Anabel Lu Bongalon

Anabel Lu Bongalon is a 35-year-old single mother from Marilao, Bulacan. She is the fifth child among six siblings, growing up with four brothers and one sister. Her father, an 80-year-old retired seaman, continues to be a guiding figure in her life, while her mother sadly passed away in 2024. As the sole provider for her 16-year-old daughter, Anabel has always been determined to work hard and provide a better future for her child. She completed her secondary education at Concepcion Integrated School in 2006. Anabel pursued a degree in Business Administration, reaching her second year in college. However, due to financial challenges, she had to pause her studies and start working to support her family. She began working locally as a saleslady (2015–2016), a food assistant crew member (2017–2018), and later in factory jobs such as quality control and production work. In 2013, Anabel began her journey in domestic work by serving a Filipino family in the PHILIPPINES. The household included a couple and their three children (ages 10, 20, and 28), living in a three-bedroom bungalow. Anabel performed general housekeeping duties such as cleaning, laundry, and cooking. She also assisted in the daily routines of the youngest child and cared for the family’s dog. This experience gave her a strong foundation in handling home responsibilities with care and attention. In July 2018, Anabel took a leap and went to SAUDI ARABIA to work as a full-time domestic helper for an Arab family. She stayed with them for over six years (until November 2024)—a testament to her reliability and dedication. The household was large and demanding, consisting of 11 bedrooms across three stories, and included a couple, an elderly couple in their 60s, and two young children aged 8 and 10. Anabel’s responsibilities were wide-ranging: She managed general housekeeping, keeping the large home clean and organized. She did laundry, ironing, and cooking, preparing both Filipino and Arab dishes. She cared for two cats and one dog, ensuring they were fed and well-groomed. Most importantly, she looked after the two children, ensuring their safety, helping with daily routines, and keeping them engaged in learning and play. Anabel's long-term service in Saudi Arabia highlights her strength in multitasking, her ability to adjust to different cultures, and her genuine care for the families she serves. She returned to the Philippines in late 2024 and briefly worked as a production worker from February to July 2025 while preparing for her next opportunity abroad. Currently, she is focusing on securing a household job in Singapore. While waiting for her application to be processed, she spends her time doing household chores and looking after her daughter. Anabel is confident in caring for children of all ages, open to elderly care, and willing to learn more — including new recipes and skills — to better serve future employers.