Latest news with #TheFilipinoTimesWatchlist
Filipino Times
14-03-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Nominations now open for The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Architects, Engineers, and Healthcare Professionals in Saudi Arabia & Bahrain
Great news for Filipino architects, engineers, and healthcare professionals worldwide! The Filipino Times Watchlist is getting bigger and better, expanding to regions across the globe, with upcoming editions planned in the USA, the UK and Europe, and Asia Pacific. The awarding set place For The Filipino Times Watchlist 2025 edition, top engineers, architects, and healthcare professionals will be awarded in three locations. The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects 2025 • Saudi Arabia & Bahrain – June 20, 2025 (awarding in Saudi Arabia) • Qatar & Kuwait – August 8, 2025 (awarding in Qatar) • UAE & Oman – November 21, 2025 (awarding in UAE) Winners of the country-level round will then vie for the regional title at The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects 2026, which will be announced on March 29, 2026. The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Healthcare Professionals 2025 • Saudi Arabia & Bahrain – June 21, 2025 (awarding in Saudi Arabia) • Qatar & Kuwait – August 9, 2025 (awarding in Qatar) • UAE & Oman – November 22, 2025 (awarding in UAE) Winners of the country-level round will then compete in The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Filipino Healthcare Professionals 2026, to be announced on March 30, 2026. Nominations are open Nominations are now officially open for The Filipino Times Watchlist 2025, a prestigious platform celebrating the outstanding achievements of Filipino professionals in these fields. For this year's cycle, the Watchlist Awards is currently accepting nominations exclusively for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, with opportunities for other countries to follow soon. Why nominate? The Filipino community in the Middle East has long been recognized for its invaluable contributions, particularly in engineering, architecture, and healthcare. Filipino architects and engineers play a key role in major developments, while Filipino healthcare professionals continue to serve as pillars of the region's medical industry. The Filipino Times Watchlist Awards aims to highlight these trailblazers and visionaries, giving them the recognition they deserve on a prestigious platform. Filipinos in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are encouraged to nominate deserving professionals who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and leadership in their respective industries. The nomination process is entirely online, making it accessible for everyone to submit their entries with ease. For now, nominations are exclusive to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. The nomination process for other countries in the Middle East will be announced soon, so stay tuned for updates. You may submit your nominations today at For more updates, follow The Filipino Times Watchlist on its social media account on Facebook, @tftwatchlist on Instagram, and @thefilipinotimeswatchlist on LinkedIn.
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.
Filipino Times
14-02-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
PICQS national president Lopez recognized at The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East Summit and Awards 2025
Engr. Asuncion Lopez is a seasoned Contracts Administrator at WSP Middle East, based in Doha, Qatar. With extensive expertise in contracts administration, claims management, and dispute resolution, she has played a crucial role in safeguarding project interests and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations. Her expertise in claims management and dispute resolution has led to the successful negotiation and settlement of complex claims, including variations and prolongation cost claims. Through her strategic approach and collaboration with legal teams and consultants, she has minimized financial risks while securing favorable outcomes. She has also demonstrated excellence in project close-out and final account settlement, ensuring the fulfillment of contractual obligations, reconciliation of final accounts, and resolution of outstanding issues. She has overseen the complete contract lifecycle, implemented risk assessment strategies, and ensured compliance with regulatory standards. Beyond her technical expertise, Engr. Lopez is a dynamic leader in the construction and quantity surveying professions. Now serving her second term as National President of the Philippine Institute of Certified Quantity Surveyors (PICQS), she is spearheading initiatives promoting professional development, international recognition, and strategic industry partnerships. She is also a Life Member of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) and a key contributor to the Lusail Plaza Towers project, a landmark development in Lusail City, Qatar. Engr. Lopez is one of this year's awardees at The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East Summit and Awards, where her outstanding contributions to the field were recognized. Her dedication to excellence and her role in advocating for the quantity surveying profession have made a significant impact not only within her organization but also across the industry in the Middle East.
