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Filipino Times
7 days ago
- Business
- Filipino Times
Philippine Pavilion opens at INDEX Dubai 2025, showcasing modern furniture and home décor
The Philippine Pavilion officially opened today at INDEX Dubai 2025, one of the largest international trade fairs for interior design in the Middle East. From May 27 to 29, the pavilion will showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of various Philippine brands under the DesignPhilippines banner at Stand AR-F211, Trade Centre Arena, Dubai World Trade Centre. Trade Commissioner Vichael Roaring of the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PITC) in Dubai said that the Philippine Pavilion currently hosts 10 companies with 25 delegates in total. 'We really want to develop the market for these Philippine design-driven products. Kasi tayo, we do great handcrafts, manlilikha, and the second is knowledge products. So it's really about creativity. It's really about innovation and design,' Mr. Roaring told The Filipino Times. 'It's actually reflected in this pavilion, how we're trying to excel, where we want to showcase our excellence, in the designing of products,' he added. Participating companies are presenting innovative, sustainable, and design-forward furniture and home décor products to global buyers and industry professionals. The initiative is organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and the PITC in Dubai, under the Department of Trade and Industry. Philippine officials Hon. Marford M. Angeles, Consul General at the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, and Mr. Arvic V. Arevalo, Deputy Head of Mission and Consul General of the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, also graced the opening of the pavilion. INDEX Dubai aims to gather global brands and designers to highlight the latest trends and products in the interiors industry.
Filipino Times
10-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Filipino Times
Filipina artist Marjowyn Vito represents PH, honors generations of women at international art exhibit in Dubai
Filipina visual artist Marjowyn Vito stood proudly among over 100 women from across the globe as she represented the Philippines at the 8th edition of Art Connects Women, an international exhibition held in Dubai. Vito showcased her acrylic-on-canvas piece titled Her Relay —a powerful tribute to the women who paved the way for the rights and freedom that many enjoy today. The artwork captures the generational struggles, resilience, and triumphs of women throughout history. The inspiration behind Her Relay came from Vito's reflection on how legacies are passed down from one generation of women to the next. 'I was inspired by how generations of women before us worked hard and fought hard so that we could experience freedoms and opportunities that were once out of reach for women—with each generation leaving a legacy for the next generation,' she told The Filipino Times . Staying true to her signature style, Vito infused Her Relay with rich symbolism. The figures in her piece bear objects balanced on their heads—each representing a milestone in the fight for gender equality. Her Relay by Marjowyn Vito (90cm x 90 cm; Acrylic on Canvas) A cooking pot signifies traditional domestic roles, books symbolize education, a pot of gold reflects financial independence, and a crown represents leadership and empowerment. 'My intention here is to showcase the forward and progressive movement of women, and [how women before us passed] on rights, opportunities, and choices to the next generation of women,' she added. 'But the fight is not yet over,' Vito pointed out, adding that while some countries have made great strides, many women around the world still face limitations. 'The next challenge is for women everywhere to enjoy the freedom to define their own futures. That is the legacy we must carry forward.' Representing the Philippines Held under the patronage of UNESCO, Art Connects Women celebrates the creativity of female artists from around the world. This year's edition featured 112 participants representing various countries. Vito with Hon. Marford M. Angeles, Consul General in Dubai, at the Art Connects Women exhibit Vito described the experience as similar to joining the 'Miss World of the art world.' 'While we don't all know everybody's names yet, we call each other by the names of the countries we represent and it's a great honor to be called 'Miss Philippines' by my fellow artists,' she said. With that honor, however, came a deeper sense of responsibility. 'In this global event, I know that I am not just representing myself, but my country and hopefully to make the Philippines proud in the same way that my country has made me proud to be Filipino,' she added. A legacy of her own Beyond the message of her work, Vito hopes to leave her own mark in the art world through Contrasegmentism, the technique she developed and coined herself. Defined by its contrasting segments of color and texture—blending flatness with volume—Contrasegmentism allows her to tell layered visual stories with striking depth. 'I believe Contrasegmentism can also evolve into an art movement where there can also be many Contrasegmentists in the same way that there are many Impressionists or Cubists. This is a contribution I hope my art gets to offer to the art world with its origins in the Philippines,' she said. This distinct approach allowed her to break boundaries on the international stage, gaining recognition for both her technique and the messages behind her work. Since her international debut in London in July 2023, Vito has quickly gained attention in the global art scene. With her powerful themes and distinct style, she is now seen as one of the most promising contemporary Filipino artists of her generation, with her next stop being the Florence Biennale 2025.
