The social media feeds of Filipinos in the United Arab Emirates were recently filled with images of Philippine superstar Piolo Pascual, who visited Dubai to help promote the partnership between SandBox Middle East and PLDT Global Corporation. The popular Filipino actor was spotted making the rounds of selected supermarkets in Dubai, particularly Pinoy Mart in Jafiliya, Palengke Supermarket in Burjuman, and Philippine Supermarket in Muraqqabat – all of which are popular destinations for grocery shopping among the Filipino expat community.
The supermarket tour was held as part of an awareness campaign highlighting the new overseas Bills Payment service launched by SandBox Middle East in partnership with PLDT Global. Through the partnership, Filipinos working in the UAE can now pay for their Philippine-based utility bills, social security contributions, insurance subscriptions, and even real estate mortgages over the counter at selected supermarkets across the Emirates.
Dozens of fans gathered around each supermarket outlet as early as four hours before the scheduled visit in hopes of seeing Piolo Pascual in person. And they weren’t disappointed as the “ultimate leading man” gamely posed for photos and engaged with his fans at each stop. Rosemarie Estrada, a domestic helper based in Dubai, waited patiently for two hours and was extremely happy to have a photo with Piolo. “Ang gwapo niya talaga, at ang bait pa. Kinilig ako nung nakita ko siya,” Estrada said. (“He’s really good looking, and extremely kind. I was thrilled to see him.”)
On June 26, overseas Filipinos in Dubai and neighboring areas can visit the PLDT Global booth at the Dubai World Trade Center and avail of exclusive offers for the “Kalayaan 2022,” a gathering celebrating the 124th anniversary of the Philippine Independence.