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Observer
4 days ago
- Business
- Observer
A Celebration of Heritage and Friendship
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.
Muscat Daily
11-05-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Joyalukkas Exchange opens 46th branch in Oman at Nesto Hypermarket
Muscat – Joyalukkas Exchange, a leading financial remittance company in Oman, has inaugurated its 46th branch and the 97th globally—at Nesto Hypermarket in Bilad Mall, Mabellah. The event was attended by a large crowd and was marked by vibrant celebrations. The new branch was officially inaugurated by Raul S. Hernandez, Ambassador of the Republic of Philippines to Oman, in the presence of Joyalukkas Group Chairman Joy Alukkas, company staff, and hundreds of a fast-developing area with thousands of working-class expatriates from various nationalities, is expected to benefit greatly from the opening of this new branch. Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Raul S. Hernandez remarked, 'Opening 46 branches in one country is a true testament to Joyalukkas Exchange's credibility and excellence. The company plays a vital role in supporting the families of the countless expatriates, including many Filipinos, working in Oman. I hope this exceptional service continues to grow with even more distinction.'Chairman Joy Alukkas expressed his gratitude to customers for their trust and support. He credited this milestone achievement to the backing of both local citizens and expatriates. 'Through the visionary leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and Oman's Vision 2040 plan, we are proud to be contributing to national development. We are committed to opening more branches this year, which will also create additional job opportunities, including for local citizens,' he Manager Nixon Baby thanked the Sultan and the people of Oman for their continued support, emphasizing that the rapid growth to 46 branches in such a short time is a direct result of customer trust. 'Even though our customers can send money home via our mobile app and don't need to visit our branches, many still choose to experience our excellent service in person. That's why opening more branches is not a challenge for us—we are dedicated to delivering exceptional service to everyone,' he General Manager Ansar Shenthari highlighted that their services, including the mobile application, will continue to improve, and that the organisation will remain committed to its social grand opening was also attended by Anto P. Jose, Regional Manager of Joyalukkas Jewellery Group, Fahad Al Habsi from the Human Resources Department, representatives from various financial institutions, and many individuals from the social and cultural spheres who offered their best wishes. The inauguration ceremony drew hundreds of attendees, including both locals and expatriates. Cultural performances such as a traditional Kerala chenda melam (drum ensemble), a magic show, and dance performances added color and energy to the celebration.
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.
