Former OFW worked way up to build own construction firm

Hector Reyes is a former overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in the Middle East who, as they say, literally built his dreams from the ground up.

- CONRADO DIAZ JR.

Starting as a mechanical fitter, Reyes transformed his vision into reality, working his way up to lead an emerging construction firm in his own home.

In 1994, Reyes founded Reytech Construction & Development Corp., which quickly established itself as a competent and reliable construction partner, boasting over 100 projects under its belt with a 100-percent completion rate. The wellearned reputation for quality and reliability has helped the firm establish an extensive portfolio of industrial projects of industrial projects that involve the construction of warehouses and plants for industry leaders such as Interflour Philippines, Agri Pacific Corp. for Rebisco, Victory Supply Chain Inc. and Sorosoro Ibaba Development Cooperative (SIDC) - one of the biggest cooperatives in Batangas.

It counts Siemens, JG Summit, Minola Refining Corp. and First Gas Power Corp., as some of its most loyal clients. Reytech has also been expanding this list of notable partners in commercial sectors with Landers Superstore, BB. Q Chicken, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Philippines and Kuya J Restaurant.

Far from being an overnight success story, Reyes began his journey like most OFWs in the construction industry do - by working abroad to provide a better future for his family.

He first started as a mechanical fitter at an oil refinery in Kuwait, deploying to the country at a young working age. "I knew that working abroad would help me become more confident and independent, and allow me to develop my skills and expertise," Reyes said. He eventually became a foreman and later earned a supervisory position overseeing the installation of pipe works, large steel structures and refinery equipment.