Around 140 participants came together in a festive family day organized by Alwali Training and Development Center (ATDC) and the Philippine Caregiver Society (PBCS).
Filled with enthusiasm and teeming with excitement, caregivers along with their families and friends gathered to celebrate the colourful display of Filipino culture, emphasizing thanksgiving and togetherness. This event took place at the Plaza Swimming Pool in Karrana, Budaiya on November 22, 2024.
One of the highlights of the day was the presence of Consul Bryan Jess Baguio of Philippine Embassy Manama, mounting the platform for an inspiring speech. In his address he highlighted the role of the organizations in promoting health care for Filipinos in Bahrain and the collaborative efforts with the embassy.
The event was honoured by the attendance of Mr. Yusuf Lori, the Director of the Information and Follow-up of the Capital Governorate. His commendation of PBCS as well as the ATDC for their active involvement in community activities underscored the significant impact of these groups’ presence in the local community.
Maria Perez Carmona, president of PBCS and ATDC Operations Manager said, ”We believe in strong relationships within the community. This event provided a well-deserved break for our hard working members to let loose and be reunited with old friends’’. She also added that ‘’It was one way of maintaining Filipino culture, keeping its spirit alive across the globe’’.
One of the attendees, Lynette Khaye Beloso, stated that ‘’The event was important because it gave them a chance to amass energies, create moments with loved ones, and build bonding relationships’’.
The family day featured a diverse array of activities, the highlights of which were the classic Filipino games of Patintero, Kadang-Kadang, Agawan Buko, and Pabitin enjoyed by children and adults alike. The inclusion of favorite Perya games gave more excitement and turned the venue into a kaleidoscope of colours coupled with the cacophony of merry sounds of the attendees.
By allowing non Filipino students to participate in traditional game it created a highly vibrant atmosphere wherein cultural exchange flourished.
During the program, the Guardians Dancers performed a lively intermission number as a sign of their support to the caregivers.
The appearance of 2022 FC Got Talent Champion Julia Anathea Dekant added a festive flash to the celebration with a stunning dance number.
Moreover, the colourful booth displayed of various products, delicacies, clothes and merchandise were showcased by PBCS members.
ATDC alumni from different batches joined the family day for a reunion they had long been waiting for. This event reeked of reminiscing where every participant contributed their stories and experiences formed during the good old days in the center.
PBCS was established in 2019 and has been an integral part of efforts toward the betterment of welfare among Overseas Filipino Workers in Bahrain. It places strong emphasis on health awareness in its mission; hence, PBCS plays a very important role in connecting caregivers with other Filipino expats to form a care-supportive community among these workers.
Recently, the Bahrain Capital Governorate Volunteering Pass 2024 has commended PBCS for its dedication in health advocacy and social community fostering volunteerism and community service.
Alwali Training and Development Center (ATDC) is the training facility of PBCS, a partner with the organization on community service initiatives aimed at improving students’ competencies. It provides Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) with avenues for personal and professional advancement. Situated on Al Hoora Exhibition Road, the center plays a crucial role in promoting community engagement.
An Auxiliary Nursing Program tailored for caregivers and nursing assistants, which can be completed within 6 to 8 months is an intensive program which outfits students with skills and knowledge necessary to survive in the modern competitive world. Further, ATDC offers short courses through licensed and internationally certified instructors for quality education and training to all participants.
The occasion was even more meaningful by the participation of many Filipino community leaders from the Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN), a women’s group spearheaded by Dinah Sta. Ana, Filipino Club Executive Committee were also present namely Antonette Guese, Vhal Haduca and Arthur Basbas. John Pastrana, president of Katilingban sang mga Ilonggo sa Bahrain (KIB) also graced the activity. Their presence carries with it a vibrant sense of solidarity and friendship as a testament to the resilience and bayanihan spirit of Filipinos in Bahrain.
Esteemed adviser of the PBCS, Ma. Yvone Villamor, took the opportunity to extend her deepest gratitude to all the guests and participants present in the said event for their unity in working as one to attain common goals.
