Dubai: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, along with Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, and Ambrosio Brian F. Enciso III, Philippine Consul-General in Dubai, joined a mass celebration at the Dubai World Trade Centre to commemorate the 128th anniversary of the Republic of the Philippines' independence.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event was organized by the "Emirates Loves Philippines" page and attracted over 60,000 Filipinos, residents, and visitors. This turnout underscored the strong ties between the UAE and the Philippines and highlighted the UAE's foundation of tolerance, openness, and cultural diversity.
During his address at the celebration, Sheikh Nahyan emphasized that Philippine Independence Day is a moment to honor the founding values of the Republic of the Philippines: courage, sacrifice, faith, and a commitment to dignity and freedom. He noted that these values are embodied by the Filipino community living and working in the UAE.
Reflecting on his previous address, Sheikh Nahyan expressed that his admiration for the Filipino community's contribution to UAE society has only grown. He acknowledged that the UAE is home to people from over 200 nationalities and that the country views this diversity as a defining strength, rooted in mutual respect between cultures and traditions.
Sheikh Nahyan credited the UAE's wise leadership, including President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for navigating regional and international pressures with steadiness and cohesion. He also praised the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his commitment to the UAE's development.
He highlighted that the Filipino community has become an integral part of the UAE's success story and was particularly moved by entries in the "Our Life in the UAE" competition, which reflected values such as love of family, dedication to work, resilience, and generosity.
Ambassador Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for fostering an environment that embraces cultural diversity and coexistence. He stated that the celebration was a testament to the strong relationship between the two countries and the standing the Filipino community enjoys in the UAE.
"This occasion is a chance to celebrate the close ties between our two peoples," Ambassador Ver said. "It also reflects the sense of belonging and gratitude that Filipinos feel toward the UAE, a country that has become a second home to hundreds of thousands of them."
The celebration featured a comprehensive programme of cultural, artistic, and entertainment activities. Live performances were a highlight, with Filipino actress and singer Arci Mu±oz headlining the event alongside P-pop acts 1st.One, G22, and ALAMAT. Their performances attracted enthusiastic crowds and showcased the global reach of Filipino contemporary music.
Additionally, the programme included heritage and cultural performances rooted in Filipino folklore, such as the Sagala pageant and folk dances, which brought the richness and diversity of Filipino culture to life.