07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
Filipina celebrity Bella Padilla headlines ‘Kalayaan 2025' celebrations
Darlene Regis
Filipino pride shone brightly in Qatar as Kapamilya star, writer, and director Bella Padilla joined the Filipino community for the Kalayaan 2025 'Family Day' celebrations, marking the 127th Philippine Independence Day.
Held from June 5 to 6, the two-day event, hosted by SGE Events in collaboration with Cuecastt, was filled with cultural pride and a renewed sense of unity among Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Qatar.
Bella, one of the Philippines' most admired multi-hyphenates, brought star power and inspiration to the event.
Known for her breakout roles in critically acclaimed films like '100 Tula Para Kay Stella' and 'Meet Me in St. Gallen,' Bella has also earned praise for her work behind the scenes, including her screenwriting debut with the blockbuster 'Last Night.'
Her visit kicked off on June 5, with a live radio interview on Qabayan Radio 94.3, where she spoke about her love for Filipino culture and excitement to celebrate Independence Day with Filipinos in Qatar.
Later that evening, Bella attended a press conference with SGE Co-Founder RJ Francis and Marketing Director Kristine Chee, where they faced local media and community leaders at Maharlika Park Restaurant.
When asked by Qatar Tribune about her involvement in the Kalayaan celebration, she answered, 'This isn't my first Kapamilya Kalayaan Karavan, I've been to Norway, Paris, and Dubai. I especially love going to TFC shows during Independence Day celebrations because it holds a different meaning for us, especially for OFWs. It makes us all Filipinos feel a strong sense of pride and connection.'
Bella also shared that her heart is close to OFWs, having portrayed the role of an OFW in Dubai in an episode of Maalaala Mo Kaya (MMK), which highlighted the sacrifices and challenges faced by Filipinos working abroad.
The celebration culminated on June 6, as Bella headlined the The Filipino Channel (TFC) Hour at Regency Hall, where she joined thousands of attendees in honoring Filipino heritage through music, dance, games, and cultural presentations.
The vibrant lineup of activities included the Inter-Town Basketball Opening & Parade, cultural and musical performances, PID Teen Idol Grand Finals, PID Hataw Grand Finals, PID Motorshow, TBO Awards and Recognition, and the TFC Kapamilya Kalayaan Karavan.
The event also featured exciting raffles, fun surprises, and activities for all ages.
