A grand celebration of the Philippine Independence Day awaits all Kabayans in Qatar as this year’s programme is set to showcase Filipino culture and heritage through an array of activities and events
Preparations for the 125th Philippine Independence Day 2023 (PID23) celebration in Qatar are in full swing as the Executive Committee (ExeCom) unveiled the roadmap for the upcoming event.
This year’s celebration, slated to be held on June 23 at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, promises to be bigger than ever before — with cultural shows, dance performances, festivities and more surprises to showcase the rich heritage of the Philippines.
The PID23 ExeCom, consisting of representatives from Filipino community organisations, which is led by the Philippine Business Council Qatar (PBCQ), announced this year’s theme as ‘Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan’ (Freedom, Future, History) and the various Fiesta Filipinas-inspired programmes and activities lined up for the event.
Unveiling PID23 Roadmap
At a press conference organised by the PID23 ExeCom, it was emphasised that the celebrations aim is to promote the Philippines’ cultural heritage, traditions, and achievements, while encouraging the inclusiveness of every Filipino in the host country.
The press conference was held recently at Bos Geo Pares Restaurant in Al Muntazah. It was attended by members of the media, community leaders, and various stakeholders.
The press conference’s spotlight was on the PID23 Roadmap, presented by Isaias Z. Marcelo, the chair of the PID23 Programme Committee. According to him, the one-day celebration would include a range of activities such as Almusalang Bayan, Community Parade, Cultural and Traditional Performances, Bazaar, Regional Exhibits, Filipino Traditional Games, Battle of the Bands, Vocal Solo Contest, and Mutya ng Kalayaan 2023.
Filipino amateur singers in Qatar are encouraged to join the ‘Tagisan ng Kundiman Contest.’ Dance enthusiasts are also invited to participate in the ‘Tagisan Sa Sayaw ng Fiesta Filipinas.’
The ‘Laro ng Lahi’, featuring 15 traditional Filipino games, such as Kadang-Kadang, Tumbang Preso and more, is an exciting add-on to the event. There will be a specific time for the adults and kids to enjoy the Pinoy games.The PID23 ExeCom panel disclosed that there will also be a guest celebrity who will be performing at the event.
Honoring Filipino heroism
At the press conference, Jyerex Abrasado, chair of PID23 ExeCom and current Finance Director of PBCQ, delivered his opening remarks stressing the importance of PID23 for every Filipino citizen residing in Qatar. Abrasado underscored the event’s significance in promoting Filipino heroism, freedom, and the nation’s heritage.
"We have to make this PID23 event into something that once you attend and participate in the celebrations, you will go home with honour and pride on the heroism of our forefathers that lead to every Filipino’s freedom and our country’s nationhood,” said Abrasado. He further facilitated a ‘L.O.V.E. connection’ activity that engaged everyone in attendance. He translated these values into Love, Openness, Values, and Excellence.
Promoting inclusivity
Arch. Marvin Tejada, the Co-Chair of PID23, called for collaborative efforts to ensure the successful delivery of the event. He also highlighted the importance of promoting inclusiveness and extending the invitation to every Filipino compatriot in the community.
"There is significant value in promoting broader engagement from Filipino residents in Qatar across all job sectors, ensuring that everyone feels a sense of ownership and participation in the event. This marks a notable difference from last year’s celebration,” said Tejada.
The PID23 Co-Chair noted that this year’s event is different from the previous celebrations. He said it will not only cater to professional groups but will also involve grassroots organisations, ensuring inclusiveness in all segments.
Meanwhile, Chairman Abrasado also announced the plan to invite other nationalities to the event. "We want the entire community in Qatar, including other nationalities to have a glimpse of the entire Philippines in one day. We can invite other nationalities for them to feel the Philippines on this day if they haven’t visited our country,” he remarked.
Building greater unity
PID23 Qatar is poised to be a colorful display of Filipino culture and heritage with music, dance and cuisine that will offer an opportunity to build greater unity and understanding among the Filipino people in Qatar.
PID23 Committee urges the community to feel the color, rich tapestry and multi-cultural richness of the Philippine traditions at this annual event, commemorating the declaration of Philippine independence from Spain in 1898.