A Celebration of Heritage and Friendship

Observer

a day ago

The moment you stepped into the grand hall of the Sheraton Hotel in Muscat on June 4, 2025, there was an immediate sense of vibrancy and warmth that filled the air. As if the colours of over 7,000 islands had gathered in one place, the entrance was lined with stalls bursting with Filipino cuisine, each offering traditional dishes that beckoned like an invitation—aromatic, colourful, and full of stories. The lively chatter and infectious smile of Filipinos—posters, banners, and handmade crafts—created an atmosphere that felt more like a lively festival than a formal celebration. The sights and smells pulled everyone into a shared experience: a moment to honour history, culture, and ongoing friendship.
This event, which brought together representatives from both nations at the Sheraton Hotel in Muscat, marked two important milestones. First, the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence—an ode to resilience, hope, and a rich cultural history rooted in shared stories of struggle and triumph. And second, the 45th year since diplomatic relations officially blossomed between the Philippines and Oman, a relationship built on cooperation, understanding, and mutual benefit.
Under the patronage of His Excellency Dr Nasser Rashid al Maawali, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy of Oman, and with a delegation of distinguished officials, the event isn't just a celebration; it's a reflection of two nations that have grown ever closer across decades.
Bridging Continents: 45 Years of Collaboration and Growth
Looking back over the past four and a half decades, the relationship between Oman and the Philippines has expanded far beyond diplomatic courtesies. It's a journey grounded in shared economic interests, cultural exchange, and the contribution of Filipinos in Oman's development. Today, nearly 50,000 Filipinos work across Oman—teachers, engineers, healthcare workers, accountants, and service industry professionals—each one a bridge that connects the two countries through daily exchange, hard work, and friendship.
Over the years, Oman and the Philippines signed several key agreements that solidified their ties. These included labour agreements ensuring the welfare of Filipino workers, cooperation in trade and investment, cultural exchanges, and collaborations in tourism. Such measures have allowed both countries to benefit from each other's strengths—Oman's strategic position and growing economy, and the Philippines' vibrant culture and human resources.
In his speech, Philippine Ambassador to Oman, His Excellency Raul S. Hernandez, expressed heartfelt thanks to the Omani government. He praised Oman's ongoing support for Filipino workers and the government's commitment to maintaining a welcoming environment. Ambassador Hernandez also emphasised the importance of continuing the dialogue and cooperation to foster mutual growth, citing new opportunities that could strengthen the partnership further.
A Night of Culture, Music, and Culinary Delights
The highlight of this celebration was not just the speeches and formalities but the evening's programme—an immersive showcase of Filipino culture through music, dance, and food. As the night unfolded, performers from the Philippines took to the stage, revealing the rich musical repertoire that spans traditional folk songs, lively jazz, and contemporary pop. Local and overseas-based Filipino musicians, many of whom are promising talents, shared their craft, creating an electric and heartfelt atmosphere.
Of particular cultural significance was the performance of "Singkil," a traditional dance rooted in the Muslim community of southern Philippines. The dance features intricate footwork, flowing movements, and the use of decorative umbrellas and waist bells. It tells a story of Queen Mantsa and her noble retinue, symbolising grace, strength, and the cultural diversity of the Philippines. Its inclusion in the programme was a deliberate effort to highlight the importance of Muslim heritage in Filipino history—an acknowledgment of the country's diversity and the unity within its different communities.
Adding to the evening's vibrancy were performances by students from the Philippine School in Oman. Their participation demonstrated the enthusiasm and pride of the Filipino youth in sharing their culture and storytelling traditions with the wider Omani community—further cementing the bonds that communities help forge between nations.
On the culinary front, guests were treated to a selection of beloved Filipino dishes. The aroma of crispy fried adobo, rich kare-kare with its peanut sauce, and freshly prepared lumpia drifted through the hall. Desserts like leche flan, halo-halo, and beautifully crafted Filipino sweets were shared, delighting guests from Oman and the Philippines alike. The Omani attendees, some trying Filipino delicacies for the first time, expressed their approval and eagerness to explore more. The food was not just a taste but a sensory journey into Filipino life and culture, stirring conversations and some good-natured comparisons with local Omani cuisine.