21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
From Albay to Airwaves: How RJ Francis is amplifying Filipino voice in Qatar
Darlene Regis
When a 10-year-old starts stringing cable wires across his neighbourhood to broadcast from his bedroom, you know he's destined for the spotlight.
Fast forward to today, and that same curious kid — now known as RJ Francis — has become the familiar voice many Filipinos in Qatar start their day with, share laughs with, and feel seen by.
Hailing from Albay, The Philippines, RJ Francis has spent over six years abroad not only building a career in media, but also anchoring a growing platform for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to connect, express, and thrive.
In an exclusive with Qatar Tribune, he shares his journey from humble roots to becoming a radio anchor, host, and founder of Cuecastt, a platform empowering voices across the Filipino diaspora.
What brought you to Qatar, and how did it shape your media and community journey?
I came to Qatar in search of better opportunities. Media and community involvement have always been part of me. Moving here reignited that passion, allowing me to continue doing what I love, while giving back to the community.
Radio broadcasting king
During his tenure at Qabayan Radio, RJ wasn't just a DJ— he was a bridge for OFWs. From cracking jokes and playing nostalgic OPM hits to tackling serious community topics, his show became a daily staple.
How did your journey in radio begin?
I began my radio journey as a college freshman, inspired by the DJs I grew up listening to. But my passion for public speaking and hosting started much earlier — in high school and even as a 10-year-old imitating radio DJs and TV voiceovers. I built a DIY setup, wiring speakers around the neighbourhood to broadcast from home, and memorised TV lines to mimic the voices I admired. Looking back, those early passions and playful mic experiments clearly shaped the path I'm on today.
How do you connect with your listeners, and what feedback resonated with you?
At Qabayan Radio, connecting with the audience meant more than being on air. It was about making them feel heard and valued. I engaged through social media, events, and daily conversations. One listener said my voice helped them feel closer to home. With lighthearted jokes and relatable stories, I became part of many kababayans' daily routine. Balancing humor with sincerity reminded me of the vital role we play in bringing comfort and connection to the Filipino community abroad.
What challenges have you faced in your radio career?
Staying relevant in a fast-changing media landscape is one of radio's biggest challenges, along with the pressure to deliver fresh content while juggling personal and professional demands. I overcome this by adapting to trends, using digital tools, staying connected with the community, and staying true to my purpose — to inform, entertain, and inspire.
Tell us about a meaningful moment in your career.
One memorable moment was when listeners thanked me for advice that helped them see life differently or find strength. Others said the songs reminded them of home and simpler times. These moments deeply moved me, reinforcing my responsibility as a radio personality and inspiring me to be more intentional, empathetic, and committed to serving our audience.
CUECASTT TRAILBLAZER
When RJ Francis left mainstream radio, he co-founded Cuecastt, a podcast platform for untold stories. What started as a side project now features big names like ONE Championship stars, Gilas Pilipinas icons, and Filipino celebrities.
What inspired you to start Cuecastt?
Cuecastt began as a spontaneous idea inspired by my social media friends. After leaving traditional radio, I wanted to keep my voice alive and saw digital platforms as a powerful tool to connect and inspire. Despite many doubts, we stayed focused, proving Cuecastt is more than content — it's empowerment.
What topics do you cover on Cuecastt, and what do listeners take away?
Cuecastt covers diverse topics — from inspiring people and culture to major events. We've featured guests like ONE Championship fighters Denice Zamboanga, Joshua Pacio, and Eduard Folayang; executives Chatri Sityodtong and Hua Fung Teh; international personalities Mitch Chilson and Dom Lau; Gilas coach Tim Cone and players; and local celebrities Gian Bernardino and Bela Padilla. I hope listeners leave each episode inspired, informed, and connected.
How do you empower Filipinos through your platform?
Through Cuecastt, I empower Filipinos by sharing success stories, promoting local talent, and highlighting important causes. My goal is to inform, entertain, and uplift the community, making every Filipino feel seen, heard, and inspired.
What's next for Cuecastt?
I aspire for Cuecastt to be a top Filipino digital platform that entertains, educates, empowers, and connects communities in Qatar and beyond. I plan to grow through collaborations, live events, and visual content, featuring voices from everyday heroes to global changemakers—creating a space where stories inspire pride and belonging.
HOSTING PRO
Beyond podcasting and radio, RJ is a seasoned event host known for his genuine connection.
What does hosting mean to you?
For me, hosting is about creating genuine connections that make people feel seen and heard. Whether on stage, air, or online, it's a way to share stories, build community, celebrate culture, and inspire action. Hosting is a calling that defines who I am and how I serve others.
How did your hosting journey begin?
My hosting journey began in high school when a teacher asked me to host an event. Gaining confidence, I took on more roles through school, college, and radio. Soon, I hosted major events with artists, bands, and political figures. Hosting became a true passion and key part of my life.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Through mentorship and outreach for distressed OFWs, RJ has made his platform a catalyst for positive change.
Have you led or joined any outreach programs?
Yes, we work with Qatar organizations to support distressed OFWs and partner with Filipino influencers on projects like CUE101, which mentors aspiring podcasters. This is just the start—more initiatives to support Filipinos are on the way.
What achievements are you most proud of?
I'm proud to use my voice to inspire and connect—on air, at events, through Cuecastt, and in outreach for OFWs and creators. Grateful to my Cuecastt and SGE teams for their support, and above all, to God for guiding this journey. Knowing our work touches hearts and sparks change is my greatest achievement.
BEHIND THE MIC
Quiet off-air, powerful on-air—this is RJ Francis's story.
'I'm actually very quiet,' he laughs. 'Most people don't know I used to be a dancer—and I'm a frustrated singer, too!'
What's something most people don't know about you off-air?
Believe it or not—off-air, I'm actually more quiet and reserved. Within my circle of friends, I tend to be the listener rather than the talker. But on mic, my energy changes. Few know I was in a dance group back in the Philippines, winning competitions. Though a 'frustrated singer,' I still belt out tunes when no one's watching!
What keeps you grounded and passionate about media and community service?
What keeps me grounded is remembering my purpose: giving voice to important stories and uplifting Filipinos far from home. Every message and thank-you reminds me why I do this. I'm also inspired by my Cuecastt team, the SGE family, and our community, whose passion fuels mine and shows that media is a calling to serve and connect.
What is your advice for Filipinos entering broadcasting in Qatar?
To young Filipinos entering broadcasting in Qatar: Be passionate, humble, and true to your purpose. Connect, serve, inspire. Start small, learn from mistakes, and welcome feedback. Keep your integrity—it sets you apart. Build real relationships, represent our community proudly. Use your voice to uplift and create change. And never lose your smile — it shows your passion.