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In pictures: Philippines is in the heart

In Abu Dhabi, Philippine Ambassador Constancio R. Vingno Jr. led a lively celebration at Dalma Mall with thousands of kababayans treated to various games, prizes and a cultural show dedicated to Philippine's flag evolution.

Filipinos rank as the fourth largest expat community in the UAE. They came here because of better opportunities and to help their families back home but they never really left their native country in heart and in spirit.
This was evident at the Philippine Independence Day celebrations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi on Friday as thousands of Filipinos from all ages gathered at the Dubai World Trade Centre and Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi to celebrate the country's 118 years of independence after 333 years of colonial rule under Spain and the consequent establishment of the first constitutional republic in Asia.
"Nationalism knows no borders," Sharon Gay Magsino, host at the Dubai event, told Khaleej Times. "So, wherever we are, be it in the Philippines or elsewhere, our love for our native land is always there."
"We are also always ready to extend a helping hand to one another and here in the UAE, although we come from different parts of the Philippines, our hearts beat as one and we can proudly say that we come from a free country."
Genaro Velasquez, regional VP for Middle East and Europe of the national carrier, Philippine Airlines, said Filipinos are quite unique in the world because of so many outside influences but that's what also makes them special. And what's more special is that they always have this longing for their home country."
According to Consul-General Paul Raymund Cortes, close to 12,000 Filipinos joined in the celebration in Dubai where the Filipino community, led by event chairman Wafah Qasimieh, held a whole-day event of national dances, songs, painting contest, singing and extemporaneous speech competition. There was also a job fair which drew a massive crowd, and applicants queuing up at the break of dawn.
In Abu Dhabi, Philippine Ambassador Constancio R. Vingno Jr. led a lively celebration at Dalma Mall with thousands of kababayans treated to various games, prizes and a cultural show dedicated to Philippine's flag evolution.
Dr Eldino Alberto V. Caballes, chairman of 118th PIDC Committee, said focusing on the nation's history was an important theme in this year's event. "We have chosen to focus on the cultural heritage for Filipinos, who are staying away from home country, to refresh and understand our beginnings and why and how we became who we are today."
Abu Dhabi resident Camille Flores told Khaleej Times that the day has been a special one indeed. "It is beautiful seeing all these Filipino communities together." "Although we are far away from home, we are still able to feel like we are home."
Her sister Arlene added: "We often forget what our country has been through to gain its freedom. So it is really important that we have a special day like this, to commemorate and celebrate our people, and our history."
Photos by Shihab & Nezar Balout
reporters@khaleejtimes.com 

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