19/06/2025
Soon tayo naman if Gods will 🙏🌿
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Aquino Plotado, once a Jollibee crew member in Quezon City, is now one of the UAE’s top real estate brokers — recently closing an astounding AED 1 billion property deal. His journey from a tourist visa holder in 2011 to CEO of three international companies is nothing short of extraordinary.
Now 38, Aquino leads Aquino Plotado Real Estate International, Aquino Plotado Film International, and the Aquino Plotado Philanthropy Foundation. Beyond business, he recently donated ₱1 million to his alma mater in Malabon City, a testament to his commitment to giving back.
“I’ve experienced being bullied, discriminated against, looked down on because of my skin color, nationality, and even the way I spoke,” he revealed. “But I didn’t let that narrative trap me. Instead, I used every rejection and heartbreak as fuel to rise — not just survive, but thrive.”
From working in Jollibee and Philippine call centers, to landing jobs at world-class hotel chains and Dubai’s biggest entertainment venues, Aquino built his path through grit and vision. Today, he is also an award-winning film producer and a relentless advocate for education and empowerment.
“I will never forget the feeling of having nothing — of being hungry, being alone, feeling unseen,” Aquino said. “That’s why, while reaching for my dreams, I’ll always stay grounded, helping others rise too.”
To overseas Filipinos chasing their dreams, he offers this advice: “Turn your struggles into stepping stones. Be resilient. Be unshakable. Be unstoppable.”
This story originally appeared on The Global Filipino Magazine's page. Graphics and minor edits were made by the Destination PH editor.
