Ashraf Siddiqui
Doha
Filipino community members joined the Embassy of the Philippines in Qatar to celebrate Qatar National Sport Day at the Education Centre, Qatar Foundation, on Saturday. The event was titled ‘Yantok at Kamao: Arnis and Boxing Exhibition’.
Present on the occasion were HE Lillibeth V. Pono, ambassador of the Philippines to Qatar; Abdullah Mohammed Al Dosari, president of activities and events, Qatar Sports for All Federation, Ministry of Sports and Youth; Serge Van Poelvoorde, executive manager, Qatar Gymnastics Federation; Danijel Saric, Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum; Agnes Pagaduan, area manager Philippines Airlines; Dahlia Agbanlog’ chairperson, Kulinarya Qatar and Greg Loayon, chairman Philippines Business Council Qatar, besides a number of embassy officials, community leaders and members.
HE Lillibeth V. Pono in her address on the occasion said that February has a special significance in both Qatar and Philippines. While Qatar Annual Sports Day is celebrated in February, National Arts Month is celebrated in the same month in the Philippines.
Sports and arts, she added, always unify people. “I am very happy that officials from various institutions are present here with us. That indicates the great support given to Filipino activities. It is also shows that all communities in Qatar are living together in harmony.”
Abdullah Mohammed Al Dosari said that Qatar National Sport Day highlights the importance of physical exercise in an individual’s life. He thanked the Philippine embassy for involving Filipino community members in activities marking the day and also for inviting him.
Talking to Qatar Tribune, Greg Loayon, chairman, Philippines BuÅsiness Council, Qatar thanked the embassy for organising a great community event to showcase Philippines sports, while aligning with Qatar’ vision of focusing on the health and wellbeing of all its citizens and residents.
