Latest news with #AlfonsoFerdinandA.Ver
Khaleej Times
13-04-2025
- Politics
- Khaleej Times
Philippine elections: First day of online voting saw promising turnout from Filipinos in UAE, says ambassador
The first day of the historic online voting for overseas Filipinos in the UAE that kicked off on Sunday 'saw a promising turnout, despite some technical issues,' Philippine ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver told Khaleej Times. This is the first time internet voting is being held for registered overseas Filipino voters to select their next national and sectoral leaders. This means no more queues at the Philippine missions to cast ballots. 'The first day of overseas online voting started with some technical issues but we were not deterred, and these issues were immediately addressed by the Philippine Commission on Elections' (Comelec) 24/7 tech support,' Ver said. He added: 'I am not allowed to tell the initial turnout of voters, but it was a promising turnout, and more importantly it helped in accelerating the rate of online enrollment, which can still be done until May 7.' To participate in online voting, eligible Filipino citizens in the UAE must be registered overseas voters and enlisted under the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate-General in Dubai. Then, they have to pre-enroll on the Comelec voting portal ( to verify and confirm their details. This step takes not more than five minutes, Ver confirmed. The final step is to go to the Comelec voting website ( Voting can be done any time of the day until May 12, 3pm (UAE time). Filipinos can vote using their mobile phones, tablets, laptops, or desktop computers with built-in cameras, or ones that can be plugged with a camera and are capable of connecting to the internet running on any web browser. No more queues In the past, Filipino voters complained they were not able to vote because they had to go to the embassy or the consulate to exercise their constitutional right to vote. Now, they can just go online and vote – at their most convenient time and place. Ver said on Sunday: 'The interesting thing is that there was no queue of people who came to vote – which was a standard feature of the previous overseas voting. A few came to the embassy to ask for assistance in enrolling online and then they went ahead to cast their votes. 'This proves that online voting is the way to go for our community in the UAE. The online voting system is indeed not just a practical and easy way but it is also secure and credible,' he noted, adding: 'As for the enrollment figure, this is hovering at 5 per cent of our total number of registered voters (the total number of registered voters in Abu Dhabi stands at 66,001). 'I reiterate my call to my kababayan (countrymen), particularly the registered voters to enroll and cast their votes, and show the power and presence of the overseas Filipinos in strengthening our democratic institutions and make a concrete contribution to shaping and building the future of the Philippines,' Ver underscored. 'Make your voice heard' Meanwhile, in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, Philippine consul-general Marford M. Angeles, said: "Only a handful of overseas voters, which includes two senior citizens, came to the Consulate today to seek assistance in online voting while majority of voters voted online in the comfort of their homes. 'Compared to our previous elections, we can say we had a good turnout as more people were able to vote compared to if they came to the Consulate in person and queued under this hot weather. The online voting mode is making good with its promise of an easier and more convenient way to vote for our overseas voters,' he added. Angeles said enrollment turnout 'is about 5 per cent of our total 123,891 registered voters in Dubai and Northern Emirates. We are hoping that we get a higher turnout in the coming days, leading to the enrollment deadline of May 7, as only those pre-enrolled can cast their votes until May 12." 'Each vote is a step closer towards realising what we envision our country's future should be. As an overseas voter, this is your chance to make your voice heard, and we encourage you to make sure it is heard loud and clear,' Angeles reiterated, adding: 'We ask everyone to spread the word so we can continue the upward trend of voter turnout for the next 29 days.' The official election day in the Philippines is May 12, 2025, but for overseas Filipinos, including those in the UAE — online voting will run for 30 days from April 13 to May 12. They will elect 12 senators and a party-list representative.
