Filipinos in UAE share their love for country on Independence Day

Mariecar Jara-Puyod, Senior Reporter

Christine Filomeno: “I cherish our culture of elder respect and family values. It makes every Filipino home welcoming. It motivates overseas Filipinos to come home. I will promote these by way of strong family bonds and happiness through gratitude, not materialism.”

Elleen Claridades: “As a Mindanaoan, I would like to preserve the Tnalak, the traditional hand-woven cloth by the T’boli people that represents major celebrations in life. Let us patronise and buy authentic Tnalak fabrics and products.”

American University of Sharjah visiting researcher Jeconiah Dreisbach: “My country is emerging as a great foodie destination for its great variety of regional cuisines. It is the source of some of the most delicious and sumptuous fruits. Let us all share these to our international friends and colleagues. Let us and encourage them how to cook and patronise these for the world to experience.”

A&R Partners Ltd. managing partner Rowena Aggabao: “The Philippines’ greatest gem is its people. More than the scenic tourist spots, it is the indomitable Filipino spirit and hospitality that makes our country a prime world-class destination. Let us start from within. We must ensure that all our endeavours are for the betterment of humanity. We must strive to achieve excellence in all that we do. Be recognised globally for our exemplary work. Be on top of our game.”

Carlo Cueto of Cebu Province: “Rich culture. Delicious food spread. Beautiful landscapes. Friendly people. Tourism campaigns, the social media and cultural events help.”

Salma Rehabiltation Hospital Marketing head Joanne Rico: “I love most the islands which I visit myself and show how amazing these are via my social media.”

Gawi Travel and Tourism director Joel Pontanares: “Future generations ought to know, learn from and enjoy our nation’s abundant natural resources which all Filipinos must preserve. Domestic and international tourism is the way.”

Flora Mae Magpalo: “The people are hospitable and kind no matter how hard life could be. We do not forget to smile that makes others smile as well. This is how travellers identify us Filipinos. These and all our town fiestas like what we have in my home province of La Union, complete with sports, beauty pageants and the carnivals that make us treasure family bondings, must be disseminated.”

The Cultured Group LLC chief executive officer Babylyn Buchan: “My home, the Philippines, is vital to my identity. The Filipino creativity and artisanal talents in creating sustainable and ethical products is something I would want to world to recognise. From hand-woven fabrics, hand-finished embroideries and clothing, handmade home furniture and fashion accessories - our local artisans’ attention to details and the passion of doing these for a living never ceases to amaze me. Impact marketing, branding and sale in the international market shall have these known.”

Content creator Emil Barcenilla: “Through our social media platforms, we shall let the world know about our enduring family values, especially those which demonstrate our deep affection and care for the welfare of our parents, siblings, nephews and nieces, even though we already have our own families.”

Actress/make-up artist Irene Villaroya: “I will promote the rich culture and landscape of my birthplace and home of my race by way of the Filipinos’ hospitality and great talents.”

International correspondent Aisha Meguela Bebillo Vanli: “The most precious asset of the Philippines is the unshakeable love of Filipinos for their family. We all are for the happiness, comfort and safety of our loved ones. Let us show the world how.”

NMC Specialty Hospital (AI Ain) Senior Marketing executive Wilbert Cantor: “Our beautiful and unparalleled tourist attractions and the tender love and care culture which I love most and which I believe is the best we could offer to ourselves and our visitors is what we must promote. I started, by using my soclal media accounts. Through my WhatsApp status from which I receive a lot of enquiries, a former hospital colleague recently visited the Philippines.”