The Embassy of the Philippines in Doha and the Philippine Independence Day 2023 (PID23) Committee have fulfilled their promise to deliver an exceptional 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence with a grand celebration on June 12.
The recently concluded festivities marked the start of the much-anticipated happenings in the community to celebrate this momentous occasion. It was noted in the unveiling of PID23 Roadmap that this year’s programme would be extra special, showcasing Pinoy culture and heritage through various activities and events.
Starting last Monday, the Embassy joins the entire nation in the annual observance of the Proclamation of the Philippine Independence. With its leadership, Filipino expatriates in Qatar witnessed the following series of remarkable events, some of which were held for the first time.
Flag Raising
On the morning of June 12, the Philippine Embassy, together with the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), SSS, and Pag-IBIG held flag-raising rites with the diplomatic missions of ASEAN Member States in Doha, government ministries from Qatar, and leaders of Filipino groups at the Katara Drama Theater to officially kick off PID23.
Thanksgiving
As a way of giving thanks to everyone who contributed to its success, the Embassy hosted a community breakfast. The event was held after the flag-raising ceremony.
Prof Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, general manager of Katara Cultural Village, was the guest of honour.
In her remarks, Philippine Ambassador to Qatar HE Lillibeth V. Pono said,
"I am proud to say that together, the Filipinos in Qatar have left and continue to leave an indelible mark on Qatar’s unique story of progress and development.”
Ambassador Pono also highlighted the presence of more than 260,000 Filipino expatriates in Qatar. She further stressed the rich maritime culture and history of the Philippines and Qatar in her remarks.
The flag-raising ceremony was followed by the recognition of Qatar-based Filipinos who recently made headlines for bagging world records and triumphing at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games.
Guests witnessed some cultural performances including the National Dance of the Philippines ‘Tinikling’ as well.
A breakfast buffet that featured well-loved Filipino food staples capped off the event.
Flag Lighting
In a historic first, three architectural landmarks in Doha were illuminated with the colours of the Philippine flag in celebration of PID23.
Philippine Embassy personnel led by Ambassador Pono, along with several Filipinos, trooped to The Torch Doha, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, and Al Jaber Twin Towers to witness the illumination of the Philippine flag on giant digital screens.
Coming Soon
All Filipinos in Qatar are invited to visit the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel on June 23, 2023, for a day filled with cultural shows, special performances, and more surprises as part of PID23 celebration.
Filipina celebrity, Ms Sofia Andres, will also take center stage to entertain fans and event attendees.
Other activities include community breakfast, parade, regional exhibits, traditional Filipino games, battle of Filipino bands, vocal solo contest, Mr. & Ms. PID23, distinct Filipino achievers awards and proclamation of competition winners.