Filipino Times
12-04-2025
- Politics
- Filipino Times
Overseas voting starts April 13: First time for OFWs to vote online
For the first time in Philippine election history, Filipinos abroad—particularly the nearly 200,000 registered voters in the UAE—can now cast their votes online for the upcoming 2025 Philippine National and Local Elections. This year, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) will be implementing internet voting in 77 out of 95 embassies and consulates around the world. The UAE is one of these, meaning that no manual voting will take place in the host country. Instead, they can use their mobile phones or computers to vote from the comfort of their homes. The voting period runs from April 13 to May 12 until 3 PM UAE time, giving overseas Filipinos one full month to participate—well ahead of the May 2025 election day in the Philippines. Why your vote matters His Excellency Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, emphasized that online voting is in response to OFWs' long-standing call to have greater participation in the country's national affairs—an easier, simpler, but secure way of voting. 'Dito sa pagboboto, 'yan ang pinaka-konkretong ekspresiyon ng inyong partisipasyon sa buhay ng ating bayan,' Ambassador Ver said in a media briefing. 'Hopefully, makarami talaga, dahil dito sa UAE sanay na sanay tayong gumamit ng ating mga cellphone, ng technology—sa pag-renew ng ating visa, lisensya, pagpapadala ng pera, kaya natin in-introduce ngayon ang online voting.' During the 2022 Presidential elections, nearly 97,000 overseas Filipinos cast their votes in the UAE. This accounted for about one-third of all registered voters in the country, making the UAE one of the most active overseas voting hubs. This year, the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai has recorded 123,891 registered voters, while the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi has 66,001. To encourage continued strong participation, the Consulate also reminded the community of the vital role they play. 'Ang mga botante sa UAE is the top, in terms of number of voters, the number din ng turnout at we want to maintain that,' said Hon. Marford M. Angeles, Consul General in Dubai. 'But ang pinakamahalaga doon, importanteng maka-boto ang lahat.' Is the system safe? Atty. Ian Michel Geonanga, Deputy Head of the Office of Overseas Voting for Comelec, assured the public that security measures have been established to protect the online voting system, including multi-layered security architecture, encrypted data transmission, and real-time monitoring to safeguard its integrity and ensure voter safety. The digital ballot system is mirrored across different servers in various locations. This way, any attempt to tamper with one server will be immediately flagged if it doesn't match with the others, he added. 'Kung meron ka mang i-tamper o i-hack sa isa man diyan, madali agad siyang makikita kasi hindi siya magma-match with all the other data,' Geonanga explained. In addition, the Comelec has deployed online security teams and monitoring personnel to ensure a smooth, fair, and credible election process. A game changer for OFWs While the new voting system raises doubts and confusion for some OFWs, registered voters like Alissandra Jasmine Cadag are excited about the opportunity it brings to make participation in the elections more accessible. 'Many of us work far from embassies or have hectic schedules that don't allow time off. Online voting removes the need to travel or miss work, breaking down barriers and allowing more Filipinos abroad to have a say in choosing our leaders,' Cadag, an OFW in the UAE for seven years, explained. Cadag shared that she will exercise her right to vote, not just to stay connected, but to help shape decisions that affect both Filipinos at home and OFWs abroad. Though online voting might feel unfamiliar to some, Cadag views it as a step forward, especially in today's digital age. 'If we don't use this opportunity, we allow others to decide our future for us. Online voting is designed to make the process easier, not harder. Let's trust in the system, stay informed, and actively contribute to building a better Philippines,' she added. Pre-enroll to vote While the elections will start on April 13, the pre-voting enrollment, a necessary step to verify your identity and access the internet voting platform, will run until May 7. Only those included in the Certified List of Overseas Voters (CLOV) provided by Comelec can participate. You can pre-enroll online through an official link provided by the Comelec, or visit Philippine posts in the UAE, where voting kiosks have been set up for assistance. To complete pre-enrollment, you'll need: A valid Philippine passport (original only, no photocopies) A working mobile number An active email address If you don't have a passport, other valid IDs, such as your PhilSys ID or Philippine driver's license, may be used. Once verified, voters will be given a chance to try a test voting link to familiarize themselves with the new system. However, the test link will no longer be accessible once official voting starts on April 13. For those having difficulties with online enrollment or lacking required documents, manual verification can be done by visiting the nearest Philippine post. 'Hindi naman po natin tinatanggal yung option for us to go to the embassies or consulates, kasi if ever na hindi tayo ganoon ka-confident doing it at home, we can have the assistance of our very reliable staff,' said Atty. Geonanga. How to vote online: A step-by-step guide Once you've confirmed that you're a registered voter and completed your pre-enrollment, you're all set to vote online. Follow these easy steps: Access the voting portal using the email address or mobile number you provided during pre-enrollment. Check your email or SMS for the one-time password (OTP) and enter it when prompted. Once logged in, simply click or tap the 'Click to Vote' button on the portal. A set of instructions will appear. Take a moment to read them carefully and follow the steps before proceeding. When you're ready, click the 'Start Voting' button. A list of candidates will be displayed. Choose the candidates you'd like to vote for. After selecting your candidates, you can review your digital ballot. The system will ask for confirmation before submitting. If you're satisfied, click the button that says 'I want to CAST my Digital Ballot' to finalize your vote. Once your vote is successfully cast, a dialogue box will appear confirming your submission. The shift to online voting for Filipinos abroad marks a historic moment as it offers flexibility, making it easier and more inclusive, especially for OFWs with limited mobility or demanding work schedules. Now, the Filipinos' role is to actively participate in upholding the integrity of the electoral process and making their voice count by choosing the right leaders who will champion their rights and bring about meaningful change for the nation.
