‘Handog-Pugay ng Konsulado’ honours envoy, UAE entities

The Philippine Consulate General in Dubai has muted the June 12, 1898 128th anniversary of the Philippine Independence from Spain.

Through a historic conferment, the consular mission, also honoured five UAE-based institutions, five Filipino organisations, and Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver in connection to the three-and-a half months regional turbulence.

They, who not only have been there all along; but, had specifically helped in the amelioration of the depressing state of some Filipinos with 856 employees and stranded tourists repatriated from March to April.

With only the serenade of violinist Ian Tocle and cellist NIlisa Marie Barredo Victor as the form of entertainment, the consular mission, hosted the first-ever “Dinner Reception with the Filipino Community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates,” on Wednesday evening.

In his Filipino-English Welcome Address, Consul General Ambrosio Brian Enciso III stated that the “scaled-down and toned-down celebration” was determined, considering the “energy and economic toll on our Motherland resulting from the current fragile security situation in the Middle East.”

In addition was the recent catastrophic 7.8 temblor that pummeled “some provinces in Mindanao.”

“We have come to celebrate; but we should not forget our countrymen back home who are going through so much. Please remember them in your thoughts and prayers. Open your hearts to them. Remember them in your plans.”

While “no official call for international donations” had been announced, Enciso said the interested to extend aid to the earthquake victims, may do so with “your own networks and preferred humanitarian channels, directly by way of https://kaagapay.dswd.gov.ph of the Philippines’ Department of Social Welfare and Development.

From the Philippine Independence Day Message video clip of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.: “Let this day be a reminder that everything we possess and enjoy is a precious inheritance entrusted by those who came before us. It is incumbent upon us, the present generation, to carry forward the duty of building a nation where justice, dignity and opportunity are not distant promises but the daily inheritance of every Filipino.”

Consul Aleah Marie Gica introduced the landmark “Handog-Pugay ng Konsulado” (“Dedication and Tribute of the Consulate General”): “The establishment of this recognition is anchored on the Philippine Foreign Service to safeguard the rights and protect the welfare and interests of Filipinos overseas. It serves as a formal expression of gratitude to individuals and institutions whose exceptional actions have significantly advanced the dignity, safety and well-being of overseas Filipinos and whose contributions merit enduring institutional remembrance.”

“The recognition is conferred upon individuals, groups, institutions and partners who have rendered highly meritorious and extraordinary service beyond normal expectations and substantial contributions to the Filipino Community and to the consulate general.”

The “exclusive” glass trophy -- designed with the Philippine flag, representative of the “values of patriotism, service, unity and excellence embodied by the recipient – “is a step above,” the “regular certificates of appreciation for meritorious contributions.”

The recipients: UAE Food Bank, Dubai Police-International Cooperation Department, General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs-Violators and Foreigners Follow-Up Section, Filipino Social Club, Sangguniang Masang Pilipino (Philippine Masses Council) International Inc., Rashid Hospital, Grand Infiniti Medical Centre, American Hospital, Love Josie and Infinite Communities, Philippine Business Council-Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver.

Ver, who, in his Keynote Address, expressed his pride for the countless enabling contributions of Filipinos to the entire UAE ecosystem, was honoured for “his exemplary leadership, public service and unwavering dedication to the welfare of Filipinos in the UAE.”

“As head of the One Country Team, he provided guidance, direction and steadfast support during periods of crises ensuring that government assistance reach those most in need. His commitment to public service inspired collective action across government agencies, community organisations and volunteers. That is why we are deeply honoured to recognise His Excellency, the Ambassador, as a true embodiment of a dedicated and compassionate diplomat and public servant.”

Mariecar Jara-Puyod, Senior Reporter