For many overseas Filipino workers, landing a job abroad is the dream. But for Eden Manalo Uchayan, CHRP, CHRM, it wasn’t enough.
“Actually, I want to be HR Manager in the Philippines—not here in the UAE,” she shared in an exclusive interview with Financial Adviser PH. “Because Human Resources here focuses more on labor visa processing, cancellation, and all… they forgot the other areas actually.”
That realization became the turning point. While working abroad, Eden made a decision—to invest in herself, not just settle into a routine role.
“When I was still studying at the University of Batangas for my bachelor’s degree, I heard some professors were taking licenses… so in my mind, I need to have to,” she said. That quiet ambition pushed her to pursue professional certification even before graduating.
And it wasn’t just for credentials. “The airline which I am dreaming of to be hired—this is one qualification accepted,” she explained.
Unlike others who may be influenced by mentors or peers, Eden made the decision entirely on her own. “Nobody pushed, only myself,” she smiled.
That bold step gave her a new level of confidence—not just in herself, but in how she saw her role in the HR profession. “Psychologically, you know this feeling that you have a license as your profession. It helps—boosting myself, pushing to be more and better.”
At work, she now finds herself standing tall among colleagues from different countries and with advanced degrees. “Since I was working with different nationalities, with MBAs, licensed engineers, and all—now I am CHRM, CHRP… so I belong more. Though I felt belong since then, but this time, with more confidence.”
Her decision to get certified wasn’t just about now—it was about preparing for what’s next.
“Continued learning,” she said. “Though some training are not applicable here in UAE, if my dream is to be an HR Manager in the Philippines, then I have to be equipped with all HR regulations I may be needing in the future.”
Eden’s story is a reminder that growth doesn’t always happen where you are. Sometimes, it begins with a vision for where you want to be—and the willingness to bet on yourself to get there.