Filipino Times
02-03-2025
- General
- Filipino Times
PH Ambassador to the UAE extends Ramadan greetings to Muslim community
His Excellency Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, extended his heartfelt greetings to the Filipino and Muslim communities, emphasizing the values of faith, unity, and mutual respect. In his official message, the ambassador underscored the significance of Ramadan as a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and renewed commitment to compassion and understanding. 'As we join our esteemed Muslim brothers and sisters in the United Arab Emirates in welcoming the blessed month of Ramadan, may our hearts be filled with unwavering faith and deep gratitude,' Ambassador Ver said, highlighting the essence of the holy month as a time for reflection and renewal. He highlighted the values of forgiveness, unity, and peace, encouraging everyone to work together toward a future of harmony, prosperity, and shared purpose. Ambassador Ver also reiterated the Philippine Embassy's commitment to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and the UAE, a nation that is home to hundreds of thousands of overseas Filipinos. 'The Philippine Embassy in the UAE extends its warmest wishes to all, with hopes that our bonds of friendship and cooperation continue to strengthen, fostering a world where we may live in unity and understanding,' he said. Ramadan, which began on March 1, 2025, in the UAE, is regarded as the holiest month in Islam. It is marked by fasting from dawn to dusk, prayers, and acts of charity that reinforce the values of kindness and generosity.
Filipino Times
16-02-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Top Filipino engineers and architects in the Middle East 2025 revealed
126 Filipino engineers and architects were honored for their exceptional contributions in the Middle East The winners were trimmed down from 1,031 nominations from 5 countries and 6 disciplines The awards highlighted the significant role of Filipino professionals in sustainable infrastructure and urban development across five Middle East countries The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East 2025 celebrated the accomplishments of 126 exceptional Filipino professionals in a prestigious awards ceremony and summit held in Dubai, UAE. Organized by New Perspective Media Group (NPM), the event honors the outstanding contributions of Filipino engineers and architects in the region, highlighting their vital roles in shaping the region's infrastructure and development. Recipients of the TFT Watchlist Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East Awards 2025 The awardees include architects, civil engineers, chemical engineers, electronics engineers, electrical engineers, and mechanical engineers from Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The event shines a light on the extraordinary influence Filipino professionals have in the region, particularly in driving sustainable urban development. H.E. Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, said: 'Platforms that recognize the achievements and significant contributions of Filipinos, such as The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Filipino Engineers and Architects in the Middle East, support and further encourage our kabayan to excel in whichever field they may be. Beyond honoring their work, these are also celebrations of their individual contributions in reinforcing the immense goodwill of our community in this region, their enduring legacies borne from sheer dedication and hard work of which we Filipinos are well-known for.' H.E. Raul S. Hernandez, Philippine Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, said: 'I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to this year's outstanding Filipino engineers and architects recognized at the Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Filipino Engineers and Architects in the Middle East Summit 2025. Their achievements reflect not only technical expertise but also the Filipino commitment to integrity, professionalism, resilience, and innovation. From groundbreaking designs to engineering feats that shape skylines and transform cities, their work is a source of pride for our nation, proving that Filipinos' talent and expertise shine on the global stage.' Here is the full list of awardees of The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East 2025 in order of their last name by discipline: TFT Watchlist honors the Architect awardees Architecture Bahala, Rhona Dicipulo, Antonio Gaela, Carmelita Gavino, Jeffrey Carlo Lago, Cherylliz Anne Pabalan, Fernando Pareja, Woderick Pigao, Bernadette Quiogue, Kriz Samed Reyes, Franz Felea Rigor, Paul Peter Son Rico Santos, Kenneth Mark TFT Watchlist honors the Civil Engineer awardees TFT Watchlist