Manama: On 12 December 2025, Marilyn Hilario Destreza, 54, from Novaliches, Quezon City, began her morning routine with a sense of excitement and purpose. A housemaid working in Barbar, she made sure to finish all her household chores ahead of time. Typically, the first Friday of the month marked her day off, but on this occasion, she gladly traded it for a cherished opportunity to take part in Paskuhan sa Pasuguan, the vibrant Christmas celebration hosted by the Philippine Embassy in Manama.
Marilyn met four fellow expatriates at Sacred Heart Church in Manama, and together they proceeded to the Philippine Embassy. The short journey only heightened her anticipation. For Marilyn, the gathering was more than a celebration; it was a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with friends and fellow Filipinos and to experience a sense of home despite the distance. Surrounded by her kababayans, the event transcended festivity—it became a vital link to her roots, a brief yet cherished moment infused with the warmth, music, and enduring traditions of a Filipino Christmas.
A Heartfelt Welcome to Kababayans
Ambassador-Designate His Excellency Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga, together with his spouse, Madam Moira D. Gallaga, warmly welcomed the Filipino community and commended their steadfast diligence and commitment. “You exert tireless effort not only for your families, but also in contributing to the Philippine economy,” he said. On this meaningful occasion, he paid tribute to Filipino migrant workers as a gesture of gratitude, recognizing their dedication, perseverance, and invaluable contributions.
He further expressed appreciation to the leaders of the Filipino community for their continued support of the embassy’s initiatives. Highlighting the spirit of Paskuhan sa Pasuguan, he noted that the event also serves as a platform to promote Filipino enterprises and encouraged everyone to support these businesses as part of strengthening community solidarity.
A Taste of Tradition: Lumpia-Cooking Contest at the Celebration
A highlight of the festivities was the Lumpia Cooking Contest, an initiative conceptualized by Madam Moira Gallaga, where twelve talented kababayans took center stage, transforming the Filipino staple into a dazzling array of edible masterpieces that sizzled with creativity and tradition. More than just a competition, the contest celebrated heritage, innovation, and the unifying power of food, proving that lumpia remains a vibrant, ever-evolving symbol of Filipino culinary pride.
After careful deliberation, the panel of judges composed of Madam Moira Gallaga herself, Chef Kevin de Guzman, Chef Bassam Al Alawi, and Richard Martinez announced the winners; Letty Naguit claimed first place, Marjorie Horca took second, and Marissa Vera secured third place.
Cultural Performances Take Center Stage
Each performance echoed across the embassy grounds as the Magalak Choir, the Filipino Community Band, and the Philippine School Chorale delighted the audience with festive carols, nurturing a deep sense of community. Their lively interpretations of holiday songs, infused with heartfelt messages, united people and sustained the joyous holiday spirit.
Festive Cheer and Official Participation
The highly anticipated program opened amid palpable excitement, skillfully hosted by Jeff Andrey Santos, while the raffle draws further energized the celebration, with each announcement igniting renewed cheers from the audience.
In attendance at the event were officials and staff from the Philippine Embassy, including Labor Attaché Dr. Orville A. Ballitoc, Vice Consul Charlie Florian T. Prenicolas, and Celia V. Cabadonga from the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Bahrain.
Skills Training and Community Support Services
Earlier in the day, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), in collaboration with the women’s organization Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN), organized a candle-making skills training.
In addition to the celebrations, the Philippine Embassy ensured that the Filipino community had access to essential government and consular services, with the MWO providing employment contract verification and welfare assistance, including support for SSS-related concerns.
Voices of Gratitude and Unity
Mitch de Guzman, president of the Travelers Tribe Masonic Club Bahrain (T2), shared, “Our participation in Paskuhan sa Pasuguan reflects what Travelers Tribe Masonic Club Bahrain stands for: service, unity, and compassion. It was an honor to be part of an event that brought our community together and reminded us that the true spirit of the season is found in giving and fellowship.” Most members of T2 are Filipino Americans employed at the Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, underscoring the club’s strong ties to both service and community.
Meanwhile, Evangeline Balintec Pilotin, 61, an overseas Filipino worker who has been working abroad for 20 years and serves as treasurer of Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN), said, “The joyful celebration at the Embassy truly reflected unity, friendship, and a deep appreciation of Filipino culture. It was inspiring to see everyone come together to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas.”
Showcasing Filipino Craft, Cuisine, and Creativity
Under a canopy of twinkling lights and the aroma of Filipino cuisine, stalls showcasing Filipino culture and entrepreneurship were set up on the embassy’s grounds, providing local businesses with a platform to connect with the community. Adorned with vibrant decorations, the stalls offered a variety of goods from traditional Filipino treats to handcrafted items and innovative products, giving business owners a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse audience. The event also delighted Filipino expatriates, allowing them to enjoy familiar flavors and crafts they fondly miss from back home.
Filipino entrepreneur Norminda Licban of Lush Glow by Madison Trading expressed her excitement to participate: “We asked to join so we could express support for the Embassy.” Her products, including handmade bags, scented candles, embroidered T-shirts, and mugs have garnered notice for their craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal, making them ideal gifts for special occasions or gestures of gratitude. Licban hopes to support the Embassy’s objectives through her participation while also promoting her business.
Reflections on Unity, Culture and Community
“Opening the embassy gates for a Christmas celebration for the first time is a powerful symbol of commitment to Filipinos in Bahrain,” said Mr. Orlando Fontanilla, President of the Filipino American Association of Bahrain (Fil-Am). “It allows our community to reconnect with its roots and reinforces a shared responsibility to preserve our heritage ensuring that future generations of Filipinos in Bahrain continue to uphold and celebrate their cultural legacy, one festive gathering at a time.
The event created a distinctive environment for the Filipino community in Bahrain and was profoundly touching for many participants. “It felt like home, witnessing Filipinos united,” he continued. “This marks the first time I have celebrated Christmas here in an atmosphere that feels so… Filipino.”
Cherished Memories from Paskuhan sa Pasuguan
For Marilyn, the brief yet meaningful experience at Paskuhan sa Pasuguan was a heartwarming reminder of the strength and spirit of the Filipino community abroad. Even though she and her friends had to leave before the program concluded, the celebration left her with cherished memories of laughter, camaraderie, and the comforting flavors of home, a reflection of how far-reaching the bonds of culture and community can be, even thousands of miles from the Philippines.
