MANILA, Philippines — After more than three decades working overseas, Filipina entrepreneur Jury Joani, founder of Jury Hot Sauce Trading, was honored in a magazine signing event held on May 29, 2025, at La Fiesta, Mall of Asia Seaside. The celebration marked her feature in the prestigious Emirati International Magazine, where she was recognized as the first Filipina to grace its pages.
Joani, a native of Zamboanga with Spanish heritage, left the Philippines at a very young age to work abroad as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW). Her journey is one of deep sacrifice, quiet strength, and limitless hope.
“Ang sakit-sakit iwan ang pamilya ko noon. Bata pa ako, pero kailangan kong kayanin,” she shared emotionally, recalling her early days working in a foreign land.
While working in the Middle East, Joani came across a centuries-old hot sauce recipe once served to Arab royalty. Inspired, she began developing her own blend—using only organic and local ingredients. After years of hard work, she returned to the Philippines and established Jury Hot Sauce Trading, turning a legacy of pain into purpose.
“Ginawa ko ‘to para sa mga kagaya kong OFW. Para alam nilang puwede rin tayong magtagumpay sa sariling bayan,” she said, addressing fellow OFWs.
The event was graced by Dr. Pratik Mungekar, a respected scientist, professor, and Managing Editor of Emirati International Magazine, based in London and India.
“Meeting the first Filipina to be featured in Emirati International Magazine is truly historic and inspiring,” said Dr. Mungekar, who personally flew in to witness the occasion.
Jury Joani’s story now stands as a powerful symbol of hope and transformation for OFWs across the globe.
“Hindi lang ako nagbenta ng hot sauce. Isinilid ko rito ang luha ng pag-asa, alaala, at pagmamahal ko sa Pilipinas,” Joani said, her voice thick with emotion.
From a life of silent sacrifices to international recognition, Jury Joani proves that no dream is too distant, and no humble beginning too small, to create something that touches the world.
