During the Philippine Consulate General's diplomatic reception at raffles Dubai on June 10, 2026. FILIPINO SOCIAL CLUB

The Philippine Consulate General in Dubai gathered Filipino diplomats, business leaders and community advocates for a diplomatic reception celebrating Philippine Independence Day, highlighting the role of Filipinos in strengthening ties between the Philippines and the UAE. Held at Raffles Dubai on Wednesday (June 10), the reception, dubbed Handog Pugay, commemorated the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence and brought together key figures from the Filipino community and diplomatic corps. The event was led by Consul General Ambrosio Brian Enciso and attended by Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, members of the Philippine Embassy and Consulate, representatives of the Philippine Business Council, media, community leaders and invited dignitaries. In his keynote address, Enciso encouraged Filipinos in the UAE to remain proud of their heritage while continuing to contribute to the development of both their homeland and their adopted country. He highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the Philippines and the UAE and acknowledged the important role played by the Filipino community in helping strengthen bilateral relations. The reception also recognised outstanding Filipino community leaders whose organisations have made significant contributions to public service and community development. Filipino Social Club President Ericson Reyes and Infinite Communities Director Josie Conlu received awards in recognition of their organisations’ “exemplary public service and dedication.” The recognition underscored the important role community organisations play in supporting Filipinos across the Emirates through volunteerism, outreach programmes and cultural initiatives. The diplomatic reception formed part of a series of Philippine Independence Day celebrations taking place across the UAE this month, reflecting the enduring connection between the Philippines and the nearly one million Filipinos living and working in the Emirates. As the Philippines celebrates more than a century of independence, officials used the occasion to reaffirm the community’s shared commitment to nation-building, cultural pride and stronger Philippines-UAE relations. ICA/Expat Media
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