My Pinoy Life In Danang, Vietnam

Filipinos in Vietnam: Arturo Poblete Jr., Director for Les Gants Vietnam

I first came to Vietnam in July 2005 to set up and assist the country director of Les Gants Vietnam. My ability to speak in Vietnamese & Japanese were a plus for me as I officially served as the Japanese and Vietnamese interpreter of the company. Eventually, I became the director for Les Gants Vietnam in 2006; a post I held on to till 2010.

I live in Danang City, Vietnam, the third largest city in Vietnam located in the central part of the country. Danang City a long coast line and as you can imagine, beautiful beaches and many ancient ruins that reflect the Chinese influence on the country. During the Vietnam War, the US military had a large presence here and you can still see the American presence today in the structures that the Americans built. Danang is in the center of famous places here in Vietnam; it is near to both Hue City and Hoi An, an ancient city province of Quang nam. I think I can compare Danag city to Cebu City, both are ideal places to go on vacation because of its pristine beaches and friendly people.

Fil Community in SEA Neighbor

I guess like many parts of the world, Danang City has a Pinoy community. There are probably 200 of us, most of whom are engineers, English teachers and professional hoteliers. There are also some entertainers. In our case here, we always meet on Sundays at the Saint Peter, Cathedral. We have 2 Filipino priests here.

Self-learning and self-awakening

I learned something about myself when I moved to Vietnam. I was a very picky eater when I was in the Philippines. I don’t try food that am not familiar with, but moving here, I learned to eat vegetarian food three times a week due to the Buddhist practice of not eating meat and non-salty foods. I’ve even learned how to ride a motorcycle; it is the best form of transportation going to work or anywhere near or far.

To my fellow Pinoys around the world, kahit saan na-iiba ang Pinoy. Show them why we Filipinos are in demand in every industry. Mabuhay po tayong lahat!

See also: My Pinoy Life In Singapore