Filipino IT Leader in Saudi Arabia Challenges Stereotypes, Highlights Executive Capabilities

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – John Michael Panghulan, a Filipino IT professional based in Saudi Arabia, has addressed the common stereotype that associates Filipinos primarily with domestic and hospitality roles. As Assistant Vice President for IT Project Delivery at a leading Saudi sovereign investment firm, Panghulan asserts that Filipinos are equally competent in managerial and executive positions.

"Many Filipinos in Saudi Arabia are still seen in domestic and hospitality sectors," said the 37-year-old native of Tanauan City, Batangas. "I deeply respect these roles for their dignity and resilience, but I also want to broaden this narrative to include leadership and strategic roles in technology and management."

Panghulan recounted experiences where he felt underestimated, such as being treated differently in luxury stores or questioned about his profession outside work. "On casual occasions, I am often recognized as a Filipino and sometimes not given due respect. However, when I wear a professional suit, I am often mistaken for a non-Filipino," he explained. He acknowledged that these experiences are personal and do not represent the entire Filipino community but hopes to dismantle the stereotype that Filipinos excel only in support roles.

According to the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, Filipinos number nearly 900,000 in the kingdom, making them the sixth-largest expatriate group. While many remain employed as domestic helpers, an increasing number are entering sectors such as oil and gas, transportation, telecommunications, and healthcare as Saudi Arabia's economy diversifies.

Filipino workers first arrived in Saudi Arabia in the 1970s, initially filling engineering, construction, domestic help, and nanny positions. Today, professionals like Panghulan exemplify their expanding presence in leadership positions.

Having worked in the UAE since 2014, Panghulan was recently the sole Filipino honored at The Intelligent Data, AI, and Automation Summit in Riyadh. He views this recognition as a collective achievement for Filipinos striving for visibility in competitive global industries.

Panghulan leads large-scale IT and digital transformation projects focused on modern workplace technology, smart infrastructure, and enterprise systems that contribute to national development. His role involves coordinating with technical teams, consultants, and stakeholders to deliver impactful solutions.

His path to leadership was not without obstacles. During college, he worked various jobs including at McDonald's and a call center. In 2015, while in the UAE, Panghulan faced severe personal challenges, including a major medical crisis that led to partial paralysis and a period of homelessness after losing his job. Financially strained, he received critical support from friends and family, which helped him recover.

"The fear of returning to those hardships motivates me to give my utmost effort," he shared.

Emphasizing the absence of a universal formula for success, Panghulan encourages others to reject self-doubt and pursue opportunities that reflect their true potential. He also advises tech professionals to remain proactive and constantly seek growth to avoid stagnation.

"Belief in your own value unlocks the opportunities you deserve," he concluded.

Through his story, Panghulan challenges prevailing perceptions about Filipinos abroad and underscores their capacity for leadership across diverse sectors.