"I was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2019... I'm designing a new life now, healing myself. California is my new home, where I found a new hope and a new beginning. I'm grateful for the SIV opportunity making this happen." - Marilee Joy Mancao-Pasandalan, Secretary for 25 years at the U.S. Embassy in Manila
"We have different definitions of success. My definition of success is being happy. I am happy where I am now. The company of my friends makes life exciting. I have their emotional support that I miss from my relatives and friends in the Philippines... I enjoy my job and having a simple life with the grace of God. - Jojie Sopia, 25 years as a Cultural Affairs Assistant at the U.S. Embassy Manila
"We immigrated in 2014... My previous negative mindset to get a job as a janitor was proven wrong. I changed my mindset. I acknowledged the opportunity given to me and took advantage of it." - Jun Enalpe, Chief Engineer at the U.S. Embassy Manila with 23 years of service
"A great opportunity was offered to me as a supervisor at the Venetian Resort and Casino. It's been nine years now, and I still recall the challenging time when I did the housekeeping job. To start from an entry-level position is a good way to start. A better opportunity will come when the time is right. Be humble and patient." - Cecille Canlas, Financial and Administrative Specialist at the U.S. Embassy in Manila with 23 years of service
"My first job was a part-time janitor at Dunkin' Donuts for four months... It was a decent job and I wasn't embarrassed doing it. After working for Dunkin' Donuts, I was hired at a nursing home in the laundry department. A memorable experience happened when I found a fire, worked to prevent its spread, and called 911 for assistance. That incident saved the lives of the residents in the nursing home." - Renato Vega, Administrative Assistant at the U.S. Embassy Manila with 22 years of service