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Filipino Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Filipino Times
OFWs honored at Kalayaan 2025 in Dubai
Overseas Filipino workers took center stage at the opening of Kalayaan 2025, a celebration of the 127th Philippine Independence Day, held at Dubai World Trade Centre. Thousands of Filipinos from across the UAE gathered to mark the occasion, which opened with vibrant cultural displays and messages recognizing the vital role of OFWs in shaping the nation's identity and supporting its economy. Hon. Marford Angeles, Consul General of the Philippines in Dubai and the Northern Emirates In his keynote address, Hon. Marford Angeles, Consul General of the Philippines in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, paid tribute to the over 1 million Filipinos living and working in the UAE. He reflected on how the country's national heroes were the first to bring global attention to the Philippines, likening their efforts to today's OFWs, whom he described as modern-day heroes. He highlighted how cumulative OFW remittances reached a record US$38.34 billion in 2024, with a 'big chunk' coming from the UAE. He also noted that the UAE posted the highest overseas voter turnout in the last elections, with nearly 39,000 Filipinos casting their votes. 'Kayo ay mga bayani dahil araw-araw, gumigising kayo upang harapin ang hamon ng buhay. Araw-araw, gumigising kayo upang mapabilib ang inyong mga boss at mga katrabaho. Araw-araw, gumigising kayo at nagtatrabaho para sa inyong pamilya,' he added. Consul General Angeles also acknowledged the role of Filipinos in the UAE's multicultural society, calling them the 'glue' that connects over 200 nationalities. 'You represent compassion, brilliance, talent, and professionalism in the global stage,' he added. Mr. Arvic Arevalo, Deputy Head of Mission at the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi Meanwhile, Mr. Arvic Arevalo, Deputy Head of Mission at the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, echoed this recognition and praised OFWs working across various sectors including healthcare, engineering, education, and entrepreneurship. 'Through your hard work, dedication, and integrity, you continue to uplift the image of the Filipinos every day. Sa paggunita natin ng Araw ng Kalayaan, let us continue to bring with us the values of our homeland: tapang, malasakit, at bayanihan,' he said in his message. The opening day began with a parade of Filipino organizations, followed by a lively celebration featuring booths offering Filipino food, local products, and community services. Attendees were treated to a variety of performances—both traditional and contemporary. Presented by Emirates Loves Philippines, Infinite Communities, and The Filipino Channel, Kalayaan 2025 is open to the public and continues until 8 PM today, with cultural showcases, exhibits, and entertainment. The event serves as a reminder of the strength and unity of the Filipino community abroad, and a celebration of freedom, identity, and shared heritage.
Filipino Times
12-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
Over 25,000 expected to join Kalayaan 2025 celebration in Dubai
Kalayaan 2025 is set to welcome more than 25,000 guests in a full-day celebration of Philippine Independence on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The event will run from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM at Halls 1 and 2. Organized by Emirates Loves Philippines, Infinite Communities, and The Filipino Channel (TFC), this celebration is one of the biggest gatherings of Filipinos in the UAE. It aims to showcase Filipino culture, unity, and resilience through various performances and activities. 'This year… we aim to shine a light on the people, stories, and shared values that connect us all,' said a spokesperson for Emirates Loves Philippines. The group has over 1 million Filipino followers and is joining Kalayaan for the fourth time. 'Kalayaan 2025 is not merely a commemoration—it is a dynamic expression of the Filipino spirit. It underscores our cultural pride, our enduring contributions, and our integral role in the diverse social fabric of the UAE,' said His Excellency Ambassador Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE. 'This year, as we mark 50 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates, Kalayaan takes on a deeper meaning. It coincides with the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's proclamation of 2025 as the 'Year of Community'—an initiative that calls for unity, inclusivity, and collective identity. Events like this perfectly embody the shared values that have strengthened our bilateral ties over the decades.' The program will feature live music, cultural shows, food booths, and a marketplace where small businesses and creators can showcase their work. According to the Honorable Marford Angeles, Philippine Consul General of Dubai and the Northern Emirates, 'Kalayaan 2025 is a remarkable opportunity to honour the contributions of overseas Filipinos and to strengthen bonds among our kababayans across the UAE. Each year, this event continues to grow—uniting thousands in a celebration of identity, history, and shared aspirations.' Elena C. Cruz, Founder & CEO of Infinite Communities, added, 'Bringing Kalayaan to life each year is both a responsibility and a joy. This event aligns perfectly with the very heart of our organisation's identity: By the Community, For the Community.' Josie Conlu, Community Director of Infinite Communities, said, 'Kalayaan has evolved into one of the world's premier Filipino community celebrations, and it is a privilege to contribute to its continued growth on the global stage.' As the Filipino global network continues to expand, The Filipino Channel (TFC) recognises the value of such events in building meaningful connections. 'Kalayaan is a living celebration of our shared stories,' said Audielyn Avencilla-Riola, The Filipino Channel's Marketing Head for Europe, Middle East, and Africa. TFC artists who will grace the event are Jarren Garcia and Kai Montinola of Pinoy Big Brother Generation 11.