Filipino Times
05-04-2025
- Filipino Times
Here comes the sun: Summer trip tips for OFWs
Summer is just around the corner, and for OFWs in the UAE, that means planning the perfect vacation—whether it's a trip back home or an adventure abroad. From budget-friendly hacks to smart travel planning, here's your ultimate guide to a stress-free, sulit getaway! Summer is calling, and OFWs are ready to answer! As temperatures rise in the UAE, many ka-TFTs are making plans to travel—either heading back home to reunite with family or exploring cooler destinations to escape the scorching heat. But how do you make the most of your trip without burning a hole in your wallet? This week, The Filipino Times highlights the best travel deals, budget-friendly hacks, and tips from other OFWs to make your summer adventure smooth, stress-free, and sulit! Book early, save big! Flight promos happen months in advance! Airlines like Cebu Pacific offer discounted fares until April 15 for travel between April and October 2025. Keep an eye out for flash sales and seat sales from airlines like Singapore Airlines and China Southern Airlines to get the best deals. Choose the perfect destination Many OFWs look for destinations with cooler climates to escape the UAE's summer heat. Aside from the Philippines' scenic spots like Baguio and Sagada, countries like Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan offer a refreshing break. 'Pumunta kami ng friend ko sa Kyrgyzstan. Nangabayo lang tapos pumunta sa canyon. Then ang temperature, mga 18 degrees Celsius pababa,' shares Dubai-based OFW Rachel. Dubai-based OFW Rachel Manalo with her friend Chin in Kyrgyzstan One way to make travel more budget-friendly is by choosing from 39 visa-free destinations for Philippine passport holders, including Singapore, Thailand, and Brazil. Dubai-based OFW Diane Castillo in Armenia If your dream destination requires a visa, check if they offer e-visas instead. 'You can avoid any extra cost and the hassle, like going to the embassy to apply for the visa. So, you can focus more nalang sa travel expenses,' says Dubai-based Diane. 39 visa-free countries for Philippine passport holders. Find affordable accommodations Compare hotel and Airbnb prices, or check package deals through travel agencies. Group bookings can slash accommodation costs significantly, giving you extra budget for pasalubong and experiences. OFWs love looking for budget-friendly hotels near malls or restaurants, making it easier to shop and eat out without spending extra on transportation. Some even opt to stay with relatives or friends to save money and have a more personal experience. Pack smart, travel light! Know your airline's baggage limit to avoid extra fees. Pack essentials, travel-size toiletries, and versatile outfits. A well-packed carry-on can save you time and hassle at the airport. Filipinos are also known for maximizing their luggage space—rolling clothes, stuffing socks inside shoes, and leaving room for pasalubong. Don't forget to bring an extra foldable bag because chances are, you'll need more space for all the goodies you'll bring back! Plan your itinerary wisely Make the most of your trip by balancing must-see attractions with relaxation. Research free activities, walking tours, and discount passes to experience more without overspending. Filipinos often squeeze in side trips—whether it's a quick shopping run, an impromptu food trip, or visiting a famous landmark nearby. Planning ahead ensures you don't waste time and get the most out of every moment! Stay prepared with travel insurance A small expense for travel insurance can be a lifesaver in case of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost baggage. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Sulit ang summer mo! Before traveling, check entry requirements, restrictions, and any necessary health documents. Some destinations still require specific travel declarations. Whether it's a trip home or an adventure abroad, planning ahead ensures a smooth, budget-friendly vacation. So, saan ang punta mo this summer? Plan wisely, travel smart, and enjoy every moment! Before you jet off, make sure you've got everything sorted for a hassle-free trip: Book flights early – Seat sales usually happen months before peak season. Sign up for airline alerts! Use travel rewards – Credit cards with travel perks can save you money on flights and hotels. Pack smart – Know baggage limits and pack light to avoid extra fees. Secure travel insurance – A small expense that can save you big in case of emergencies. Check travel advisories – Always be updated on entry requirements and restrictions.
