Sanctuary Bistro: Meet The Staff: Flo

We are so lucky to have added Flo to the team, who is working in the office with me. Together in our tiny little space we get so much done. She is an amazing human and such a loving and kind person. I am grateful to work side by side with her. Say hi and introduce yourself to her in the office on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.  - Jennifer

Birth of Flo and Manila, Philippines

I was born and raised in Manila, Philippines. It's a country with 7,107 islands, lots of sunshine (and typhoons too), white sand beaches, 19 regional languages, and fun-loving people. Filipinos are known for their warm hospitality and devotion to Catholicism (three Popes had visited, I witnessed one).Manila, being its capital, is an urban jungle of dirty politics, progressive BPOs (business process outsourcing), booming real estate, exciting nightlife, and the craziest traffic condition. When I moved in the US, I was told that if I know how to drive in the busiest thoroughfares in Manila, then I can definitely drive in the US...I just need to follow the rules. Yes, it may sound crazy but there are no rules (or no discipline) in driving in the Philippines...that is why there's heavy traffic. Despite that, Filipinos are known to be resilient - we managed to survive the perennial problems of traffic, government corruption, and strong typhoons.

Going with the Flo

Free time is usually spent watching sports (we are SF Giants fans), tv and movies, going to the gym, doing yoga, riding bikes, running around Lake Merritt, or just sleeping in especially on a lazy Sunday. My husband and I used to join marathon races and group bike rides before we got married. I even did two triathlons just a few months before our wedding. The training helped in keeping me look lean and tanned for our wedding day but too much time spent in the pool ruined my hair LOL. We may have slowed down since we got married in 2013 but we plan to be active again by next year (aiming for a half marathon). I must say marriage made us a little dormant. Who would not want to just stay home and relax with your special someone?

Working at Sanctuary

I was drawn to the positive, cozy, and family atmosphere in Sanctuary Bistro. I felt it even by just reading about its early beginnings and its support to community causes. It was even validated after meeting the hardworking team behind its success. Having worked for our own small family business as well, I know how an owner's passion can be inspiring and infectious, spreading the same commitment to its team.I am passionate about constantly improving oneself to help others. I have my highs and lows but the drive to do more is always strong.  I am forever grateful to have the opportunity to do more meaningful service to others.