My name is Grail Bulay Sabado, a Filipina career woman who began my journey with APECO in May 2019. Before coming to Singapore, I spent more than 10 years in the Philippines in an aerospace manufacturing company. I was already comfortable in that environment.
Leaving my country was never part of my plan, but deep inside, I knew I needed change—to grow, challenge myself, and explore a different path. That decision brought me to Singapore.
During my first four days in Singapore, I received job offers higher than APECO’s. However, even before arriving, I had already reached out to Mr. Tony to ask about opportunities in APECO, despite my experience not being related to EPCC. When he told me to approach him once I arrived, I held on to that. I chose APECO—not for the compensation, but because I believed it was the right place for me to grow.
I joined as a PRO cum Planner for the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction of two 48” pipelines and ancillary facilities at Jurong Rock Caverns. I had zero knowledge of the EPCC industry and was honestly afraid I might fail. But on my first day, I was welcomed by smiling faces from different nationalities and backgrounds—people I had never worked with before. That moment made me feel at ease and that this could be my second home.
Starting from zero in a completely new industry was not easy. I didn’t even know the software I would be using. But APECO invested in me—they arranged training, and my boss and colleagues patiently guided me and shared their knowledge. That was the beginning of my journey in the oil and gas industry.
Seven months after I arrived, COVID-19 began. Travel stopped, and many companies faced retrenchment. My brother’s salary was cut, but APECO stood strong. The company did not retrench employees or cut salaries, even during uncertain times. That was when I realized I made the right decision. I always tell myself, “There is always a reason for everything.”
Beyond technical knowledge, what truly shaped me in APECO is its diversity. Working with people from different cultures and backgrounds broadened my perspective and taught me how to adapt and collaborate. I realized that diversity is not a challenge—it is a strength that makes the workplace more dynamic and resilient.
After successfully completing our project in Jurong Island, I joined the AMK District Cooling Plant project, where I continued to learn and grow under a different team and environment. Both projects were demanding, but I believe that with passion, even challenges become meaningful.
What I appreciate most about APECO is how the company values its people. Despite the workload, they create opportunities to connect and recharge through activities like dinner and dance, “Walk as One,” and other wellness programs. These moments remind us that we are more than colleagues—we are a TEAM.
Over time, my role expanded beyond planning to include administrative responsibilities. I embraced these because I believe that when a company supports and motivates its people, employees naturally give their best.
Today, I can proudly say that APECO is more than just a workplace for me—it is where I grew, found purpose, and became part of a diverse and supportive family.
Indeed, in times of difficulties and happiness, we are One APECO, One Family.