honors the Civil Engineer awardees TFT Watchlist honors the Civil Engineer awardees Civil Engineering Abad, Charles Concordio Aldaya, Marichelle Animas, Jay Apduhan, Blesil Bañadera, Joey Bayot, Erwin Betita, Alfonso Belito Borreros, Kristoffer Arnie Buenconsejo, Glenn John Cabardo, Jonathan Castañeda, Jaime Jr. Castillon, Ronald Cayaga, Alden Cayog, John Carlo Chavez, Anngela Cocjin, Randy Piniera Dalupang, Leonides Dela Peña, Sheryl De Sesto, Michelle De Vera, Fredel Dela Cruz, Pablismer Delos Santos, Cedrich Joshua Yllana Diestro, Leonester Villar Dolozon, John Nielsen Famorcan, Joeper Francia, Michael Jeanios Galeon, Julie Galve Idos, Paquito Isla, Romaline Juntilla, Ace Labarda, Ahmer Leaño, Roland Legaste, Jay-ar Lopez, Asuncion Magnaye, Percival Malaluan, Vanessa Angela Malayao, Leonel Joseph Malubay, Raleigh Manglicmot, Gerry Mangubat, Williamson Manqueria, Vener Marcial, Nathalie Molbog, Joevince Navarro, Lorena Nicdao, Melvin Kieth Nuque, Sharon Oligo, Mario Ortiguerra, Meliza Pigao, Engersol Ramos, Raymund Ralph Rentutar, Rafael Jr. Ricohermoso, Juanito Sanchez, Marites Tampipi, Alberto Jr. Tan, Dana Lynn Tejedo, Jundee Mar Utram, Jojo Victorio, Vic Allen TFT Watchlist honors the Chemical Engineer awardees Chemical Engineering Deauna, Jowy Palma Dela Cruz, Jolivette Rapadas Lopez, Florencio Jr. Soriano, Patrick Luis Yamson, Rodolfo Jr. TFT Watchlist honors the Electronics Engineer awardees Electronics Engineering Agnes, Genesis Batoon, Heherson Capuno, Maricarl Gasangue, Mark Nhel Garcia, Garry Lao, Leo Vincent Lontoc, Rafael Maglaque-Arcega, Ma. Elisa Perez, Jeejay Al Valeros, Leif Marvin TFT Watchlist honors the Electrical Engineer awardees Electrical Engineering Cabalse, Manny Boy Casao, Elmer Castulo, Rodrigo Jr. Cupido, Leo Diaz, Aruel Genove, Elmer Guillermo, Alfie Hipolito, Marlon Laguerta, Venerando Lingcaso, Norberto Jr. Oyao, Jalan Nicolas Paloma, Victor Perez, Ken Anthony Pineda, Lesley Ariel Rances, Melanie Recto, Roanne Joy Saragpon- Guillermo, Rocil May Sayaman, Ian Waldy Tangcogo, Jose Vergosa, Enrie Andy Villa, Eryl TFT Watchlist honors the Mechanical Engineer awardees Mechanical Engineering Aguado, Leonardo Basario, Kristian Beltran, Arlan Calingasan, Clyde Bienson Calma, Sonny Defensor, Pasciano Delgado, Domingo Jr. Ingal, Juanito Jr. Malagapo, Eduardo Mamayog, Shayed Orticio, Felizardo Jr. Parubrub, Cipriano Perpetua, Jed Gregorio Pineda, Lloyd Christian Ramos, Reynald Regalado, Henry Reyes, Jaime III Rosete, Francis Louie Serben, Michael Valero, Jeffrey Zamora, Jayson Dr. Karen Remo, CEO and Founder of NPM Group, the publisher of The Filipino Times and organizer of TFT Watchlist, during her welcome remarks at the awards ceremony Dr. Karen Remo, CEO and Founder of New Perspective Media Group and Publisher of The Filipino Times, said: 'The Filipino Times is committed to empowering Filipinos worldwide, and this event is a testament to their invaluable contributions. The engineering and architecture sectors in the Middle East have greatly benefited from the talent, resilience, and expertise of Filipino professionals. We are proud to provide a platform that fosters peer-to-peer recognition and celebrates work excellence, leadership, professional success, resilience, and community service.' Hon. Consul General Marford M. Angeles, Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, said: ' Initiatives like The Filipino Times Watchlist are crucial in recognizing and amplifying the impact of overseas Filipinos who excel in their respective fields. By celebrating the achievements of our engineers and architects, we not only acknowledge their hard work but also encourage others to push the boundaries of their capabilities.' Atty. John Rio A. Bautista, Labor Attaché of the Migrant Workers Office – Dubai and the Northern Emirates, said: 'Through your efforts, you have raised the bar for what Filipinos can achieve globally, and we are incredibly proud of all that you have accomplished. Your success not only uplifts the standing of Filipino professionals in the Middle East but also inspires others to follow in your footsteps. We also commend The Filipino Times for consistently championing Filipino professionals and providing a platform to celebrate their accomplishments.' Vince Ang, COO of New Perspective Media Group and GM of The Filipino Times, said: 'These professionals are true trailblazers, pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability in the Middle East. Their exceptional work continues to transform the region, and we are thrilled to recognize their achievements, which inspire others to follow in their footsteps.' TFT Watchlist judges receive well-deserved recognition Judges who helped determine the awardees included: Sheryl G. De La Peña; immediate Past Chapter President