18 June 2014 - Over 600 Filipinos in Abu Dhabi attended the 116th Philippine Independence Day celebration of the Filipino community co-organized by the Bayanihan Council, the umbrella organization of all Filipino community groups in Abu Dhabi, and the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi at the Dalma Mall, Mussafah on June 13.
The day’s festivities began with a parade of the Philippine Embassy officials and staff, and leaders and members of the 47 Filipino organizations registered with the Embassy. The Drum and Lire Group of the Twenty First Century Private Academy served as the marching band. All organizations had muses and escorts in Filipiniana.
The welcome message was delivered by Engr. Tony Morales, Chairman of Bayanihan Council followed by the inspirational message delivered by Philippine Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Grace Princesa. Filipino songs and dances were rendered by Abu Dhabi Concert Group, Abu Dhabi Dance Club, Filipino Association for Computer Excellence and Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit at Mananayaw sa Abu Dhabi. A fashion show and “harana” were presented courtesy of Abu Dhabi Fashion Designers Guild and Brilliant Talents Kids and local singers Mr. Leo Mañalac and Mr. Gary Maique. The audience was also enthralled by the “Balagtasan” of nurses from the Filipino Nurses Association in the Emirates and students from the Philippine schools in Abu Dhabi (Philippine Emirates Private School, Twenty First Century Private Academy and Philippine National Schools). Harris Dio Smith closed the event with renditions of Filipino rock favorites “Laki sa Layaw”, “Nosi Balasi”, “Hallelujah”, and “Narda.” END