With Philippine Consul General Marford Angeles (second from left) and Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Director-General of CDA (third from left) and FilSoc officers at the awarding ceremony on December 9, 2024.

The Filipino Social Club-Dubai (FilSoc) has been honored with the Platinum Award by the Community Development Authority (CDA), marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history. This accolade, presented on December 9 at the Jumeirah Emirates Tower, recognizes FilSoc as one of the 25 most distinguished non-profit organizations under the Ethraa Empowerment Program. The award ceremony was graced by notable personalities, including Philippine Consul General Marford Angeles, FilSoc President Ericson Reyes, Vice President Ellanie Villena, and other key officers. It celebrated the exemplary efforts of FilSoc and other organizations in enriching Dubai’s social fabric. "This recognition truly reflects the Filipino spirit—our unity, dedication, and passion for serving others," FilSoc said in a statement. “It’s a proud moment for FilSoc and the entire Filipino community, showcasing our ability to shine and create a positive impact in this diverse society.” The Platinum Award is part of the Ethraa Empowerment Program, which evaluates non-profit organizations based on service quality, innovation, and alignment with Dubai’s social development priorities. Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Director-General of CDA, emphasized the importance of such initiatives. “Honoring distinguished non-profit organizations reflects Dubai’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in social services,” she said, noting that these efforts align with Dubai Social Agenda 33 and the emirate’s vision for sustainable social development. FilSoc’s award highlights its contributions to supporting vulnerable groups, fostering community solidarity, and addressing social challenges through innovative solutions. Buhumaid underscored the crucial role of non-profits in complementing government efforts. “These organizations serve as a vital extension to government entities, offering exceptional services that meet the local community’s needs,” she said. The CDA’s evaluation process encourages organizations to improve their services continuously. The criteria focus on the quality and impact of services, with financial rewards motivating non-profits to expand their reach and impact. “We are proud of the vital role played by non-profit organizations in enriching lives and strengthening social cohesion,” Buhumaid said. She added that the evaluation system sets a benchmark for excellence, encouraging organizations to adopt innovative approaches to social challenges. FilSoc’s leadership expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed their commitment to serving the Filipino community and beyond. “This achievement is not just ours—it belongs to every Filipino who continues to inspire, support, and work for the betterment of our community. Let us keep making waves, giving back, and showing the world the best of the Filipino spirit,” they said. The UAE has long been a hub for Filipino talent, with over 700,000 Filipinos calling it home. ICA/Expat Media
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