summit Petrochemical Corporation, where he honed his skills and laid the foundation for his professional growth.
With a thirst for international exposure and a desire to uplift his family’s living standards, Teofilo decided to work abroad.
“I wanted to be exposed to the international arena and gain more knowledge and skills,” he explains.
The passing of his father and the resulting financial burdens further fueled his motivation to succeed.
Teofilo’s first work abroad was in Petrorabigh, Saudi Arabia, where he held various positions such as Instrument/Analyzer Engineer, Maintenance Leader, and Technical Advisor.
Teofilo’s outstanding performance in Petrorabigh opened doors for him at SABIC, another major company in Saudi Arabia. During his tenure at SABIC, he not only completed technical certifications but also presented technical papers in prestigious international platforms. He demonstrated his expertise and commitment to excellence, earning recognition as a Certified Maintenance & Reliability Professional (CMRP) and being awarded Best Performance Quality Assurance Network Committee (QANC) Analyzer in SABIC.
In 2021, the successful engineer joined the Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO) for the Bapco Modernization Program (BMP) project. As an Analyzer Engineer (SME), he plays a crucial role in the project’s precomm and commissioning phases, ensuring the efficient operation of analyzers and fire and gas systems. Teofilo’s dedication to his work and his active involvement in professional organizations like the Gulf Society of Maintenance & Reliability (GSMR) have made him one of BAPCO’s esteemed heroes for 2023.
Beyond his professional achievements, Teofilo is a passionate advocate for knowledge sharing. He actively engages with various audiences, including students, young professionals, and fellow industry experts, by speaking at events and conferences. Teofilo believes in the power of education and aims to establish The Teofila Encarnacion Dano Scholarship Foundation in honor of his mother, who instilled in him the value of helping others.
When asked about the struggles he faced during his journey, Teofilo emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus and following rules and regulations. He attributes his strength to his mother’s words of wisdom: “Wag ninyong kakalimutan ang inyong mga BAIT.”
Teofilo’s faith in God and his unwavering commitment to his goals have helped him overcome challenges and emerge victorious.
Looking ahead, Teofilo envisions a future full of possibilities. He plans to build a foundation, pursue his passion for acting and film production, and establish a technical school in his municipality. With his broad range of aspirations, Teofilo aims to continue empowering himself and others, making a lasting impact on the community.
To fellow kababayans who are facing struggles abroad, Teofilo offers valuable advice. He encourages them to stay focused on their goals, prioritize family, and invest wisely. Teofilo emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who prioritize planning for the future and avoid unnecessary distractions. He reminds everyone to maintain a work-life balance, seize opportunities for personal growth, and stay positive even in the face of challenges.