H E Lillibeth Pono, the Philippine Ambassador to Qatar (third right), alongside other officials led the cake cutting-ceremony marking the celebration of the 125th Philippine Independence Day in Qatar. The event was held at Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel.
Doha, Qatar: The 125th Philippine Independence Day was celebrated in Qatar yesterday, showcasing the rich culture, delectable cuisine, lively fashion, and colourful festivals that define the Philippines. The day-long event, attended by thousands, captivated attendees with its diverse activities and commemorated the freedom cherished by Filipinos.
To kick-off the celebration, a cake-cutting ceremony was led by H E Lillibeth Pono, the Philippine Ambassador to Qatar, alongside other distinguished officials.
The Philippine Independence Day Organising Committee Chairman, Jyerex Abrasado, delivered an opening speech emphasising the unity and love shared by the Filipino community in Qatar.
Abrasado said, “It’s heartwarming to witness our community coming together to celebrate the freedom we enjoy. Let us remember the sacrifices made by our ancestors and use this freedom to bring honour to our beloved country, the Philippines. May it inspire us to contribute to the development of our countrymen.”
The festivities took place at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, commencing at 6am with Almusalang Bayan (Community Breakfast). The day unfolded with the Parada ng Kalayaan (Community Parade), Tribute to the Celebration, Community Dance, Regional Exhibits, and Traditional Filipino Games.
The event’s lineup also featured Cultural Presentations, Cultural Dance Demonstrations, the Battle of Filipino Bands, Vocal Solo Contest, and the Awarding of Filipino Achievers 2023, culminating in the crowning of Mr. and Ms. Philippine Independence Day 2023.
Government service booths, representing agencies such as the Social Security System (SSS), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund), and the Department of Tourism, were present at the celebration, providing information and support to the attendees.
The overarching theme for this year’s event was “Fiesta Filipinas” (Philippine Festivals), allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant heritage and lively spirit of the Southeast Asian nation.
Numerous Filipinos expressed their joy at attending the Philippine Independence Day celebration in Qatar. Sandy, from Pampanga, said: “It was a remarkable event, like being transported back to the Philippines. Everything here revolves around my beloved country. I hope they continue this tradition next year!”
Anthony, originally from Zambales, shared his sentiments, saying: “This celebration truly embodies the theme ‘Fiesta Filipinas.’ It made me miss home, but I’m also thrilled by the growing Filipino community here in Qatar. I particularly enjoyed the Filipino food and the Battle of the Bands; it truly felt like being in my home country.”
The Philippine Independence Day 2023 celebration in Qatar was organised by the Philippine Business Council, which led the coordination of various activities and ensured the success of the event. In the Philippines, Independence Day is observed annually on June 12, and this year’s theme, “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan” (Freedom. Future. History), encapsulated the spirit of the celebration.
