Filipino community in Kuwait marks anniversary of 126th Independence Day

By Ricky Laxa
Staff Writer

The Filipino community in Kuwait marked its 126th Independence Day anniversary  at the Boulevard Ballroom Friday. The full day event was attended by approximately thousand Filipinos working in different sectors.

The momentous occasion was graced by members of the diplomatic community, invited guests and a law maker from the Philippines.

In his speech, Philippine Ambassador to Kuwait His Excellency Jose Cabrera III reminded Filipinos of their identity,  the true meaning and value of being a Filipino and that being proud of  their ethnicity is essential.

A congressman from Philippines Ron Salo, who is on a visit to the Middle East also gave a brief remarks assuring Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) of the Philippine government’s tireless task to ensure of their welfare and safety.

Philippine Labor Attache Atty. Manuel Dimaano, Welfare Officer Genevieve Ardiente and spouse of the Philippine Ambassador were also present in the occasion.

Highlights of the event included Optometrist and medical services, Nail Art and Story Book reading by TSOK, Photo Booth, Sketch Painting and Food Festival. Community lunch was served to everyone. A ceremonial cutting of the cake immediately followed officiated by His Excellency Cabrera, Labor Attache Manalo, Welfare Officer Ardiente and spouse of the Ambassador.

Video greetings for the occasion from Arnel Ignacio of Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac, Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and President of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos Jr. were shown on screen.

The staff of the Philippine Embassyand MIgrant Workers Office delivered a song called “Isang Dugo, Isang Lahi, Isang Diwa” (One Blood, One Race, One Ideal).  Cultural presentations from different provincial regions of the Philippines followed. The event ended with the announcement of winners from the cultural presentations.