“Over the years, we’ve shared many moments side by side, not only during cable fault repairs but also while tackling complex network issues. These situations can be high pressure, but knowing we can rely on each other’s expertise makes all the difference”.
For the first time at FLAG, we’re celebrating not one but two incredible colleagues together. Virgilio Biron and Bernie San Pedro first worked side by side at FLAG nearly 30 years ago, building not just careers but a lasting friendship. Their story is one of dedication, trust, and the power of collaboration that has stood the test of time.
- Could you share some insights into your background and how you came to join FLAG?
Virgilio:
I have been in the telecommunication industry for a total 35 years, beginning in the Philippines, where I spent six years in roles including Acceptance Engineer at PLDT and working with ETSI on Siemens turnkey projects. My career includes spells in Saudi Arabia for Lucent, the UAE in Fujairah for FLAG, and Singapore for AsiaGlobalCrossing, AsiaNetcom, PACNET and Epsilon.
From 1997 to 2001, I served as a FNOC Engineer in Fujairah, UAE with FLAG Telecom, overseeing network operations. After a brief return to the Philippines and a significant 11-year tenure in Singapore, I rejoined FLAG Telecom in August 2013 as Senior Support Engineer for both Transmission/DWDM and Subsea Equipment including PFE and SLTEs.
Bernie
My career in the submarine cable system industry began in 1997, when I joined FLAG as an FNOC Shift Engineer in Fujairah, UAE, during the installation and commissioning of the FLAG Europe-Asia (FEA) submarine cable system where I was also part in building the first FLAG Network Operations Center.
Before joining FLAG, I spent 12 years with one of the largest telephone operators in the Philippines, focusing on the operation and maintenance of international transmission systems. I then moved to Saudi Arabia, where I worked on the Operations and Maintenance of SDH long-distance network of Saudi Telecom.
The opportunity to join FLAG felt like a natural progression—combining my telecom experience with a groundbreaking global submarine cable project. After about four years with FLAG, I returned to the Philippines to join another submarine cable system company, working on the EAC2 cable system. In 2006, I moved back to Dubai to join du Telecom, a landing party of FLAG, where I managed the cable station for the Falcon Cable System, one of FLAG’s private owned cable systems. In 2013, I relocated to Doha to take on new challenges, before finally rejoining FLAG in 2017 as part of the Technical Support Group and Marine Team. Looking back, my career has truly come full circle, and I’m proud to continue contributing to FLAG’s legacy in global connectivity.
- What motivates you in your role at FLAG, and how do you maintain your inspiration?
Virgilio
I feel motivated whenever I’m able to resolve an issue, especially when the solution has a significant impact, helping many people across the company (both Sales and Operations/Engineering Team) and contributing meaningful benefits to the organisation as a whole.
Each issue/technical problem or challenge presents a learning opportunity, and I take note of new techniques and insights gained during the resolution. These experiences build a valuable knowledge base that helps us to respond faster and smarter in future situations. The continuous learning and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges keep me inspired and engaged in my role.
Bernie
What motivates me most are the challenges we face whenever a major or minor issue arises in the network. Each time, I’m driven by the opportunity to be part of the solution. It’s especially rewarding when the issue resolves quickly and the sales team shares that our customers are satisfied because their services were restored quickly and efficiently. Knowing that my contribution helps restore and maintain critical global connectivity is a powerful motivator.
I maintain my inspiration through teamwork. Working with a dedicated, skilled team who share the same goals creates an environment where challenges are tackled collaboratively and successes are celebrated together. That sense of unity and shared purpose keeps me motivated every day.
- Is there a specific project or achievement at FLAG that you are particularly proud of?
Virgilio
At the top of my achievement is my participation in the 2nd CLS project for a specific Landing Station, truly one of a kind. To our knowledge, this design and implementation approach has never been done before by any other subsea network provider except FLAG.
Additionally, the recent decommissioning and dismantling of the Fujairah CLS stands out. While it’s not something I celebrate with pride, it carries a deep emotional weight for me. As we were part of its early days during commissioning and testing, and its completion closely aligned with the FEA Network’s Ready for Service (RFS) milestone on 6 October 1997. Until the decommissioning and dismantling of all Equipment.
I’ve known and worked together with Berni for a long time. Our strong work ethic and close collaboration, like that of good friends, instead of just colleagues, have made our teamwork more efficient and mutually beneficial. This montage of pictures captures some of the key milestones on that journey.
Bernie
One of the achievements I’m most proud of is our involvement in the FLAG Europe-Asia (FEA) system—from its installation and commissioning, through its operational lifecycle, and finally its decommissioning and dismantling. Being part of that full journey—seeing how it connected continents, supported customers for decades, and then carefully managing its closure—was both technically and personally rewarding.
