Dubai, United Arab Emirates — At 52 years old, after more than two decades of sacrifice, hard work, and quiet courage, a Filipina mother finally stood under the spotlight.
And this time…
It was her moment.
Nora Tuquib Manliguis, a driving instructor, overseas Filipino worker for 21 years, and a single mother of four, was crowned SuperMom UAE 2025 — a title that perfectly reflects the life she has lived.
Known in the UAE as the Imelda Papin look-alike, Nora shone among 10 inspiring OFW mothers in a pageant created to honor women who raise families far from home.
She didn’t just win a crown.
She won hearts.
“Ngiti Lang Lagi”
When asked about her journey, Nora kept it simple.
She said she enjoyed every moment.
She smiled on stage.
She made new friends.
And maybe that’s why she stood out.
That warmth — genuine and effortless — helped her earn not just the crown, but multiple awards: Best Smile, Best in Casual Wear, Best in Long Gown, and Best in Production.
But behind that smile…
Is a story carved by hardship.
A Life That Began With Struggle
Nora is the youngest of seven siblings from Surigao del Norte. She only finished elementary school. She was adopted at six months old and experienced hardship early in life.
She married at just 15.
Later, she became a single mother.
Still, she refused to give up.
She came to the UAE searching for a better future — not for herself alone, but for her children.
Every Job Was a Step Forward
In the UAE, Nora didn’t stop learning.
She earned a diploma as a nursing assistant.
She taught cosmetology for six years.
She drove a taxi for two years.
And for the past 13 years, she has worked as a driving instructor — teaching others while steering her own life forward.
She lives in Ajman, two hours away from Dubai by bus, yet remains active in the Filipino community. Wherever help is needed, she shows up.
A Mother’s Greatest Victory
All four of Nora’s children are now college graduates.
Two sons.
Two daughters.
They finished degrees in IT engineering, tourism, and mechanics — all made possible by her sacrifices as an OFW. Three are now in the UAE, and the youngest will soon join them.
There were moments she almost broke.
She recalls how GMA’s Mel Tiangco once helped her when her daughter needed urgent medical care at the National Children’s Hospital.
Still, she pushed forward.
“Proud ako sa aking mga anak,” she said.
Her voice heavy with emotion.
They finished college because of her patience, endurance, and love.
Still Serving, Still Dreaming
Today, Nora continues working as a driving instructor. She still serves the community. She still joins singing contests. And now, she is preparing for retirement — planning to invest in land back home in the Philippines.
She is no longer just surviving.
She is building a future.
More Than a Crown
SuperMom UAE 2025 is not just a title.
It is recognition of a woman who endured quietly.
Who worked endlessly.
Who raised children into professionals — alone.
Nora Manliguis’ story reminds us that real queens are not born on stage.
They are forged
in sacrifice,
in struggle,
and in love.
