TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN — The pride of the Filipino community and its spirit were prominently displayed as the Filipino Community (FilCom) in Uzbekistan recently held its significant annual event, “FilCom 2026: Proudly Filipino – Celebrating Excellence, Talent, and New Beginnings,” at the Tashkent International University of Education (TIUE) located in the Yashnobod District.
The event gathered around 116 Filipino professionals and their family members, emphasizing unity, cultural pride, and the acknowledgment of exceptional Filipinos residing and working in Uzbekistan.
A dynamic assembly of committed educators from the Ministry of Preschool and School Education (MOPSE) took part in the gathering, joined by enthusiastic instructors from private institutions. The event also brought together engineers, home-based workers, supportive family members, and notable guests. Adding depth to the intellectual atmosphere were university professors inspired the meaningful occasion. Collectively, this diverse group of participants comprising educators, professionals, and community representatives formed a collaborative network united by a shared aspiration for the community.
Opening Ceremonies and Messages of Inspiration
The program commenced formally with an invocation, followed by the national anthems of Uzbekistan and the Philippines, representing mutual respect and camaraderie between the two nations.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Amor Dela Cruz, President of FilCom, extended a warm welcome to community members and esteemed guests. She highlighted that the event was not merely a celebration of Filipino talent and hospitality, but also a call for advancement, excellence, and meaningful service. Ms. Dela Cruz urged the community to progress with renewed commitment, ongoing self-improvement, and a stronger dedication to giving back.
Honorary Consul Highlights Growing Philippines–Uzbekistan Ties
The event was further enriched by an inspirational message from Mr. Bekhbat Sodnom, Honorary Consul of Uzbekistan, who commended the Filipino community for its unity and positive contributions to the host country.
In his speech, Mr. Sodnom emphasized the growing international involvement of Uzbekistan and its enhanced relations with the Philippines. He referenced recent high-level interactions, such as the International Parliamentary Assembly, which was attended by Philippine officials and the UNESCO Conference held in Samarkand, where several Philippine government secretaries were present.
The Honorary Consul noted that these interactions have strengthened the ties between the Philippines and Uzbekistan, with ongoing discussions regarding the establishment of direct flights and the employment opportunities for Filipinos in the country.
Furthermore, he noted that discussions were held with the Minister of Higher Education and the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Preschool and School Education (MOPSE) to address employment challenges faced by Filipino teachers, particularly those directly recruited, as well as other related issues, expressing optimism that these concerns would be resolved through continued dialogue and collaboration.
Mr. Sodnom concluded his address by extending his well wishes for the community’s good health and resilience. He encouraged Filipinos in Uzbekistan to remain respectful of Uzbek laws, customs, and traditions, while underscoring the cultural affinity between Filipinos and Uzbeks most notably their shared love for exquisite cuisine.
FilCom Got Talent Showdown
The FilCom Got Talent Showdown opened on an emotional note with Mr. Brian Jude Burabod’s soulful rendition of “Broken Vow,” captivating the audience with his heartfelt delivery and expressive performance.
The atmosphere brightened as Mr. Posebal Bayao followed with “My Love Will See You Through,” a powerful and uplifting song that had the crowd clapping and singing along.
A vibrant medley dance was performed by Mercidita Tapang, Yannie Flores, Mercedes Bao, Kane Vanessa Tapang, and Jacqueline Garcia, delighting the audience with their energetic choreography and festive spirit.
The showcase concluded on a reflective note with Ms. Dangielyn K. Rodavia’s moving declamation, “Am I To Be Blamed?”, a stirring piece that explored themes of identity and resilience among Filipinos abroad.
Together, these performances highlighted the depth of Filipino artistry and emotion, turning the event into a heartfelt celebration of talent, culture, and shared experience in Uzbekistan.
Each performer was recognized with 400,000 Uzbekistan soums and a Certificate of Appreciation, presented by Mr. Bekhbat Sodnom, Ms. Amor Dela Cruz, Mrs. Selenge Sodnom, and Mr. Masudbek Baydjanov, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, in acknowledgment of their talent and dedication to the FilCom Got Talent showcase.
Search for Outstanding Filipinos in Uzbekistan
The second part of the program highlighted the Search for Outstanding Filipinos in Uzbekistan, which opened with the reading of the guidelines and criteria, followed by the presentation of nominees by Ms. Ainne Frances Dela Cruz.
For the Private Education Sector, nominees included Ms. Cate Evidente, Ms. Desiree Brigola, and Engr. Eugene Q. Castro, PhD, who was later named the Outstanding Filipino Awardee for the category.
Nominees for the Public Education Sector were Mr. Reynante Sangguyo Bunuan and Mr. Reyno J. Abasalo, with Mr. Bunuan receiving the Outstanding Filipino Award in recognition of his dedication and service.
Meanwhile, Mr. Sherwin Maraba was declared the Outstanding Filipino Awardee for the Engineering Sector, while Mr. Irvin Uy received the same recognition for the Business Sector, both being the sole nominees in their respective categories.
In accordance with the award guidelines, nominees who were the only representatives in their sectors were automatically declared awardees. All nominees received Certificates of Recognition, while each awardee was presented with USD 100 from the Honorary Consul and a Certificate of Appreciation by Mr. Bekhbat Sodnom, Mrs. Selenge Sodnom, and Mr. Masudbek Bayjanov Islamdyanovich.
