MANAMA, Bahrain — In a solemn tribute to the 128th Anniversary of Philippine Independence, officials and staff from the Philippine Embassy in Bahrain gathered with members of the Filipino community and the congregation at Sacred Heart Church for a special Mass honoring a significant milestone in Philippine history on 5th June 2026.
The Eucharistic celebration was led by Fr. Anthony Almazan, OFM Cap., and provided a moment for prayer, reflection, and gratitude for the blessings received by the Filipino people over the years.
Among the attendees were officials and employees of the Philippine Embassy in Bahrain, headed by His Excellency Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Bahrain, along with his spouse, Madam Moira G. Gallaga. Also in attendance were Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Labor Attaché Dr. Orville A. Ballitoc, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Welfare Officer Juvilyn Anns B. Gumabay, and Vice Consul Charlie Florian T. Prenicolas, alongside members of the Filipino community in Bahrain.
Prayers were offered during the Mass for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of the Philippines, as well as for the welfare, safety, and protection of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families around the world. A special tribute was likewise paid to the sacrifices, courage, and patriotism of the nation’s forefathers, whose unwavering commitment and heroism paved the way for the declaration of Philippine independence on 12 June 1898.
Adding to the solemnity of the celebration was the participation of Migrant Workers Office (MWO) staff members Fritzie Bañez and Imelda Baldoz, who served as lector and commentator during the Eucharistic celebration.
In his message, Ambassador Gallaga expressed his sincere gratitude to the Sacred Heart Church for opening its doors to the Filipino community for holding the commemorative Mass in celebration of the 128th Philippine Independence Day
Ambassador Gallaga also emphasized that this year’s Independence Day theme, “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, History), serves as a powerful tribute to the Philippines’ rich historical legacy and the enduring sacrifices of the nation’s heroes who fought for the country’s freedom and sovereignty. He noted that the theme encourages Filipinos to honor the lessons of the past while embracing their shared responsibility in shaping a brighter, more progressive, and inclusive future for generations to come.
The Ambassador also acknowledged the collective efforts demonstrated by the Filipino community during the recent conflict and challenging circumstances faced by many overseas Filipinos. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the numerous volunteers, community leaders, organizations, and individual supporters who selflessly dedicated their time, resources, and energy to assist those in need.
Following the commemorative Mass, staff members of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) distributed packed lunches to approximately 400 participants. The initiative served as a gesture of fellowship and gratitude, allowing members of the Filipino community to gather and share in the celebration.
As part of the Independence day celebration, a grand community gathering themed “Kalayaan, Bayanihan, Bahrain” will be held on 12 June 2026 at Oasis Mall, Juffair. This event is part of a three-day observance of Independence Day from 11 to 13 June 2026, uniting Filipinos from all over the Kingdom. Attendees can look forward to a festive atmosphere featuring a variety of Filipino food, live music, cultural presentations, and family-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy.