Virgilio and I have been working together for almost three decades, starting back in the Philippines with the same company. We eventually parted ways when I moved to Dubai, but our paths crossed again when I rejoined FLAG. Today, Virgilio is my manager, and I’ve learned so much from him—especially the importance of having the right attitude toward work, building strong professional relationships, and maintaining professionalism.
Over the years, we’ve shared many moments side by side, not only during cable fault repairs but also while tackling complex network issues. These situations can be high pressure, but knowing we can rely on each other’s expertise makes all the difference.
What makes it truly enjoyable is the teamwork—we balance each other’s strengths and always work toward the same goal: keeping customers connected. At the end of the day, it’s not just about solving technical challenges; it’s about the trust and collaboration that make the journey rewarding.
- How do you approach challenges and overcome obstacles in your work?
Virgilio
As a Senior Engineer in Subsea Technical Services, facing challenges is part of my daily work. When a problem comes up, like unexpected equipment issues or working with different teams, take a step-by-step approach. I first look into the root cause using available data and technical checks. Then I focus on finding safe and practical solutions. I also work closely with colleagues to get different views and ideas. After solving the issue, I make sure we record what we learned so we can do better next time. This way of working helps me stay organised and deliver results, even under pressure
Bernie
I believe in staying calm, analytical, and collaborative. Submarine cable systems are highly complex, and challenges often require both technical expertise and teamwork. I focus on breaking down problems, leveraging collective knowledge, and staying adaptable. Experience has taught me that no challenge is insurmountable when approached with the right mindset.
- What role do your colleagues and team members play in your success at FLAG?
Virgilio
My colleagues and team members are a big part of my success at FLAG. In my role, working together is key, whether it’s sharing ideas, solving technical problems, or planning operations. I depend on their knowledge and support to get things done well. We work as a team, and that teamwork helps us solve challenges faster and come up with better solutions. I also learn a lot from them, which helps me grow in my job.
Bernie
A very big role. The submarine cable industry relies on teamwork across functions, time zones, and cultures. I’ve been fortunate to work with highly skilled colleagues who not only share knowledge but also support each other in high-pressure situations. Many of the successes I’ve experienced wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of the team.
- Are there any mentors or individuals who have had a significant impact on your career here?
Virgilio
Yes, I’ve had mentors and colleagues at FLAG who’ve made a big impact on my career. Their guidance, especially in technical decision-making and leadership, has helped me grow both professionally and personally. I’ve learned a lot from how they approach challenges, communicate with teams, and stay focused on delivering results. Their support and feedback have been key to my development.
Bernie
Yes, throughout my time at FLAG I’ve had the privilege of learning from senior colleagues and mentors who guided me technically and professionally. Their support shaped my approach to problem-solving, leadership, and continuous learning. I’m especially grateful to those who encouraged me to take on new challenges and responsibilities over the years.
- How has your role evolved since joining FLAG, and how have you grown as a professional?
Virgilio
Since joining FLAG, my role has grown in both responsibility and scope. I’ve taken on more complex projects, worked closely with different teams, and contributed to key technical decisions. This has helped me improve my problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and leadership abilities. I’ve also become more confident in handling challenges and mentoring others. Overall, I’ve grown into a more well-rounded professional.
Bernie
When I first joined FLAG in 1997 as an FNOC Shift Engineer, my focus was on day-to-day network monitoring and operations during the installation and commissioning of the FLAG Europe-Asia (FEA) system. It was a highly technical role where I gained hands-on experience with submarine cable operations at a critical stage of the project.
Over the years, my role has expanded significantly, from operations to managing cable stations, and now to providing technical support. This evolution has given me the chance to see the industry from multiple perspectives: operations, customer impact, system lifecycle management, and now network reliability and restoration.
As a professional, I’ve grown by embracing each challenge as a learning opportunity. From being part of the first FLAG NOC to representing FLAG during cable fault repairs, I’ve learned the importance of adaptability, teamwork, and leadership. Each step has shaped me into a more well-rounded engineer, with a deeper appreciation for how our work impacts global connectivity.
- What advice would you offer to new employees or those striving to excel in their careers at FLAG?
Virgilio
My advice to new employees or anyone aiming to grow at FLAG is to stay curious and open to learning. Take time to understand the systems, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to seek help from experienced colleagues. Building strong working relationships and being a team player really makes a difference. Also, take ownership of your work and look for ways to improve processes or solve problems. FLAG offers great opportunities. If you stay proactive and committed, growth will follow.
Bernie
Be curious, open to learning, and willing to collaborate. The submarine cable industry is both technically demanding and deeply rewarding. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, learn from experienced colleagues, and take ownership of your work. Above all, stay adaptable, technology and challenges evolve quickly, and success comes from being prepared to grow with them.
