From a severe medical condition survivor to a successful businesswoman in the UAE
LIBERTY CANO SAMONTE-GALANG: An overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who survived a severe medical condition and became a successful restaurant owner in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Galang, the eldest of five siblings, moved to Dubai in November 2005 at the age of 18 to support her mother, Brenda, who had arrived earlier that year. Initially, Galang worked various jobs, including as a secretary, travel agent, receptionist, and training coordinator, to help her mother and her younger siblings.
In 2011, at 25, Galang was diagnosed with a severe medical condition that caused debilitating headaches, dizziness, and blackouts. She underwent surgery at the University of Santo Tomas Hospital and returned to Dubai after recovery to continue supporting her family. However, her symptoms recurred in 2014, leading to another medical checkup in early 2015 that confirmed the condition had worsened with complications.
Despite these challenges, Galang persisted. By 2018, she was working as a salesperson at a honey shop in the Sharjah Fish Market, which led to the opportunity to open a kiosk selling her mother’s traditional Filipino treats. In October 2019, she and her husband, Michael Angelo, opened NaDerang Restaurant in Sharjah, specializing in authentic Filipino cuisine, particularly “lutong Kapampangan”, a testament to the culinary excellence of people from Pampanga. The restaurant was named after a song their daughter frequently sang and has gained popularity in the community, winning the “Best in Traditional Filipino Cuisine” award at a recent event.
Galang, now 38 according to GMA News, reflects on her journey with tears, acknowledging the hardships but also the unwavering support of her faith. Despite still experiencing seizures and blackouts, she draws strength from her belief that God’s plans for her are not yet complete. She also leads a Bible study group, finding solace and purpose in her faith.
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