The Bayanihan Council Abu Dhabi gathered more than 200 community members, diplomats, youth delegates, and representatives from healthcare institutions and universities at the InterContinental Hotel Abu Dhabi on October 11, 2025, to mark the 6th edition of its Leadership Summit. Held under the theme “Empowering Futures: Leading with Innovation, Humanity and Unity in a Changing World,” the event celebrated excellence in service, leadership, and youth empowerment within the Filipino community.
The summit highlighted the strong support of Filipino leaders, volunteers, schools, media partners, and sponsors whose contributions helped advance the council’s programs and initiatives. Students from participating schools took part in youth workshops designed to build creativity, leadership, and future-ready skills, while long-supporting schools were also commended for their continued role in shaping young Filipino leaders in the UAE.
“Our mission at the Bayanihan Council is to empower Filipino youth through learning and engagement, and this would not be possible without the steadfast support of our schools, partners, and sponsors,” said Chairman Woderick Pareja. “Their commitment allows us to inspire and equip students to become compassionate, innovative, and socially responsible leaders.”
Eight schools were recognized for their support and participation: Flair Ideal-Paced Academe (FIPA), Institutional Center for Excellence (ICE), Philippine Emirates Private School (PEPS), SRA Institute, SRK Education Group International, The Philippine Global School (TPGS), The Philippine School (TPS), and Universal Philippine School (UPS).
Media partners and sponsors were also acknowledged for helping raise awareness of the Council’s activities and enabling high-quality events and training programs across the community.
The Bayanihan Council’s executive board received plaques of appreciation for their leadership and service. Honored board members included Mr. Woderick M. Pareja (UAP Abu Dhabi), Ms. Emmalyn E. Apagar (FILCOM-Al Ain), Ms. Marites M. Misa (SOUAE), Ms. Lynie Ameena S. Centeno (OFWGME), Ms. Marlyn C. Manalang (ADFDC), Ms. Agnes B. Bon (OPMMAD), Ms. Primrose A. Quinones (PCA-UAE), Mr. Wilmer H. Padiernos (APO EMARAT 121), Mr. Xavier Baldwin Ro-am R. Palma (PICE-UAE), Mr. Alvin A. Hugo (GEL ATN & Welfare), Ms. Rose Anne D. Elardo (NARIAG-UAE), Mr. Gilbert “Abdurahman” F. Agao (LIFE Learning & Development), Mr. Sherwin M. Palle (PIITA), Ms. Myra D. Tandoc (FITS-UAE), Mr. Ednon P. Alcera (TRISKELION INTERNATIONAL-UAE), and Mr. Alfonso N. Halibas III (ADFDC) as Ex-Officio Adviser.
Advisers recognized included Mr. Alejandrino C. Ybañez (APOADAA), Mr. Abdullah M. Ebana (LIFE), Ms. Gay Marie L. Jumuad (SHRPA), Ms. Sherly P. Manalo (OFWGME), and Ms. Ethyl S. Suriba (OFWGME). Working committees were also commended for their coordination and dedication throughout the summit.
“Support and collaboration are the cornerstones of every successful endeavor,” said Ms. Gay Marie L. Jumuad, who served as Event and Program Director and Council Adviser. “Through collaboration, we unite our skills, ideas, and efforts to pursue shared goals… and cultivate a genuine sense of community where everyone can thrive and make a meaningful, lasting impact.”
Philippine Ambassador to the UAE H.E. Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver challenged attendees to continue serving as role models and principled community builders. “We become the example; we become the standard,” he stated. “To all of you leaders here in the UAE—whether in your company, organization, or even your household—you must lead with integrity, accountability, and conscience, and live not just to succeed, but to serve.”
