In Dubai, Filipina pulls no punches in jokes on Mideast life

A Filipina comedian in Dubai is offering an unfiltered glimpse into the life, sly triumphs and slights faced by her 2.2 million compatriots across the Middle East

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates -- Peering out into the darkened audience of a Dubai bar, comedian Imah Dumagay leaned into the microphone and addressed the mistaken perception that many people have across the Middle East when they see a Filipina at a nightclub. “I am from the Philippines but I am not taking any orders tonight,” she said, drawing chuckles as her countrymen served beers and bar food at this rooftop bar in sight of Dubai's sail-shaped Burj Al-Arab luxury hotel. “Where is that guy asking for water earlier? Sir, we are not all waitresses.” She waited a beat and added: “But if you're looking for a maid, I'm available on Saturdays. I'm very good at cleaning; I clean from the ceiling down to your jewelry box.” Tucked within her slightly risqué set, Dumagay's rapid-fire punchlines offer an unfiltered glimpse into the life, sly triumphs and slights faced by her 2.2 million compatriots. They care for children, wait tables and otherwise power economies across the wider Middle East. Those Filipinos provide billions of dollars in remittances back to their families still living in the Philippines, but face abuse and isolation in countries that often treat them as a disposable, low-paid workforce.