SM honors notable Global Pinoys

FEBRUARY 18, Thursday, during the launch of SM Supermall’s newest Corporate Social Responsibility Program for the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)– Global Pinoy Program, SM City Davao cited 9 notable Global Pinoys (and Davaoeños/Mindanaoans at that!) who have succeeded in their chosen fields.
SM Supermalls coined the term “Global Pinoy” to refer to all Filipinos who have (1) worked abroad and, (2) lived abroad and by which, have given honor to the Philippines.
Celina Le Neindre
French-Filipina “print and commercial model”-turned- “restaurateur and chef” who puts into her cuisine her experiences while growing up around the globe. She studied in French Riviera and worked with event organizers in Cannes. Now she runs her own restaurant Farfalla and admits that Davao still is home.
Eduardo Araral, Jr., PhD
Son of esteemed educator Eduardo Araral, Sr. (who accepted the recognition on his behalf), it is no wonder Ed Jr. chose a career very close to heart. He brings pride and honor to the country by sharing his expertise in prestigious universities  abroad. Now, he serves as the Asst. Dean and Professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore.
Virgencita Lagunsay
Worked for the royal households in Saudi Arabia for 11 years. A muslim convert, she has raised a family worthy to have been awarded 2007 Model OFW Family by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
Ann T. Pamintuan
A Davao-based designer for furniture and jewelry, Ann got into the world of design out of sheer interest. She did not go into formal design school yet with her innate talent and taste, her designs won her a number of awards from various parts of the world like Sweden, New York, London and Japan.
Capt. Norberto Bajenting
Capt. Bajenting was able to raise his family by working as a seaman. After 29 years of being an OFW, he decided to stay in the country to see his kids grow up. OWWA Model OFW Family in 2008, Capt. Bajenting exemplifies what sacrifices a father could do for the love of his children.
Myrna Padilla
An OFW for 11 years, Myrna did not stop from dreaming big and reaching for the higher ground. While abroad, she took every chance to learn and explored on entrepreneurial opportunities which she managed to grow. Most Inspiring Davaoeño Entrepreneur of 2009 and OWWA Most Outstanding Landbased OFW of 2008, she now runs Mynd Consulting, an outsourcing IT company.
Charlie Pagaran
Cited for his field in performing arts, Charlie with his band Power Jam has toured Japan and other Asian countries. An achiever and a very active youth leader, he is now president of his own consultancy and manpower management company while still forwarding the welfare of OFWs.
Garimon Roferos
Worked in Riyadh as an in-house fashion consultant of the largest fashion house in Saudi Arabia, Garimon is a Filipino talent that is most remarkable. His avant-garde designs which utilizes indigenous fibers from durian, waterlily and abaca has won him numerous citations here and abroad. Now, he also serves as a consultant to Mag Negosyo Ta Day livelihood project.
Manny Pacquiao
The Philippine’s pride in the field of boxing, from his humble roots, Manny has managed to make a mark in the boxing world.  By excelling in his field, Manny has brought much honor to the country.
Completing the afternoon of celebration was live performances from Davao’s very own Himig Singers(also honorary Global Pinoy awardees) and Kathara Theater Collective, who have given pride to the country as  well.
Capping the event  was a powerful song number from Davao’s homegrown talent– Nica Tupas, who will soon be joining the Philippine team to the World Championships of Performing Arts (Hollywood, California).
SM invites all Global Pinoys and their families to open a world of privileges and  visit the Global Pinoy Center at the Level 2 of Mindanao’s premier shopping, dining and leisure destination– SM City Davao!
For inquiries, please call 297 6998 local 120.