Dubai's Filipino expatriates are poised for a weekend of jubilation as they commemorate the 126th Philippine Independence Day at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Celebrating their vibrant cultural tapestry and unwavering patriotism, the community is set to host back-to-back events, inviting all to join in the festivities.
Celebrating Philippine Independence Day in Dubai
Filipino expatriates in Dubai are gearing up for a weekend of festivities as they mark the 126th Philippine Independence Day at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Showcasing their rich cultural heritage and deep patriotic spirit, the community will host two consecutive celebrations to commemorate this significant event.
Themed 'Filipino Pride: Embracing Diversity, Celebrating Unity, and Love of Country', the Filipino Social Club (FilSoc) is organizing a grand event on Saturday, June 8, at Zabeel Hall 3, DWTC. On Sunday, another community event, Kalayaan (Freedom) 2024, will also be held at DWTC. Everyone is welcome to attend either event as it is free of charge and open to the public.
Organizers emphasize that the celebrations are not just about showcasing Filipino traditions through cultural presentations but also about highlighting the ongoing contributions of overseas Filipinos in nation-building, particularly in the UAE.
The festivities come ahead of the official commemoration of Philippine Independence Day on June 12, the historic day when the country declared freedom from 333 years of Spanish colonial rule, becoming the first republic in Asia in 1898.
According to FilSoc president Ericson Reyes, the day-long event promises a diverse array of cultural presentations, including the Kalayaan choir competition, Barong at Filipiniana Fashion Show, and the 'WeBelong Catwalk', a fashion show featuring Filipino People of Determination as models.
Attendees can also participate in an on-the-spot painting contest, witness robotics displays in the Likha ng Siyensiya competition, admire Pinoy bike shows, experience Filipino street arts, enjoy the Peryahan sa Kalayaan, indulge in Pinoy food at the bazaar, and avail themselves of free basic medical check-ups.
A Weekend of Unity and Celebration
In addition to the festivities at DWTC, there will be other activities taking place around Dubai, including a yacht fluvial parade at Dubai Harbour Marina, the PH-Asean Kalayaan Football Cup, and the Kalayaan Youth Basketball and Volleyball Tournament on Sunday.
Overall, the weekend celebrations serve not only as a time to honor Philippine Independence Day but also as an opportunity for the Filipino community in Dubai to come together, celebrate their culture and heritage, and strengthen bonds of unity and camaraderie.