Filipino Times
27-03-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Better Days Ahead: PH gov't pushes better laws and opportunities for OFWs!
Our hardworking Overseas Filipinos are continuously moving toward a better life — not just for themselves, but for their families back home. And the good news? The Philippine government is stepping up its efforts to support this journey. From stronger job protections to scholarship programs and new benefits, positive changes are coming to make every OFW's experience safer, more rewarding, and more secure. This week, The Filipino Times takes a closer look at the new laws and benefits that overseas Filipino workers can look forward to. The more jobs, the merrier The increasing demand for Filipino workers abroad is creating more opportunities for OFWs to secure their dream jobs. At the Global Labor Market Conference 2025, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne Caunan shared that they are collaborating with several countries eager to hire more Filipino talent. 'Various countries expressed their interest in hiring more Filipino skilled workers in the healthcare industry, hospitality, construction, and other sectors,' Caunan said, following 10 high-level bilateral meetings with countries including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Egypt, Jordan, Finland, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Libya, Indonesia, and the Bahamas. Additionally, during the World Governments Summit 2025, the department emphasized its push for more job openings for skilled Filipino professionals in the UAE. Thanks to these efforts, OFWs can look forward to an even wider range of job opportunities in the near future. The Philippine government is not only working to expand job opportunities for OFWs but also to improve their working conditions and protect their rights. During the Forum on ILO Conventions 189 and 190, DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac announced upcoming discussions with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and collaborations with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to strengthen international migration laws and migrant rights under the Bagong Pilipinas governance agenda. 'Under the leadership of President Marcos, we are continuously working to protect Filipino migrant workers,' Cacdac said, highlighting the two-billion-peso AKSYON Fund, which offers legal, financial, and other assistance to OFWs, particularly domestic workers. Additionally, President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. allocated PHP 8.79 billion to support the department's efforts in bringing home distressed fellow 'kababayans.' Scam jobs: 'Di sapat kung 'di tapat Stronger bilateral relations and legal rescues during tough times are important, but preventive measures are equally crucial. The Philippine government has partnered with Meta and TikTok to remove 98,000 recruitment scam posts across their platforms. Through the DMW, the government also launched the Anti-Illegal Recruitment and Trafficking in Persons (AIRTIP) program, which holds seminars for OFWs and their families to raise awareness and combat human trafficking and illegal recruitment. This ensures that no kababayan is left uninformed and they will be able to recognize and avoid potential scams. Seafarers, matibay sa Magna Carta Filipino seafarers, around 600,000 strong, often face challenges in claiming wages, salaries, and benefits. But with the newly signed Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, these processes are now clearer and more secure. The law also strengthens protection and opportunities for seafarers—from hiring to retirement—ensuring their rights are upheld every step of the way. 'Sinisiguro ng Magna Carta of Seafarers at IRR na ito ang inyong mga karapatan laban sa diskriminasyon at pananakot,' President Marcos said. With the IRR recently signed, improved cooperation between government agencies, maritime stakeholders, and labor groups is expected, ensuring a stronger future for the country's seafaring workforce. To a brighter future These new laws, stronger bilateral ties, and growing job opportunities are all for OFWs and those dreaming of working abroad. Just make sure you stay informed and understand these changes, so you can make the most of every chance that comes your way. Because at the end of the day, your future isn't just about finding work—it's about finding the right opportunities, with the right protection, and building the life you deserve.