Filipino Times
14-02-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Role of engineers and architects in handling disputes highlighted in TFT Watchlist 2025
Engineers and architects are playing a crucial role in addressing disputes within the construction and engineering industries, an industry expert said. This was highlighted during a solo presentation by Engr. Haitham K. M. Mokhtar, an Independent Expert Witness and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Practitioner, at The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East Summit 2025. Engr. Haitham K. M. Mokhtar, an Independent Expert Witness and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Practitioner In his presentation titled 'Role of Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods in Managing Project Claims, Leading to Sustainable Outcomes,' Engr. Mokhtar delved into the complexities of construction projects, where the involvement of multiple stakeholders and high stakes often leads to disputes. He emphasized that prompt and effective dispute resolution through methods like mediation, arbitration, conciliation, expert determination, and adjudication is essential to avoiding the lengthy and costly process of litigation. In drafting contracts, Engr. Mokhtar reminded the industry professionals that they should include well-drafted arbitration clauses to avoid legal complications. 'If you are a professional or a contract engineer, or the one preparing a contract or a purchase order, as a technical person, don't think only about the technical aspect or the engineering aspect in that agreement that you are creating, but also consider the legal consequences that can help later on, when the dispute happened,' Engr. Mokhtar said. He then urged the Filipino professionals in the engineering and architecture industry to decrease the legal knowledge gap by getting the appropriate certifications to effectively practice alternative dispute resolution methods. The presentation concluded with a call for increased awareness of ADR methods among industry professionals, emphasizing that these approaches are essential for creating sustainable outcomes in large-scale projects.
Filipino Times
14-02-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
AI in engineering, architecture: A partner, not a replacement
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is quickly reshaping the way we engage with technology, and its impact on engineering and architecture is driving a wave of innovation that's transforming industries. Yet, with this rapid advancement, many professionals are asking: Will AI replace our jobs? At The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East Summit 2025, Mohammad Arshad Ahmad, Data Science Leader and Founder of Decoding Data Science, addressed this pressing question. His keynote presentation, titled 'AI Agents: Transforming Engineering and Architecture in Everyday Life,' highlighted the powerful potential of AI to enhance, rather than replace, the roles of engineers and architects. What are AI agents? So, what exactly are AI agents? Simply put, AI agents are autonomous systems that can perform tasks, learn from experiences, and adapt to their environment. Just like how engineers and architects use tools like AutoCAD, which automates tasks for efficiency, everyday tools such as ChatGPT are examples of AI agents in action. However, AI agents go beyond automation; they are independent, goal-oriented, adaptive, and context-aware. They can handle complex, multi-domain tasks, which makes them highly versatile and valuable in engineering and architecture. Fearing AI A few years ago, the idea of using AI-driven systems for everyday tasks seemed almost unimaginable. But today, AI is becoming an inseparable part of our daily lives. As its popularity continues to grow, many people have become fearful of its potential to take over their jobs. During his keynote at The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East Summit 2025, Mohammad Arshad Ahmad addressed this concern head-on. Many people often ask him, 'Will AI replace my job?' To which he reassured the audience, 'It's not gonna replace your job.' He explained, 'It's just a transition that we have from computers,' drawing a comparison to the shifts in technology from stone to paper, and then to computers. Ahmad emphasized that AI is simply part of an ongoing technological evolution, not something that will render us obsolete. 'Start using it for your own work,' Ahmad encouraged the crowd, explaining that engineers and architects will have to learn Real-world AI applications During his presentation, Ahmad highlighted a real-world example from ADNOC, one of the region's most prominent companies, that uses AI for safety measures. 'If you go to the zone, they detect whether [the person] is wearing safety gear or a safety helmet,' he explained. This showcases how AI is being implemented to enhance workplace safety through smart surveillance systems. Ahmad also touched on the UAE government's efforts to push the country to the forefront of digital innovation. 'UAE is doing [to accomplish] flying taxis. They're doing urban planning, so this is something we need to know about,' he noted, emphasizing the country's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into its future developments. The importance of responsible AI usage With many companies in the UAE seeking to incorporate AI to drive their success, Ahmad emphasized the need for engineers and architects to embrace this technology. 'I always tell this to everyone, you engineers and architects, you are builders of our society. This is something all of you need to learn,' he urged, highlighting the crucial role professionals in these fields play in shaping the future. However, Ahmad cautioned against using AI blindly. 'To use AI, you need to be responsible,' he stressed. He warned that improper use could harm both individuals and their companies' reputations. 'If you don't use it properly, it'll be bad for you and the reputation of the company as well,' he added. For those eager to dive into AI, Ahmad advised taking a cautious and informed approach. 'Try to learn how to use AI in your free time. Don't blindly use this technology,' he encouraged, promoting mindful exploration. He also recommended that professionals use only AI tools that are approved by their companies to ensure safety and security. 'For example, if you use ChatGPT, it will go to a server and can be hacked or used by someone else,' he cautioned, stressing the importance of choosing secure platforms. Conclusion It is clear. AI is here to stay, and learning how to use it responsibly is no longer optional. Whether through self-learning, company-approved tools, or structured training, engineers and architects must embrace AI to remain competitive in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Ahmad thanked The Filipino Times for hosting such an insightful event. 'I'm thankful to The Filipino Times for hosting this event where people can come and share their knowledge,' he said, emphasizing the value of spreading knowledge on AI and its potential applications across various industries.
