Manama, Bahrain — A community-centered humanitarian initiative took place on April 20, 2026, at the Philippine Embassy Bahrain compound in Adliya, where donations provided by recruitment agencies were formally handed over to members of the Filipino community. The initiative formed part of the agencies’ social responsibility efforts and focused on providing food packages containing essential items to support families in need.
The program was facilitated in coordination with the Philippine Embassy, in response to current regional circumstances that have affected some members of the Filipino community, including job loss and reduced income.
Recruitment agencies collaborated with a specialized food supply company to prepare food packages with the objective of alleviating the financial strain on affected families and providing vital assistance to members of the Filipino community in Bahrain during challenging times.
The participating agencies included Maraeem Manpower Agency, Al Mashaal Manpower Agency, Taj Mahal Recruitment Agency, Um Khalifa Manpower Agency, Al Assoomi Manpower Agency, and Al Mansoori Manpower Agency, all of which took part in the coordinated humanitarian effort.
The initiative was fully funded by the recruitment agencies, reflecting their commitment not only to employment services but also to the welfare of Filipino workers during times of uncertainty and hardship. The effort highlighted the strong humanitarian and professional ties between the agencies and the Filipino community, one of the key nationalities working in Bahrain.
The event was attended by His Excellency Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga, Ambassador of the Philippines to Bahrain, and Labor Attache’, Dr. Orville A. Ballitoc of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO).
Both officials reaffirmed the Philippine government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of its nationals abroad, particularly in situations where they may face social and economic challenges.
Dr. Ballitoc emphasized that such initiatives reflect a broader strategy of proactive engagement, where the embassy and labor office work closely with community partners, recruitment agencies, and local organizations to provide timely assistance and support.
The beneficiary of the initiative was the Kaisahan ng Filipino Balik Islam sa Bahrain (KFBI – Bahrain), led by its CEO, Julius Jude P. Mamaclay and president, Donatha V. Domingo. The organization represents Filipino Muslim reverts in Bahrain and has been active in promoting unity, spiritual guidance, and community support among its members.
Representatives of the Kaisahan ng Filipino Balik Islam sa Bahrain (KFBI), which has 186 active members, expressed their sincere gratitude for the assistance, noting that the support will significantly benefit members facing difficulties. They further emphasized that initiatives of this nature help strengthen solidarity within the Filipino community and foster continued cooperation among organizations and institutions dedicated to supporting overseas Filipinos.
During the program at the MWO, one of the recruitment agencies participating acknowledged and valued the ongoing efforts of the Philippine Embassy in Bahrain to support and safeguard its citizens living in Bahrain. The agency emphasized its dedication to improving collaboration with the MWO by actively participating in initiatives that foster humanitarian principles and community well-being. Furthermore, it expressed its willingness to offer assistance to those who are currently without employment.
This partnership underscores a shared responsibility between private recruitment agencies and government institutions to safeguard the welfare of overseas Filipino workers. Through sustained collaboration, both sectors aim to strengthen solidarity, provide timely assistance, and effectively address the challenges faced by the Filipino community in Bahrain.
Building on this commitment, the recruitment agencies reaffirmed their intention to continue launching similar initiatives in partnership with official entities, particularly the Philippine Embassy in Bahrain, to further promote social responsibility and extend support to communities affected by ongoing challenges.
