Latest news with #PBC-DNE


Filipino Times
5 hours ago
- Business
- Filipino Times
PBC-DNE, DP World explore partnerships for Filipino business community in UAE
Leaders of the Philippine Business Council Dubai and Northern Emirates (PBC-DNE) met this week with a top executive of DP World to explore opportunities for collaboration that would further support the Filipino business community in the UAE. The PBC-DNE Board of Directors was invited to a meeting by Mr. Saeed Al Zari, Group Vice President of Government Affairs at DP World, a multinational logistics company based in Dubai, which the council described as a meaningful discussion on future partnerships. 'We are proud and happy to hear about the active participation of Filipinos in the business landscape and the growing number of Filipino-owned enterprises making an impact in the UAE,' the council said in a social media post. 'This engagement marks another step towards building bridges between our members and key industry leaders, paving the way for more impactful partnerships in the future.' Among the initiatives discussed was the planned development of a 'Filipino Village' within DP World, a project still in its early planning stages, the council told The Filipino Times . Initially conceived as a trading hub, the concept has since expanded to include potential elements such as residential areas, schools, malls, and churches, PBC-DNE Chairwoman Asiyah Monjardin and the Board of Directors said. They added that discussions are ongoing with the Philippine government, while similar projects are also being considered for other nationalities. The council welcomed the initiative, saying it reflects recognition of the Filipino community's contributions and highlights DP World's commitment to diversity and inclusion. PBC-DNE also expressed appreciation for DP World's acknowledgment of Filipino contributions to the UAE business landscape, noting that it strengthens the council's position as a trusted partner across various sectors.


Filipino Times
13-08-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
PBC-DNE holds dialogue with UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade to discuss opportunities, support for Filipino business community
The Philippine Business Council – Dubai and Northern Emirates (PBC-DNE) held a high-level dialogue with His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, to explore ways to support the Filipino business community in the host country. PBC Chairwoman Evangeline 'Asiyah' Monjardin, along with the Board of Directors, Secretary General Arch. Wilfredo Llarena Jr., Trade & Compliance Director Mary Jane Alvero Almahdi, Director of Corporate Governance and Compliance Harold Grecia Orona, and Membership Director Shiela Pellano, attended the meeting to represent council members and affiliates, ensuring the interests of Filipino professionals and business owners were shared. Monjardin said the council presented its accomplishments over more than 100 days during the meeting, which provided an avenue for mutual collaboration. 'We had the opportunity to hear the ministry's plans, goals, and vision for the Filipino community, while also consolidating and presenting the priorities and opportunities identified by our members. The dialogue became a platform for us to voice our interest, share expectations, and encourage greater engagement between the Philippine business community and the UAE government,' Monjardin said in an interview with The Filipino Times . Among the topics discussed were the ongoing dialogue between the Philippine Government and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade to enhance bilateral trade relations, and the Ministry's willingness to support the PBC and the broader Filipino business community in navigating the UAE business landscape. The dialogue also provided a platform to explore ways to support Filipino businesses and investors coming from the Philippines, helping them grow and expand their operations in Dubai while fostering stronger community and business relationships. In the works PBC-DNE and the Ministry also discussed development initiatives, including Golden Visa for eligible PBC members. In 2022, H.E. Al Zeyoudi awarded Golden Visa status to PBC members, and the council requested a second batch of endorsements to continue supporting its members. In addition, training sessions and seminars on entrepreneurship, business skills, and trade knowledge for Filipino entrepreneurs, SMEs, and professionals were proposed to improve awareness and provide practical guidance. Monjardin noted that the ministry acknowledged these initiatives as work in progress. The council also announced the expansion of its subcommittees to include Hospitality, Tourism, and Retail, which was welcomed by the ministry. This is in addition to their existing subcommittees, namely League of Freight Forwarders, League of Food & Beverage Enterprises, and TRIBE. The Filipino business community in Dubai and Northern Emirates has grown steadily in recent years. PBC-DNE data shows Filipino-owned businesses increased from an estimated 1,575 in 2023 to 2,154 by 2024, with an additional 216 companies registered in the first quarter of 2025. These businesses operate in sectors including food and beverage, fashion, logistics, technology services, trade, and hospitality.


