In a collaborative effort with the Philippine Embassy in the UAE, the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and the Migrant Workers Office in Dubai, the Filipino Social Club successfully hosted a Townhall Meeting featuring Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. on September 8, 2024, in Dubai. The event provided a platform for the Filipino community in the UAE to engage with Secretary Abalos and other key government officials on recent developments impacting both the Philippines and the Filipino diaspora in Dubai.
During the meeting, Secretary Abalos highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between the Philippines and the UAE, particularly in enhancing security and law enforcement cooperation. He highlighted the ongoing collaboration with the UAE government in areas such as training and artificial intelligence programs aimed at improving public safety and crime prevention in the Philippines.
“Dinala ko ang ating kapulisan para gayahin ang ginagawa rito, zero crimes… gayahin ang sistema, peace and order sa Dubai,” Abalos said, referring to the exemplary law enforcement system in Dubai.
In response to recent events, Secretary Abalos’s itinerary has been revised considering the apprehension earlier today of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, a wanted fugitive and head of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. Secretary Abalos has stated his intention to promptly return to the Philippines to officially present Quiboloy to the public during a scheduled press conference. Furthermore, he has expressed commendation for the diligent efforts of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in this matter. Notably, Major General Rommel Francisco Marbil was also in attendance at the town hall meeting.
“Bakit ko kailangang umuwi? Because Pastor Quiboloy has been arrested ngayon pong araw na ito,” Abalos remarked, emphasizing the significance of this high-profile arrest for the Philippine justice system.
In addition to discussing law enforcement matters, Secretary Abalos took the opportunity to clarify recent controversies involving a viral photo of him with former mayor Alice Guo. He reiterated that the photo, which had sparked criticisms, was for internal documentation purposes.
“Security and law enforcement are topics that deeply resonate with the overseas Filipino community. We are glad that Secretary Abalos took the time to share updates on key developments and ongoing efforts to enhance safety both in the Philippines and abroad.”, said Ms. Ellanie Villena, FilSoc Vice President.
The esteemed gathering was graced by the presence of Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, Alfonso A. Ver, along with Philippine Consul General in Dubai, Marford M. Angeles, and distinguished members from the Filipino community. Secretary Abalos is anticipated to make a return to Dubai later this week for further discussions with UAE President His Highness Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
During the question-and-answer session, Police Brigadier General Portia Manalad, Chief of the PNP Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC), imparted insights into the procedures for OFWs to engage with the PNP in reporting or addressing incidents that occurred in the Philippines, as well as the programs in place to facilitate this process. Jail Director Ruel S. Rivera, Chief of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, also provided crucial details concerning mental health and rehabilitative programs for Philippine inmates aimed at aiding their reintegration into society after serving their sentences.
The Filipino Social Club, together with its partner organizations, remains committed to facilitating meaningful engagements that strengthen the bond between the Filipino community in the UAE and the Philippine government.
“The Filipino Social Club is honored to have played a role in organizing this significant Townhall Meeting with Secretary Benhur Abalos. This event reflects our commitment to bringing the Filipino diaspora closer to our homeland’s leadership and addressing concerns that affect our community.” Said Ericson Reyes, FilSoc president.