There is no doubt that the story of Francisco or Bogs (as friends call him) of Camarines Sur is a story of hardwork, dedication and perseverance. His success in spite of his humble beginnings is a source of inspiration for many Filipino workers who are dreaming of a better life.

Bogs started working in  the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) at a young age of 20 as a car washer. During his free time, he would help his fellow workers in mechanical repairs. This paved the way for a new knowledge. After an almost 3-year contract, Bogs came back to Philippines and stayed for few months.

It was in 1994 when he was hired by Al-Jazirah Ford Vehicles Agencies (Ford Dealer in KSA) and there was given the opportunity to use and improve his new learned skills. A young man hungry for new knowledge, he absorbs any new information he can get and so was able to hone his skills as a Technician.

However, a work-related issue left Bogs with no choice but to go back home. He stayed in the Philippines for some months, until the issue was cleared. The owner himself offered to re-hire him.

This time, he was sent to Jeddah as a technician but was promoted as a Workshop Controller after few months. As the job requires new skills, (Bogs is only a high school graduate and spent one year in a Technical course), he studied computer literacy offered by fellow Filipinos in the Philippine Embassy. According to Bogs, the training he received greatly helped to boost his career.

In 2002, Bogs went back to the Philippines and together with his wife started their own business. “With God’s help, the business is doing very well up to this day,” he said. He was also able to build his own house...the fruit of his honest labor.

However, it seems that he is destined for something more. After a year, Bogs was hired by Ford Alabang to be an Assistant Service Manager. As he was very familiar with the vehicles, he was given the chance to take the top lead of the Service department. There he was trained on how to effectively manage an organization and remarkably did well in his new job.

When Bog’s former boss in Saudi learned about his present job and his remarkable performance, he was offered a job as a manager in Ford KSA where he is presently working. He arrived in KSA, March of 2007.

His message to all OFWs around the world:Be practical. Work on your dreams and visualize what you want to happen in your life.

To get in touch with Bogs, you can email him at: bogs@aljazirahford.com