"Being a green card holder is a great opportunity. It's a unique privilege we acquire from working for the American government. I wanted to experience being an immigrant in this country that I've served for 20 years. And I'm proud to be one." - Sonia Rolle, served with the U.S. Commercial Service in Manila

"I'm grateful for the SIV opportunity... It's okay to make wrong choices or decisions sometimes. Use them as lessons learned. But don't stay where you are. Move on. Find the right place where life is easier and more promising." - Vic Castulo, 20 years with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in Manila as a supply technician

"I have a blessed life in America with my family... All this happened because of my employment at the American Embassy and the people who helped me. I am thankful for the SIV privilege. It's not just an opportunity but also an unexpected blessing. Faith and prayer also make things possible." - Jude Lopez, 19 and a half years of service with the U.S. Embassy Manila

"Did you dream of working in the Pentagon? I immigrated to America and didn't expect to work at the headquarters of the Department of Defense... I am now an assistant chef in the Pentagon. My first day at work brought back memories of the American Embassy in Manila... The security procedure wasn't new to me. It was similar but more high profile. I was excited and nervous." - Christopher Alfonso, 18 and a half years with the U.S. Commercial Service in Manila

"I am now cancer free. Overcoming my disability helped me arrive at the place where I am now. It didn't stop me from moving where I wanted to go. Rather, I used it as a ladder to reach the top and achieve my goals... In two more years, I plan to retire and enjoy my retirement years. Be positive and resilient. You'll need a lot of these in your journey to SIV." - Lorna Farinas, 26 years with the U.S. Embassy Manila's General Services Office