Filipino Times
13-07-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
PBC-DNE launches masterclass for aspiring Filipino entrepreneurs in UAE
The Philippine Business Council Dubai and Northern Emirates (PBC-DNE) officially launched the second season of its Masterclass program, offering Filipino professionals and entrepreneurs in the UAE a 13-week business and leadership training. The press launch, held Saturday, was attended by Consul General Hon. Marford Angeles, DTI Trade Commissioner Vichael Roaring, and Vice Consul Jim Jimeno, showing strong support from Philippine government officials. The program is now open for registration. According to PBC-DNE, the Masterclass 2025 is designed to support both first-time entrepreneurs and experienced business owners. It will cover essential topics such as business foundations, marketing, operations, finance, leadership, and sustainability. Participants will gain hands-on knowledge through practical sessions aimed at making complex business concepts more accessible. At the end of the program, they will present business plans for a chance to win prizes worth up to AED 30,000. The Masterclass will be held at Burjuman B-Hub, the official venue partner for the program. Interested participants can now register online through the Philippine Business Council Dubai and Northern Emirates website:


Filipino Times
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
PBC-DNE's TRIBE supports Filipino artists as TeryMari Gallery debuts in Dubai
Filipino creativity shines brighter in the UAE as TRIBE, the creative arm of the Philippine Business Council – Dubai and Northern Emirates (PBC-DNE), supports the physical debut of TeryMari Gallery at MAVON, one of Dubai's leading contemporary art venues. Founded by Maria Teresa Santos, TeryMari Gallery began as an online platform dedicated to showcasing emerging and established Filipino artists. In collaboration with TRIBE, the gallery is now launching its premiere artist collection through a cultural exhibition titled 'TWO SUNS RISE,' running from July 13 to 31, 2025, at MAVON Gallery, Sheikh Zayed Road. The exhibition features eight Filipino visual artists in dialogue with Emirati artist Khalid Salem, highlighting shared stories of identity, cultural migration, and creative expression. The works span multiple styles, from surrealism to abstract cubism, offering a layered exploration of the modern Filipino experience in conversation with Arab perspectives. 'This marks a major step forward for TeryMari Gallery, not only as a platform but as a movement,' said Santos, who is also a member of TRIBE. 'We're proud to bring these voices to a broader audience through collaboration and cultural exchange.' A soft opening is scheduled on July 12, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, featuring a guided tour of the exhibit, live Baybayin and Arabic calligraphy, and a DJ-percussionist performance that fuses traditional Filipino and Arab beats. The event is open to the public from July 13–31, with free admission. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Thursday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Friday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. As part of its advocacy, TRIBE continues to empower Filipino creatives across the UAE by supporting platforms like TeryMari Gallery that bridge cultures and build community. TRIBE operates under PBC-DNE, a Filipino-led organization recognized by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce that fosters cultural and business partnerships between the UAE and the Philippines.


Filipino Times
03-07-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Dubai Chamber pays first-ever courtesy visit to Philippine Business Council-DNE
The Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry has made its first-ever courtesy visit to the Philippine Business Council – Dubai and Northern Emirates (PBC-DNE) on Thursday, marking a new chapter of engagement between the two groups. Fatma Al Madani, Senior Manager for Business Relations at Dubai Chamber The delegation, led by Fatma Al Madani, Senior Manager for Business Relations at Dubai Chamber, met with the current PBC-DNE Board of Directors to discuss ongoing and future collaborations. Hon. Marford Angeles, Consul General in Dubai Trade Commissioner Vichael Roaring Joining the meeting were Consul General Marford Angeles and Trade Commissioner Vichael Roaring. During the visit, the PBC presented a rundown of its key efforts since the start of the new term. These included projects aimed at working with other business councils, supporting the growth of member companies, and encouraging greater involvement in business and community-related activities. The meeting also touched on upcoming plans and possible areas for collaboration, with a shared goal of strengthening the role of Filipino professionals and entrepreneurs in the local economy. Present from the PBC-DNE Board were Chairwoman Asiyah Monjardin, Vice Chairman Michael Da Costa, Secretary General Arch. Wilfredo Llarena Jr., Trade and Compliance Director Mary Jane Alvero Almahdi, Networking and Business Development Director Mariben Tan Eustaquio, Education, Media & Communications Director Melon Perez, Membership Director Daisy Calabia, and Finance Director Roberto Capulong. PBC-DNE brings together Filipino professionals and businesses in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. Its focus is on building stronger economic and cultural ties between the Philippines and the UAE, supporting startups, and encouraging the next generation of Filipino business leaders.