of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers-UAE and Sr. Quantity Surveyor and Contracts Administrator at Distance Studio Consultants Marlon B. Hipolito, 2025 Chapter President of the Integrated Institute of Electrical Engineers of the Philippines-UAE and Project Manager at Watermaster LLC Rafael Lontoc, Chairman of the Philippine Professional Organization-UAE, Adviser to the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines-UAE Chapter, and Regional Support Manager at Cyviz AS Florencio C. Lopez Jr., 2024 Chapter President of the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers-UAE and Senior Process Engineering Specialist/Chief Engineer at ADNOC Borouge Woderick M. Pareja, past Chapter President and Adviser to United Architects of the Philippines-Abu Dhabi and Project Management Consultant/Technical Advisor at Obermeyer Middle East GmBH Leif Marvin Valeros, Chapter President of the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines-UAE and Technical Support Engineer at Keri Systems Middle East FZCO The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East 2025 Awards and Summit is supported by RLC Residences, Kings Medical Center, and Elite Retreats Tourism as Support Sponsors, and is powered by The Filipino Times, the largest international Filipino news media and marketing agency globally.
Filipino Times
09-02-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Angat ang husay ng Pinoy! Celebrating top Filipino engineers and architects in the Middle East
The Middle East stands as a beacon of possibility, a place where bold dreams transform into extraordinary realities. Behind its iconic skyscrapers and advanced infrastructure, there lies a dedicated workforce of skilled professionals shaping the future. Among them are Filipino engineers and architects, whose expertise and resilience have earned them a reputation as integral players in the region's success story. With millions of overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East, a lot has been taking on leadership, project management, design, and construction roles helping to propel the region's transformation into a global hub of innovation and modernity. Through world-class skills, they have earned their place as key contributors to some of the region's most ambitious projects, playing a vital role in its rapid urbanization. His Excellency Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver underscored the contributions of Filipino professionals to the UAE's development, strengthening the broader relationship between the two nations. 'Our engineers and architects were here when the first roads were paved, the first buildings constructed, the first bridges built, and in the process we have created bridges of friendship that have all greatly contributed to the UAE's extraordinary success,' H.E. Ver said. Commending their legacies, the Ambassador added: 'Filipinos have firmly established a good foundation on which our current and next generations of professionals will continue to impress an enduring mark, as these are inscribed and are put to life by the UAE's iconic and world-class structures, architectures, and skylines.' Building a strong reputation The legacy of Filipino architects and engineers extends far beyond the physical structures and landscapes they've helped built. They have also earned a strong and respected reputation for all Filipinos across the Middle East. Atty. John Rio Bautista, Labor Attaché of the Migrant Workers Office – Dubai and the Northern Emirates, emphasized that aside from their professionalism, they have also paved the way for future generations to thrive in the industry. 'From the early Filipino pioneers in the region, a legacy of excellence in engineering and architecture was built — defined by hard work, reliability, and quality. Today, you continue to elevate this reputation as you demonstrate the capacity to bring bold, ambitious projects to life with precision and innovation,' said Labor Attaché Bautista. Hon. Marford M. Angeles, Philippine Consul General of the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, said their contributions have also elevated the standard for excellence in the field, reinforcing the Filipino workforce's global reputation. 'Filipino engineers and architects have consistently been at the forefront of significant projects that define the UAE's progress, from state-of-the-art skyscrapers to sustainable urban developments. Your dedication and craftsmanship have earned you the trust and respect of your peers,' Consul General Angeles said. 