Some people inspire with what they do. Others, like Pearl Gomez-Ontalan, inspire with who they’ve become through what they’ve endured.
At first glance, Pearl’s story might seem like a classic success narrative — a woman from Manila who built a flourishing career in sales and advertising, then courageously moved to the United States to start anew.
She worked in corporate marketing, organized cultural events, mentored others, and volunteered tirelessly. But beneath these accomplishments lies a quieter, deeper truth: Pearl is a survivor — not just of change, but of cancer. And her spirit has not only endured; it has thrived.
A Leap of Faith Amid Growing Unrest
Pearl’s journey began in Manila, where she crafted a life filled with creativity and purpose. A broadcast graduate of UP Diliman, she launched her career producing commercials for leading brands, taught Filipino literature, and directed plays at a local college. Life was busy, fulfilling, and full of promise.
But in 1984, amid the political turmoil and uncertainty following the assassination of former Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Pearl and her husband made a life-altering choice: to start over in America.
“It was turbulent back home,” she recalls. “My sister in New Jersey encouraged us to try life in the U.S., so we took that leap of faith.”
At first, the transition was disorienting. The sprawling highways, unfamiliar customs, and even simple things — like being asked to choose between rye, sourdough, or multigrain bread — reminded her how far she was from home. Yet, she adapted. She learned the geography of a new country, took computer classes, and slowly rebuilt a new life.
From Starting Over to Soaring Again
Her first job in the U.S. was with Nabisco, working in sales and marketing — still within her field of passion. Later, she moved to Post Foods Cereals, organizing events, mentoring colleagues, and leading cultural programs.
Through it all, she carried her Filipino identity proudly — championing Asian American Heritage Month, celebrating traditions through dance, music, and food, and sharing her culture with warmth and pride.
“It was a steep learning curve,” she says. “But I was blessed with progressive, open-minded employers who believed in development. And I stayed grounded in my values.”
The immigrant journey, however, was more than professional adaptation. It was deeply personal. Far from home, Pearl leaned more on faith, community, and purpose.
Celebrating Culture and Community in the Workplace
For Pearl, some of the most meaningful milestones in her professional journey weren’t tied to promotions or performance metrics—they were rooted in culture, community, and connection.
During her years with Kraft Nabisco and later Post Foods, Pearl became a driving force behind workplace inclusion and cultural appreciation. One of her proudest contributions was chairing the Asian American Employee Forum during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, celebrated each May in the U.S.
In the early 2000s, Pearl led efforts to bring Asian traditions to life within the corporate setting. Each year, she organized vibrant cultural showcases featuring a mix of food, music, dance, and heritage education. From Japanese tea ceremonies to Chinese cultural performances, the events were thoughtfully curated to promote learning and engagement among employees.
Pearl’s events weren’t just informative—they were immersive. Colleagues learned how to roll sushi, listened to the melodies of the rondalla, and gained a new appreciation for the diverse cultures that make up the Asian diaspora. These experiences opened minds and hearts, creating stronger connections across the workforce.
Her dedication was recognized with the ABCD Award (Above and Beyond the Call of Duty) for three consecutive years—2005, 2006, and 2007—a testament to the impact of her work.
At Post Foods, Pearl continued her commitment to meaningful engagement through another avenue: the company’s “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work” program. Held every April, this two-day event welcomed employees’ children into the workplace for hands-on learning. Pearl took charge of organizing interactive seminars and demonstrations that introduced the young visitors to the world of cereal production.
Though now retired, Pearl looks back on these contributions with pride. Her legacy is one of cultural celebration, education, and meaningful connection—proof that even in a corporate environment, there’s room for heart, heritage, and humanity.
Refined by Illness, Lifted by Faith
As if starting over in a new country wasn’t enough, Pearl later faced one of life’s hardest trials: a cancer diagnosis.
“It’s been 14 years since my surgery,” she says quietly, “and I thank God every single day.”
For Pearl, the battle went beyond the physical — it was spiritual. She describes it as a period of refining, when her faith deepened through pain, and her purpose became clearer through suffering.
“There’s a verse in James that says, ‘Consider it pure joy when you undergo trials.’ Because trials shape your character and make you better than gold.”
This outlook — not bitterness but gratitude — defines Pearl. She acknowledges hardship without being defeated by it.
Strength in Simplicity
Her advice to others is simple but profound:
“Even just 10 minutes a day to pray,” she says. “Find that quiet time to acknowledge that God is with you — through the joy, the sorrow, the mess.”
Whether confronting immigration, illness, or loss, Pearl turns to faith, connection, and kindness as her sources of strength. She encourages others to find their niche, be part of something larger, and never underestimate the power of community.
“No one should walk alone. We all need each other. And today, we need more compassion than ever.”
A Life Rebuilt, A Spirit Renewed
Pearl’s story is not just about survival — it’s about becoming. A woman who crossed continents, overcame fear, rebuilt her life, battled cancer, and never lost faith in God or purpose.
“Look up to the Lord and move forward,” she says.
“Be strong. Be courageous. He will guide you.”
From the quiet streets to corporate halls in New Jersey, from Manila’s stages to Sunday school classrooms, Pearl shines — not despite her trials, but because of how she rose through them.
A woman of heart, hope, and unwavering grace — she is truly a life refined better than gold.
