ABU DHABI // The Philippine ambassador to the UAE paid tribute to the sacrifices and hard work of thousands of expatriates ahead of Thursday’s celebrations to mark their nation’s 116th independence day.
“I only have to see the overseas Filipinos and their families to remember the heroism of our forefathers who fought for our freedom,” Grace Princesa said.
“At so much cost to life and limb, they venture out to care for their loved ones’ needs and indirectly help our beloved country.”
The Philippines celebrates the anniversary of the first public reading of the Act of the Declaration of Independence from Spain on June 12, 1898.
Sixty per cent of the UAE's 700,000 Filipinos are professional workers, more than a quarter are in the skilled sector, and 10 per cent are domestic workers.
“We are considered the fourth-largest expatriate community in the UAE,” Ms Princesa said.
“We have helped in the phenomenal growth of this country in our capacity as engineers, nurses, doctors, accountants and in the services, skilled and non-skilled categories.
“We pray that the Philippine leadership will emulate the sacrifices of our great Filipinos and make it easier for them to migrate out of choice, not out of necessity.”
Pefenito Elmido, 61, a compensation analyst in Abu Dhabi, said he hoped Filipinos would not forget the essence of the celebrations. He has worked in Bahrain, Qatar and in the UAE for 27 years.
“We should also focus on what we have achieved since we attained our independence,” Mr Elmido said.
He will be among more than 1,000 Filipinos expected to gather at Dalma Mall in Mussaffah for the festivities on Friday.
Activities will include a parade of diplomats and Filipino groups, cultural dances and patriotic song performances and a Flores de Mayo, or Flowers of May, show by the Abu Dhabi Designers Guild.
“This is a special day for us to dance, sing and to witness our rich culture showcased here in the UAE and in other parts of the world,” said Miriam Serjio, chairwoman of the organising committee.
Tony Morales, chairman of Bayanihan-UAE, an umbrella group of 50 organisations in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, added his tributes.
“We are proud to celebrate this auspicious occasion with the community here in the UAE,” Mr Morales said.
“June 12 reminds us of the sacrifices of our forefathers, as well as our rich heritage and culture.”
In Dubai, highlights of the festivities taking place at Al Nasr Leisureland tomorrow will include performances by renowned Filipino singer Kasama Sina Jed Madela and actress Jessy Mendiola, who are travelling from Manila.
There will be a music and dance festival, job fair, voters' registration for the 2016 presidential elections and a beauty pageant.
rruiz@thenational.ae
