The journey of working abroad often begins with a search for bigger opportunities and a better future for one’s family. This is precisely the case for Mary Rose Flores Marcellano, a 48-year-old Filipina who has dedicated 16 years of her life to building a successful career in the UAE. Her story resonates with many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who leave their homeland in pursuit of growth and stability.
Mary Rose currently holds the positions of Chief Finance Officer (CFO) and Human Resources (HR) Director at Ichiryu Ramen House and Tako Ichiban House.
Reflecting on her path, she shares with The Global Filipino Magazine, “Numbers have fascinated me since I was young, as they convey a narrative if you pay close attention. Every penny matters, no matter how big or small. That is why financial management is crucial to any business; it is a key factor in propelling the business forward and beyond.”
Her roles involve meticulous financial management and overseeing HR operations, vital components in the restaurant industry.
Mary Rose’s career began in the Philippines, where she graduated from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Her first job was as a System Analyst, but she soon transitioned to a seven-year stint as a Store Manager at Jollibee Foods Corporation. Seeking greater prospects, she moved to the UAE in 2006 with her husband, Allan Jay Marcellano, aiming to provide a better future for their two children, Jyrus and Jade.
“We wanted to shield them from the struggles we personally faced growing up,” she explains.
Upon her arrival in the UAE, Mary Rose faced the typical challenges of an expatriate. She started as a Sales Person at Dragon Mart, then worked as a Receptionist at a hotel, and later as a Secretary at a travel agency. Her perseverance paid off when she secured a role as a Finance Manager at Dubai Silicon Oasis. This opportunity paved the way for a 14-year tenure at an event agency, where she held various positions including Finance Manager, HR Manager, Office Manager, PRO, and Personal Assistant.
The allure of working overseas extends beyond financial benefits for Mary Rose.
“Firstly, the financial benefits such as higher salaries, lower living expenses, and expatriate perks are appealing. Additionally, there is the chance for cultural immersion; residing in a foreign land allows for interaction with a new culture, learning new languages, and expanding one’s perspective. Lastly, living in a different country opens up travel possibilities, providing opportunities to explore neighboring regions and enriching both personal and professional life with diverse travel experiences,” she shares.
Mary Rose’s journey was not without its struggles. Losing her mother at the tender age of nine was a significant and heart-wrenching challenge.
“My family, especially my father, and I had to work together to overcome the hardship,” she recalls.
To support her family, she sold bananas and sweet potatoes on the street and often went to school without any money, relying on free rides from kind-hearted drivers.
“Life presents many challenges, but the important thing is how we learn from them,” she emphasizes.
Looking ahead, Mary Rose is focused on expanding their Japanese restaurants, aiming to establish Ichiryu Ramen House and Tako Ichiban House as the premier Ramen House not just in the UAE, but globally.
Her mantra in life is a powerful reflection of her journey: “You hold the power to chase after any dream you fancy, and the secret to achieving epic victories is to be head over heels in love with what you’re doing. Age is just a number – it should not hinder you; instead, it should inspire you to create new plans and imagine exciting adventures.”
For fellow kabayans who are struggling abroad, Mary Rose offers valuable advice: “Stay connected with home. Maintain relationships through regular communication with family and friends to combat loneliness and homesickness. Build a support network. Connect with expatriates or local communities for support, advice, and a sense of belonging. Prioritize mental and physical health. Remember that health is wealth and take care of both aspects. Stay informed and prepared. Understand legal and financial matters, including visa requirements, work permits, and obligations in both your home and host countries. Have emergency plans. Know local emergency numbers, prepare for natural disasters, and keep important documents easily accessible.”
This article has been published in Volume 5, Issue 2 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.