One of the nominees, Ms. Desiree Brigola, 47, an educator from Sta. Cruz, Laguna, expressed her gratitude for the nomination. She shared, “I am profoundly honored and thankful to have received a nomination as an Outstanding Filipino in Uzbekistan. This acknowledgment reinforces the idea that genuine service, dedication, and commitment to one’s profession and community are appreciated, irrespective of how long one has been present. It motivates me to persist in making meaningful contributions and to engage more actively in supporting and enhancing the Filipino community in Uzbekistan.” Ms. Brigola arrived in Uzbekistan in 2023.
Ms. Brigola, who is currently teaching at Target International School – Yunusobod Branch, is no stranger to recognition for her dedication to the Filipino community abroad. She is also a former awardee in the Filipino community in the Kingdom of Bahrain, honored by the Philippine Embassy Manama for her outstanding service, tireless advocacy, and unwavering support for fellow overseas Filipino workers. Her accomplishments reflect a strong commitment not only to education but also to uplifting and empowering the Filipino diaspora wherever she serves.
Acknowledgments and Closing Program
Prior to the concluding remarks, Ms. Amor Dela Cruz officially introduced the FilCom officers and acknowledged the committees whose commitment and collaboration contributed to the event’s success. The FilCom officers for 2026 are:
Ms. Amor Dela Cruz – President
Ms. Daryl Dellbee Alfanta – Internal Vice President
Ms. Monica Aguilar – External Vice President
Ms. Cecile Francisco – Internal Secretary
Ms. Glory Fhel Ole – External Secretary
Ms. Robwela Noronha – Auditor
Ms. Mariel Ann Pagalan – Assistant Auditor
Ms. Lucille Johnalyn Ilao – Treasurer
Ms. Bemarie Fay O. Guirigay – Assistant Treasurer
Ms. Aiko Joy Espiritu – Public Relations Officer (PRO)
Ms. Maria Evangeline Simon – Welfare Officer
The introduction underscored the leadership of the officers and the collective efforts of the entire team, highlighting their essential contribution to organizing a smooth and meaningful celebration.
Ms. Cecile Francisco, the FilCom Secretary, presented the closing remarks, conveying sincere appreciation to the esteemed guests especially Mr. and Mrs. Sodnom and Vice Rector Masudbek Bayjanov Islamdyanovich for their steadfast support and for allowing the use of the TIUE auditorium.
She highlighted that FilCom 2026 was not merely a celebration of Filipino talent and excellence but also a reaffirmation of unity, cultural pride, and new beginnings for Filipinos residing abroad.
The ceremony was smoothly hosted by the Masters of Ceremony, Mr. Reden Javier Dimaculangan and Ms. Jessamae Jeremias, whose professionalism and engaging presence added warmth and coherence to the program.
New Year’s Fellowship and Community Bonding
The celebration concluded with a festive New Year’s Party, featuring interactive games, raffle draws, and a Pinoy Salo-Salo, a potluck-style fellowship meal that strengthened camaraderie and friendship within the community.
Through strong collaboration and shared commitment, FilCom 2026 stood as a meaningful celebration of Filipino excellence, and solidarity in Uzbekistan empowering the community to continue excelling professionally while preserving its cultural heritage abroad.
Community Collaboration and Acknowledgments
Through strong collaboration and the commitment of its committees, the event became a significant celebration of Filipino resilience, excellence, and solidarity in Uzbekistan, embodying the collective spirit and shared dedication of the Filipino community abroad.
The Filipino Community in Uzbekistan (FilCom) expresses its sincere gratitude to all individuals whose presence, support, and relentless efforts played a vital role in the success of the celebration. Special thanks are extended to the dedicated committees whose teamwork and behind-the-scenes contributions guaranteed the smooth and successful execution of FilCom 2026:
• Masters of Ceremony: Ms. Jessamae Jeremias, Mr. Reden Javier Dimaculangan
• Steering Committee / Floor Management / Program and Invitation: Ms. Aiko Joy Espiritu, Ms. Daryll Dellbee Alfanta
• Attendance and Documentation: Ms. Cecile Francisco, Mr. JM Francisco, Ms. Glory Fhel Ole, Ms. Ainne Dela Cruz
• Registration: Ms. Lucille Johnalyn Ilao
• Backstage and Venue: Ms. Aiko Joy Espiritu, Ms. Lauren Sales, Ms. Monica Aguilar, Ms. Bemarie Faye Guirigay
• Food Committee: Ms. Desiree Brigola, Ms. Bemarie Faye Guirigay, Ms. Glory Fhel Ole
• Certificates, Awards, and Tokens: Ms. Amor Dela Cruz, Ms. Lucille Johnalyn Ilao
• Technical Setup: Engr. Eugene Castro, Ms. Laurence Sales
• Reception and Hosting: Ms. Maria Evangeline Simon
• Games: Mr. Reden Javier Dimaculangan, Ms. Jessamae Jeremias
• Decorations: Ms. Mariel Pagalan, Ms. Roblwela Noronha, Ms. Amor Dela Cruz
Their combined efforts were crucial in orchestrating a well-organized, memorable, and significant celebration, one that enhanced unity, nurtured pride, and reaffirmed the enduring spirit of the Filipino community in Uzbekistan.
