In the dynamic and often demanding world of corporate leadership, one rarely sees someone stay in the same company for nearly two decades—let alone rise to the top while actively lifting others along the way. At 52, Gilbert Pagtalunan Espiritu is not just holding a powerful role in one of the UAE’s most respected firms—he’s redefining what leadership looks like for Overseas Filipino Workers.
Currently serving as Executive Vice President for Human Resources and Administration at Orient Insurance PJSC, an Al Futtaim company, Gilbert oversees a multinational workforce of 1,800 people across eight countries. “I was hired directly from the Philippines in 2008,” he shared with TGFM. “I never changed jobs since then. I’ve been here for 17 years now.”
From his office in Dubai, Gilbert leads a diverse team composed of 11 direct reports, six dotted-line managers, and nearly 20 indirect team members. Together, they manage employees spread across the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Syria, and Turkey. It’s a massive responsibility—but one that Gilbert shoulders with humility and unwavering commitment.
An unexpected path abroad
Before moving to Dubai, Gilbert was already thriving in the Philippines. He had worked with UPS as an HR Manager, helping establish the intra-Asia hub in Clark, Pampanga, and later moved to Chevron as the HR Manager for their Shared Services division. “It wasn’t intentional at first,” he admitted about his overseas career. “I was already with Chevron back home when I was enticed to try working in Dubai. I told myself I’d stay for five years—but five became ten, and then more. I think it’s the drive to achieve more that keeps me going.”
What sets Gilbert apart is his consistency. He didn’t hop from job to job or chase flashy titles. Instead, he grew within his role and proved his worth. Today, he is the first Filipino to reach an executive position of his level not only at Orient Insurance but across the entire Al Futtaim Group, which employs over 23,000 people.
Purpose beyond profession
While his corporate achievements are significant, Gilbert’s life isn’t all about work. Deeply rooted in his personal mantra—“I can make a difference in the life of others”—he has dedicated much of his time and resources to causes that empower fellow Filipinos.
In the Philippines, he was a longtime choir member, and when he moved to Dubai, he joined the ICP Choir, singing during Filipino masses at St. Mary’s Church. He also became actively involved in community organizations, serving as a past president of Kiwanis Dubai and as a former officer of the Filipino HR (FILHR) group.
Gilbert also took his advocacy for Filipino pride and cultural representation to the stage—literally. As the founder of Star Realm Entertainment, he organized the Man of the Philippines Dubai pageant for three years, later expanding it to the national level back home. “It brought together men from across the country and overseas, giving them a platform to showcase their culture and advocacies,” he said. His efforts also led to two editions of the international male pageant Man of the Universe, centered on promoting unity in diversity.
Building dreams with business
Beyond pageantry, Gilbert has also ventured into entrepreneurship. He currently heads Ahead Unlimited, an e-commerce platform under which he manages Calidad Fashion and Lifestyle and Calidad Gem. “We cater to Filipinos around the world with original and authentic mid-luxury bags and wallets at discounted prices, plus pre-loved luxury bags from Japan,” he explained. The business also includes gold selling at more affordable rates—a nod to his desire to bring quality and trust to Filipino shoppers globally.
And he doesn’t keep success to himself. Despite having been scammed twice in the past, Gilbert continues to support other Filipinos with business aspirations by investing in their ventures. “I believe that dreams do come true, and a little help can make a big difference. I’ve learned to be more cautious, but that won’t stop me from helping others succeed.”
From hardship to harmony
Gilbert’s career and life in Dubai have not been without challenges. “The hardest part was the loneliness of being away from family,” he shared. “I had to learn to take care of myself and stay strong. My faith has always been my anchor—my rosary is my companion every day.”
But over time, he found a second family in Dubai. “Having that support system helped me deal with the isolation. They gave me the companionship and solitude I needed.”
Looking ahead with heart
As he looks to the future, Gilbert envisions expanding his businesses and continuing to help others do the same. “I want to support new businesses by being an investor or partner. Growth doesn’t stop here,” he said.
For kabayans abroad who are currently struggling, Gilbert offers this advice: “Do not spend more than you can. Self-gratification can come later. Focus on saving and invest in things that appreciate in value.” He also warns against blind trust, recalling his own experiences with financial scams. “Not all friends can be trusted. Know the legal procedures before you invest.”
In the workplace, Gilbert champions passion and integrity. “Be passionate about your work because you are building your own name. No one else will do that for you. Your passion should fuel your desire to learn and grow. When that happens, opportunity will find you.”
