Culture
October 20, 2025

Celebrating Filipino Heritage: Meet Joni

Bulk Carriers

Our team is made up of individuals whose diverse backgrounds and experiences strengthen the way we work and the way we serve our customers. Every culture brings its own stories, traditions, and values, and together they create a workplace that is collaborative, resilient, and full of diverse perspectives.

As part of our ongoing commitment to celebrating the diverse backgrounds that strengthen our team, we sat down with Joni from our operations department to explore her Filipino heritage. Through her insights, we gained a deeper understanding of Philippine culture and the values that guide her professional approach.

Meet Joni

Since joining Bulk, Joni has been shaping the company’s website. And that’s where she comes in (literally): as the Website Designer, Joni is the go-to person for making the site user-friendly, and visually appealing. She’s always experimenting with new design ideas, bringing creativity and attention to detail,  and a touch of her personal passions, like her love for Taylor Swift, to everything she builds.

The interview below will give you plenty of insights into Joni’s culture, values, and perspective.

Joni at Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour

If you could take someone on a cultural tour of the Philippines, what three things would they absolutely need to see or try?

I would definitely take them to Fort Santiago in Manila first. It's this incredible 16th-century Spanish fortress that tells so much of our history, from colonial times through World War II, when it served as a prison.

Fort Santiago

Next would be Magellan's Cross in Cebu. This is where Christianity was first brought to the Philippines in 1521. It's not just about religion; it represents how different cultures came together to shape what we are today as Filipinos.

Magellan's Cross

Finally, Taal Volcano in Batangas. It's actually a volcano inside a lake inside another volcano unique. The natural beauty there is just breathtaking and shows why the Philippines is such a special place geographically.

Taal Volcano

What’s a piece of advice, wisdom, or saying from your culture that you live by?

Kung may tiyaga, may nilaga (if you persevere, you will reap rewards).

For Joni, this traditional Filipino proverb is more than just a saying; it’s a guiding principle. It reflects the belief that hard work, patience, and determination will always lead to meaningful results.

The diverse experiences and perspectives of our team are what drive us forward. By embracing diverse cultures, values, and approaches, we foster a workplace where collaboration thrives and operations remain robust. It’s this collective strength that allows us to deliver dependable, high-quality service across the country.

What’s one fun fact about your country that most people don’t know but should?

The Philippines has the world's longest Christmas season. We start celebrating in September and don't stop until January. I know that might sound excessive to some, but it reflects something important about Filipino culture: we believe in taking time to celebrate family, community, and togetherness.

For Joni, this tradition speaks to the heart of Filipino life: no matter how busy or challenging the year may be, there is always time to gather, celebrate, and reconnect with the people who matter most.

Christmas carol at the Mall of Asia

What's one aspect of Filipino culture you'd like to share with your colleagues?

I'd love to share the concept of 'pakikisama'. It’s about getting along with others and looking out for the group. It’s more than just being polite; it’s a way of creating harmony, building trust, and making sure everyone feels included. When pakikisama is practiced, teamwork becomes easier, communication flows better, and everyone benefits.

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