Dubai, UAE 13 June 2020 – On the occasion of the 122nd anniversary of the Philippine Independence Day last 12 June 2020, the Philippine Embassy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) presented the Filipino Social Club (FilSoc) the “Parangal sa Araw ng Kasarinlan” at Downtown Dubai, where the Philippine flag was displayed on the iconic Burj Khalifa on such momentous night.

Mr. Ericson P. Reyes, FilSoc President, along with Board of Directors Mr. Ahmad Mohammad Abdullah Almatrooshi and Mr. Alan S. Bacason accepted the inaugural award bestowed by Philippine Ambassador to the UAE H.E. Hjayceelyn M. Quintana. The accolade was given in recognition of the club’s institution-building efforts for Filipinos in the UAE.
Being a year-old licensed organization under the Community Development Authority of the Government of Dubai, the Filipino Social Club started projects – ranging from social welfare activities, sports, cultural and entertainment events. They have also collaborated with other licensed organizations in serving the interests of the Filipino community living in the UAE.
Ambassador Quintana commended the club in its endeavors and initiatives in reaching out to fellow Kabayans in the previous months with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic threat. “Over the past year, and through the pandemic, The Filipino Social Club has represented the modern Filipino identity that Emirati and international institutions in the UAE can connect and partner with,” said Amb. Quintana.

“We are grateful and deeply honored to have been given this significant award as an acknowledgment of the organization’s efforts to serve our fellow Kabayans. This award is for all our members and volunteers who unceasingly share their time, talents, and resources for the benefit of the Filipino community,” said Mr. Bacason, also the club’s legal representative.

“Their example should serve as an inspiration for all Filipinos and Filipino groups to strive, to excel, and to cultivate connections to further ensure the meaningful participation of Filipinos in the wonderful multicultural community of the UAE,” Amb. Quintana added.

“This award will serve as an encouragement and inspiration for all of us to continue serving the community and to do whatever we can to the best of our capacities and available resources,” said President Reyes.