The Filipino Social Club-Dubai organized a grand celebration of Philippine Independence Day at the Dubai World Trade Centre, drawing thousands of Filipinos to a vibrant and culturally rich one-day event. The celebration highlighted the deep-rooted Filipino spirit and heritage in the UAE, showcasing an array of activities and performances that brought the community together.
The event was graced by distinguished guests including His Excellency Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the UAE, Hon. Marford M. Angeles, Consul General of the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and Northern Emirates, Atty. John Rio A. Bautista, Head Labor Attaché of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Dubai and Northern Emirates (POLO), along with delegates from Dubai's Community Development Authority (CDA) Head Leaders, and His Highness Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi of Ajman. Other Philippine Government dignitaries were also in attendance, emphasizing the strong ties between the Philippines and the UAE.
Filipina actress and singer Janella Salvador added a touch of glamour to the event with her stellar performance, much to the delight of the attendees.
Event Highlights
The celebration featured a variety of on-stage segments, including:
Kalayaan Choir Competition: A showcase of harmonious talents.
The Best of Philippine Festivals: A colorful display of Filipino culture.
Battle of the Champs Singing Contest: A competition of vocal prowess.
Mr. and Ms. Kalayaan 2024: A pageant celebrating beauty and intelligence.
Inter-School Speech Choir Competition: A platform for young orators.
Munting Ginoo at Bb. Kalayaan 2024: A Barong and Filipiniana fashion show for children.
Mabuhay Awards 2024: Recognition of outstanding individuals and organizations.
“WeBelong Catwalk”: A fashion show featuring the Filipino Deaf Community as models.
The event also included various segments in the Fiestahan Village such as:
On the Spot Painting Contest: A display of artistic talent.
Likhang Siyensiya (Robotics and Innovation Challenge): Encouraging creativity and innovation.
Pinoy Bike Display Contest: Celebrating Filipino ingenuity in biking.
Balloon Art Display Contest: Showcasing balloon artistry.
Hair and Make-up Competition: Highlighting beauty skills.
Kalyer Arte: Street art exhibition.
Children Face Painting Contest: Fun for the little ones.
In the OFW Corner, attendees enjoyed:
Peryahan sa Kalayaan: Traditional Filipino fair games.
Libreng Gupit and Libreng Masahe: Free haircuts and massages.
Pinoy Street Foods and Kakanin Corner: Authentic Filipino street food and delicacies.
Pinoy Bazaar, Brands and Trade Exhibit: A marketplace for Filipino products.
Philippine Government Services: Access to essential government services.
Free Basic Medical Check-up: Health services for attendees.
Autism Kids Corner “Ausome Community”: Support and activities for children with autism.
Filipino Deaf Community Corner: Inclusive activities for the Deaf community.
Other notable segments included the Unity Parade featuring Filipino schools, groups, and the ASEAN community, Filipino Schools Drum and Lyre Show, Pilipinas Drum and Bugle Corps, and the Colorful Regional Parade.
The Kalayaan Sports Festival saw competitions in:
Philippine - ASEAN Football Tournament
Kalayaan Youth Basketball and Volleyball Tournament
Chess Tournament
Kalayaan Bowling Tournament
Additional activities such as the Fluvial Yachts Parade and SKY Dive Philippine Flag Display on June 9, 2024, and the Philippine Independence Day Mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on June 16, 2024, as well as an “OFW Night”, added further excitement to the celebrations.
The Philippine Independence Day celebration in Dubai was a resounding success, fostering a sense of community and pride among Filipinos in the UAE while honoring the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.
Browse the photos below:
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