Filipinos around the world share the same hopes, dreams and aspirations

I just returned from a trip to Norway, where I visited Alex Cabiao, a Filipino chef who is renowned throughout Europe. Alex was an ordinary Filipino wage earner who achieved extraordinary success in Oslo, Norway. His story could be a source of hope, inspiration, and pride for other Filipinos around the world.

Alex was born in Samar, and grew up as one of ten children in his household. He made his way to Manila, where he got a job as a busboy. He eventually worked his way up to waiter, and then ultimately became the Chef at Furusato Restaurant in Manila. One day, Alex was approached by one of his customers, who offered him a chance of a lifetime: go into partnership with him and open a Sushi restaurant in Norway. Although Norway is known for its fish (such as Norwegian Salmon, etc.), surprisingly, there were no Sushi restaurants.

To make a long story short, Alex sought the advice of his father, who told him to go abroad, do his best, and succeed. So, Alex accepted the Norwegian’s offer, and together they opened the restaurant (appropriately named "Alex Sushi"). His talent as a premier Sushi Chef is known throughout Norway, where even the Royal Family regularly orders Sushi from Alex. He also has, as his customers, world-famous talents such as Sir Elton John and other Champions.

Despite Alex’s success, he remains true to his Filipino roots, tradition, and culture. Just like Filipinos everywhere around the world, Alex regularly remits funds to his parents and family in the Philippines. Through his overseas earnings, he was able to put his brothers and sisters through college.

Alex’s story provides a great immigration lesson for Filipinos, as well, especially those in America: Because Alex was legal, he was able to achieve his phenomenal success, earn well, and sufficiently provide for his family back home.

There are so many other Filipinos in the U.S., or around the world, who may be just as talented and hardworking as Alex. But, because they don’t have their "papers", they have to accept menial jobs, such as busboy, waiter, or care-giver. If only they were legal, they would have maximized their potential, and earn a lot more than what they are getting in their jobs today.

The father’s wish for his son Alex had come true: that his son Alex would be able to work abroad so he can "make a name for himself in his chosen field".

Alex’s wish for his father: that his father gets to visit him in Oslo, Norway to see what he has achieved. The simple lad from the province is now a well-known chef in one of the most economically stable countries in Europe. His father really does have a lot to be proud of.

Alex’s story, and his high regard for his father, is especially appropriate for this coming Father’s Day, as a way of recognizing all the fathers in various parts of the world who have chosen to seek greener pasture elsewhere for the benefit and prosperity of their families. To them, I pay homage, for it takes a lot of courage and sacrifice to go through life without their loved ones near them. I wish them the best in their endeavors, that they may be able to achieve their goals, improve their family’s lot, and eventually be reunited with their families in their newfound homes. I sincerely hope that they could also make full use of their potential, by legalizing their status in the United States or elsewhere, and provide well for their families, similar to what Alex and his father have now.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!

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