Filipino Times
13-03-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Happy Women's Month! Celebrating the Different Faces and Successes of Pinay OFWs in the UAE
Women are strong not because they never fall, but because they refuse to let their struggles define them. This is especially true for many overseas Filipina workers in the UAE, who continue to break barriers, rise above challenges, and prove that they are never easily broken or defeated. Moreover, these women don't just rise through the ranks—they inspire others and make a lasting impact in their communities. International Women's Month, celebrated every March, honors the remarkable achievements, contributions, and struggles of women globally. This week, The Filipino Times shines a spotlight on inspiring women who have climbed the ladder of success, broken barriers, and made a meaningful impact in their communities. Driving toward success A woman's passion never dies, especially when she's ambitious and driven, relentlessly climbing the ladder of success. Take Dubai-based Pinay OFW Jez Ronquillo as an example. Sixteen years ago, she moved to Dubai to pursue opportunities in procurement and logistics, her passion and experience from the Philippines. However, when her father's health required attention and work in her field was scarce, she took on any job—starting as a family driver, then a taxi driver, and eventually a limo chauffeur. Jez Ronquillo, Senior Operations Officer Despite the negative comments, she persevered in searching for better opportunities. 'Usually, sasabihin ng mga tao sa paligid ko pag nag-aaply ako ng better jobs, 'Di mo kaya yun, mahirap yun, mag sisimula ka na naman,'' Jez shared. Still, she stayed positive, knowing her education and experience in procurement and logistics were her 'weapons' to climb the career ladder. After many applications, she landed a Senior Operations Officer role, more than tripling her salary from when she first started. 'You are capable. Magtiwala ka sa kakayahan mo, sa skills mo, lalo na sa sarili mo. Keep shining, growing, and be an inspiration to others.' – Jez Ronquillo, Senior Operations Officer Nag-Paluto lang, panalo na! In a world where competition can be tough, especially with big players in the industry, Myla Bijasa, Managing Partner of Paluto Restaurant, proves that women can rise above. Founded in 2017, Paluto was born from her passion for Filipino culture, seafood, and the unique 'paluto'-style dining experience. Myla Bijasa, Managing Partner of Paluto Restaurant Myla Bijasa, Managing Partner of Paluto Restaurant However, her journey wasn't without its share of challenges. 'Some people would tell me, 'You cannot compete with other nationalities.' Kasi back then, most restaurant owners were non-Filipinos,' Myla shared. Nevertheless, her determination and love for Filipino food and culture drove the restaurant to success and expansion, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, Myla realized that the key to progress wasn't about racing ahead, but about working collaboratively with a trustworthy team. 'Value relationships more than profit above all,' she said. 'By fostering collaborative relationships with management and suppliers, we were able to effectively recover and expand our business.' Today, Paluto Restaurant is a thriving seaside gem, cherished by seafood lovers who crave high-quality Filipino cuisine and exceptional service. 'Our resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit are truly remarkable here in UAE and all over the world. Embrace our Filipino heritage, celebrate successes, and never underestimate the power of your dreams. You are making a difference, and your presence enriches the lives of those around you. Keep shining, keep striving, and keep believing in your limitless potential.' – Myla Bijasa, Managing Partner of Paluto Restaurant Mama ng bayan A woman's true strength lies not only in her career but in her ability to nurture her family while positively impacting her community. For Civil Design Engineer Hyacynth de Leon Gonzales, her love as a single mother extends beyond her home to her workplace and the community. Hyacynth de Leon Gonzales, Civil Design Engineer As a mother to her 13-year-old son, Hyacynth is also a guiding figure at work and a respected mother figure in her community. Through her involvement with the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers – UAE (PICE-UAE), she has supported an engineering scholar, classroom renovations, donations for schools, blood drives, and many more social community projects both in the Philippines and in the UAE. Her efforts have helped foster education and brighter futures for those in need. 'It's the fellowship and camaraderie with fellow engineers that makes me want to be involved in other volunteering projects,' Hyacinth shared. 'There was this Operation Smile bookfair where the beneficiaries are babies and children with cleft lip or palate. I felt that even in a small way, I know I have extended help to someone.' 'Go out, meet new people, be interactive and have a life. Volunteering does not only impact the community, but it also benefits us. It is a humbling opportunity, a feeling of belongingness, and at times, a good diversion from our chaotic environment.' – Engr. Hyacynth de Leon Gonzales Filipina women in the UAE The women in the UAE are shining examples of determination, resilience, and compassion that not only allowed them to rise above challenges but also empower others and make a significant impact in their communities. As we celebrate International Women's Month, let us remember that true strength lies not in perfection but in the perseverance to keep going, the courage to rise after every fall, and the willingness to uplift others along the way. These women remind us that no matter the obstacles, we all have the power to overcome, achieve, and inspire change. The Filipino Times wishes all women in the UAE a happy International Women's Month. Saludo kami sa inyo!