'Beyond the blueprints and structures, you have built a legacy of excellence that inspires the next generation of Filipino professionals to dream bigger and aim higher.' Shaping Dubai's future Filipino engineers and architects have become the backbone of the UAE's most iconic developments, their work symbolizing the country's aspirations and global prominence. In the heart of Dubai's soaring skyline and bustling streets lies the legacy of a Filipino architect whose vision and expertise helped transform a desert landscape into one of the most iconic cities in the world. Architect Felino 'Jun' Palafox played an instrumental role in Dubai's urban development. It was in 1977 when Palafox, then one of the youngest Filipino architects, took on the role of urban planner for the Municipality of Dubai, laying the groundwork for the city's transformation into the modern metropolis it is today. Tasked with creating the city's architectural design guidelines and contributing to the city's building codes, he led projects that would forever change the face of the emirate—growing into a global hub for business, tourism, and culture. Innovation meets sustainability A standout in Dubai's iconic leisure and retail destinations, Marsa Al Seef owes much of its stunning design to Arch. Christine Espinosa-Erlanda, Associate Director at Godwin Austen Johnson and a two-time TFT Watchlist awardee. As a key member of the Masterplanning and design team, she helped transform this area into one of the city's most sought-after spots, seamlessly blending modernity with the rich cultural heritage of Dubai. Beyond her design expertise, Espinosa-Erlanda is a passionate advocate for sustainability in architecture. With a portfolio that spans across MENA region, her work exemplifies a commitment to both innovation and environmental responsibility. She has showcased her expertise in leading and delivering creative design solutions across diverse architectural projects. Her portfolio includes masterplans, hospitality, retail, residential, educational, and heritage developments in the Middle East and Asia. Notable projects include the Chedi Al Bait Boutique Hotel in Sharjah, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, the Retail District at Dubai Creek Harbour, as well as various hospitality and masterplan projects in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. With a constant embrace of innovation and a relentless pursuit of creative solutions, she consistently stays at the forefront, pushing boundaries and creating remarkable spaces. Leaders in action Beyond their professional accomplishments, Filipino engineers and architects in the UAE are also creating a community centered on networking, collaboration, and mentorship. They have consistently organized seminars and workshops, as well as general membership meetings to facilitate continuous upskilling and discuss key developments in their fields. These initiatives are complemented by their close collaboration with regulatory organizations, including the coordination of Special Professional Licensure Examinations. Key figures driving this movement include UAE chapter presidents Engr. Rafael Lontoc from the Institute of Electronics and Communications Engineers of the Philippines, also the Philippine Professional Organization chairman; Engr. Leif Marvin Valeros from the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines; Engr. Florencio Lopez, Jr. from the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers UAE Chapter. Joining them are Engr. Sheryl Dela Peña from the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers; Engr. Marlon Hipolito from the Integrated Institute of Electrical Engineers; and Engr. Flordeliza Dinglasan from the Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers, who are also UAE chapter presidents, as well as Ar. Jonathan Gregorio, United Architects of the Philippines Abu Dhabi chapter president. Through their dedication, they are creating a support system that empowers individuals while amplifying the collective impact of Filipinos in the industry. Celebrating Filipino excellence In honor of their outstanding contributions, The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Architects and Engineers in the Middle East Summit and Awards 2025 is set to recognize their hard work, leadership, and dedication. For its third edition, the prestigious event will celebrate over 140 awardees selected from thousands of nominations across the region, acknowledging their achievements in areas like leadership, professional success, and community impact. Scheduled for February 14, 2025, the event will be a dual celebration — featuring both a summit and an awards night. The summit will offer a platform for knowledge-sharing and inspiration, bringing together industry experts to empower the next generation of Filipino engineers and architects. Meanwhile, the awards night will be a celebration of the accomplishments of these trailblazing professionals. To reserve your seat for this highly anticipated summit, register now for FREE at
