When Hermelia Bahinting Cerilla left the Philippines nearly two decades ago, it wasn’t because she had spent years dreaming of an overseas career. In fact, it was quite the opposite.
Back home, life was already moving in the right direction. Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management and a Master's in Management, she had built a respectable career as a branch manager in the IT industry while teaching part-time at the University of San Carlos in Cebu City.
"I never imagined myself working abroad," she said. "Life in the Philippines was good."
Then came an unexpected invitation from a close friend—someone she considers a sister. That friend arranged everything, from the visa to the plane ticket, even covering the expenses until Hermelia could pay her back after arriving in Dubai.
"I was simply curious about what life abroad would be like. Looking back now, that one decision changed the course of my life."
Her first job in Dubai was a far cry from the career she had left behind. She worked as a sales executive in a ladies' fashion boutique inside Emirates Towers.
"The biggest challenge was accepting that I was earning less than what I made in the Philippines. It was difficult, but I reminded myself that I wasn't here just for the present—I was working toward something bigger."
That mindset became the foundation of everything that followed.
Over the next 18 years, Hermelia worked across different industries, embracing opportunities she never could have planned. She admits she has never been the type to map out every step of her future.
"I just go with the flow. Whatever opportunity comes my way, I always give it my best."
That openness led her to experiences she once thought impossible.
She became part of Porsche Middle East and Africa, where she served as a Training Administrator and was flown to Germany for specialized training. She managed the Porsche Academy Learning Management System and even had the rare opportunity to drive Porsche vehicles during product launches and training events.
She later joined SMC Corporation Middle East, handling customer service for robotics and pneumatic parts while coordinating with the regional office in Singapore. In another role, she managed branch operations while serving as Executive Assistant, representing her company at exhibitions across the Gulf region.
Those careers opened doors far beyond the workplace.
"I've been fortunate enough to travel to places I once only dreamed of—Germany, Switzerland, France, Israel, and many more. Those experiences are blessings I will always treasure."
But success did not erase moments of doubt.
The hardest chapter came in 2025 after resigning from a job where she had devoted years of dedication, serving both as Executive Assistant and branch operations manager.
"It was the first time in all my years as an OFW that I truly felt empty."
She questioned everything.
"Was I no longer competent? Had I failed? I gave everything I had, yet somehow it still felt like it wasn't enough."
Instead of allowing those questions to consume her, she chose to pause.
"I prayed. I reflected. I trusted that God was preparing me for something better."
Today, she says people often see her as someone with a strong personality, but what keeps her going isn't toughness alone—it's faith, optimism, and the refusal to give up.
"I always remind myself that everything is going to be okay. By God's grace, all is well."
For Hermelia, success isn't measured only by job titles or stamps on a passport.
It's the investments she has been able to make back home. The land she purchased. The cooperatives she joined. The financial security she has slowly built. And knowing she has been able to help her family without losing sight of her own future.
"Being single allowed me to focus on building a secure future for myself. Helping my family has always been important, but I'm grateful that my siblings also work hard for themselves."
Her personal philosophy remains simple.
"Always choose kindness. Stay positive. Ignore negativity because it won't help you grow."
She also lives by two beliefs that have carried her through life:
"If it's meant to be, it will come your way."
And,
"What is due to Juan, give to Juan."
Whenever life becomes overwhelming, she returns to the Bible verse that has anchored her through every season:
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
After 18 years in the United Arab Emirates, Hermelia is beginning to think about the next chapter.
She dreams of returning to the Philippines for good, not to slow down, but to build something of her own through business and finally enjoy the life she has spent years working toward.
Looking back, she realizes that her greatest achievement isn't simply working abroad.
It's becoming someone who never stopped growing despite every uncertainty.
To fellow Filipinos dreaming of working overseas, her advice is grounded in experience rather than promises.
"Working abroad can open doors to better opportunities, but success doesn't come from luck alone. It comes from preparation, perseverance, and integrity."
She encourages aspiring OFWs to understand their rights, learn about the culture of the country they'll be working in, continue building new skills, and manage their finances wisely.
"Most importantly, never forget why you started—to build a better future for yourself and your family. Wherever life takes you, carry the kindness, respect, and resilience that Filipinos are known for. Those values will take you farther than you ever imagined."