Jaehwa Bernardo

Patrick John Arban, a Filipino commercial model in Saudi Arabia. Photos from Arban

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Discovered at mall: Pinoy makes mark in Saudi commercials

ABS-CBN News

<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1778492738399IMG_4485.JPG" style="width:633px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="633" alt="Patrick John Arban, a Filipino commercial model in Saudi Arabia. Photos from Arban"/>Patrick John Arban, a Filipino commercial model in Saudi Arabia. Photos from Arban</div>In a place where opportunities often come unexpectedly, one Filipino’s journey proves that even an ordinary day can turn into a life-changing moment. Meet Patrick John Arban, known to many as Pat, a 32-year-old overseas Filipino worker based in Malaz, Riyadh, who found himself stepping into the world of commercials in Saudi Arabia — quite literally by chance.Originally from Rizal, Laguna, Patrick moved to the Kingdom in 2015 in pursuit of better career opportunities. Like many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), he began working outside the spotlight, currently serving as an OPD assistant in a pharmaceutical company under Abdulrheman Algosaibi. But fate had other plans.Patrick’s entry into the commercial industry wasn’t planned. It all started when someone noticed him while he was casually walking in a mall.“I started as a regular person working here in Saudi Arabia. One day, someone noticed me and invited me to join a commercial. From there, more opportunities came,” he said.His first project? A commercial for Lulu Hypermarket — a stepping stone that opened doors to projects with Netflix, restaurant brands, telecom companies, fashion labels, and even tourism campaigns.Despite having done only a handful of projects so far, the diversity of his roles already speaks volumes. From playing a tourist expat to portraying characters of different Asian backgrounds — Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Filipino — Patrick has experienced the dynamic range the industry demands.<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1778492791938IMG_5469.JPG" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/></div>Transitioning into the commercial scene in Saudi Arabia wasn’t without its challenges. For Patrick, one of the biggest hurdles was the language barrier and adapting to a multicultural work environment.“Before, it was hard for me to make conversations and connections with teams from different nationalities. But now, I can handle it.”He describes the industry as “fun and professional,” emphasizing the importance of discipline — being on time and following instructions are non-negotiable on set.<div>Realities</div>Like any field, the commercial industry comes with its own set of realities. Patrick openly shares the emotional side of the job — being selected but not appearing in the final cut, or experiencing last-minute cancellations.“Before, I would get hurt and disappointed when rejected. But eventually, I learned to handle it. I always keep in mind — if it’s meant for me, it will be for me.”Typecasting is another challenge he has encountered, yet he has learned to embrace it as part of the process rather than a limitation.More than exposure, Patrick values the personal growth and connections he has gained.“I’ve made friends with different nationalities. It helped me become more confident, even though sometimes I experience discrimination.”These experiences have not only shaped his confidence but have also shifted his outlook on life and career. What once seemed unimaginable is now part of his reality.<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1778492772799IMG_5466.JPG" style="width:633px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/></div><div>Pinoy pride</div>For Patrick, every appearance on screen carries a deeper meaning.“I feel very proud because I’m not just carrying myself, but the whole Filipino community here in Saudi Arabia.”He believes Filipinos stand out in the industry due to their professionalism and strong communication skills, and from his experience, he affirms that Filipinos are gaining visibility in the media landscape of the Kingdom.A typical day on set? Expect long hours, a busy schedule and plenty of food and coffee to keep everyone going. Among all his experiences, one stands out the most (and brings a smile): being cast as a woman maid with full glam makeup.“That was also one of the funniest moments on set.”For Filipinos in Saudi Arabia who dream of entering the same field, Patrick offers grounded advice: “Always do your best when opportunities come, and always be professional.”He also emphasizes the mindset needed to survive and succeed: “Be kind and keep your feet on the ground.”When asked to describe his journey in one sentence, he simply says: “Dream come true.”

In a place where opportunities often come unexpectedly, one Filipino’s journey proves that even an ordinary day can turn into a life-changing moment.

In a place where opportunities often come unexpectedly, one Filipino’s journey proves that even an ordinary day can turn into a life-changing moment.

Discovered at mall: Pinoy makes mark in Saudi commercials

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Discovered at mall: Pinoy makes mark in Saudi commercials

ABS-CBN News,

JP Aleta

Published May 11, 2026 06:18 PM PHT

Read More:

overseas Filipinos

commercial model

Patrick John Arban

Saudi Arabia

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