Emirates Celebrates 127th Philippine Independence Day With Sheikh Nahyan's Inspiring Speech
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, attended the 127th Philippine Independence celebration, "Kalayaan 2025," at Dubai World Trade Centre. Organised by the "Emirates Loves Philippines" platform with Dubai Police, the event gathered over 40,000 Filipinos in the UAE, alongside officials and community leaders. Sheikh Nahyan congratulated the Filipino community on their national day.
Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the UAE's friendship with the Philippines, noting the contributions of Filipinos in various sectors like healthcare and education. He emphasised shared values such as openness and mutual respect between both nations. The UAE is a global hub where over 200 nationalities coexist peacefully. Under President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's leadership, the country embraces human fraternity and coexistence.
The event showcased cultural performances by Filipino artists from The Filipino Channel, including Kai Montinola and Julia Barretto. It featured traditional dances, music, art exhibitions, and food stalls offering Filipino delicacies. Attendees enjoyed entertainment zones for kids, cosplay shows, video gaming corners, and an education area for Filipino schools.
Sheikh Nahyan announced a new initiative close to his heart: a writing competition titled "What the UAE Means to Me." In partnership with Sandooq Al Watan, this competition invites residents to share their stories about life in the UAE. Submissions can be short stories or poems in Arabic or English. Winning entries will be published in commemorative books.
Honourable Hans Cacdac from the Department of Migrant Workers of the Philippines remarked that "Kalayaan" celebrates independence and highlights partnerships enabling Filipinos' contributions to both nations. Supported by Dubai Police and Dubai Immigration, notable attendees included Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri and Honourable Arvic V. Arevalo from the Philippine Embassy.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The UAE-Philippines relationship dates back before official diplomatic ties were established on 19 August 1974. The Philippine Embassy opened in Abu Dhabi in 1980; later followed by the UAE Embassy in Manila in 1989. Since then, cooperation has grown significantly. Today, many Filipinos play vital roles across key sectors in the UAE's development journey.
Elena C. Cruz of Infinite Communities stated that "Kalayaan" showcases Filipino spirit and unites everyone in celebration. The event featured stunt bike shows and raffles under the Philippine Business Council's umbrella. It underscored deep-rooted ties between both countries while celebrating cultural diversity and tolerance.
Sheikh Nahyan encouraged everyone to participate in sharing their experiences through writing: "Your stories matter," he said. He urged families and co-workers to express their life experiences in the UAE through words that inspire others. Winning entries will be celebrated at a national ceremony with meaningful prizes.
In closing remarks, Sheikh Nahyan expressed gratitude to all attendees for embodying courage, generosity, family values, achievement and unity across cultures within the UAE community: "As I look around this joyful celebration tonight," he said warmly acknowledging those present at this vibrant tribute to Filipino culture within UAE society today!
With inputs from WAM
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