The person behind PinoyRemote

Hi, I’m Jean. Here’s what five years of freelancing taught me.

I’m Jean Aguilar, a Filipina virtual assistant based in Cavite. I started with data entry and research in 2020, then moved into Shopify and operations roles across advertising and fintech. I now work on AI automation projects alongside my VA career. I created PinoyRemote to share practical guidance based on what I have learned.

Jean Aguilar, founder of PinoyRemote, working on her MacBook in Cavite
2020
Started working as a VA
5+ years
Working with remote clients
4 fields
VA, Shopify, agency, and fintech operations
Cavite
Based in the Philippines
My experience

How my work has evolved

I did not follow a fixed career plan. Each role taught me skills that now shape the advice I share on PinoyRemote.

2020 · The start

Data-entry VA during the pandemic

I began with data entry and lead research while working full-time. After my regular shift, I spent around four hours working for my first client.

Moving up

Shopify manager

I created product pages, researched products, managed order fulfillment, and learned basic Shopify Liquid so I could handle more of the work independently. As my skills and responsibilities grew, so did the kind of work I was trusted to manage.

Into operations

Operations Manager, advertising agencies

I managed client requests, supported teams, and helped resolve day-to-day problems. The role taught me to communicate clearly, stay calm under pressure, and bring possible solutions when issues came up.

Higher trust

Operations Manager, FinTech

I later moved into operations roles at fintech companies, where I gained a closer understanding of payment systems and business processes. That experience informs some of the payment content on PinoyRemote.

Now

Building AI automations on the side

I continue to work as a VA while developing AI automation projects. I use what I learn across both areas to keep the guidance on PinoyRemote practical and current.

Why this site exists

What you can expect from PinoyRemote

Practical guidance for Filipinos building a career online.

Clear numbers and practical examples

Guides include relevant fees, tax examples, and payment details so you can understand the costs before making a decision.

Guidance for Filipino remote workers

Topics include OnlineJobs.ph, GCash, Wise, Payoneer, BIR registration, taxes, and working across time zones.

Experience supported by reliable sources

I share first-hand experience where it is relevant and use official or credible sources for facts that can change. If something cannot be confirmed, I do not present it as fact.

Start where you are

Find the guide that fits your next step.

If you’re new to VA work, begin with the starter roadmap. You can also browse guides on finding clients, receiving payments, and managing taxes.