The Philippine Business Council Dubai and Northern Emirates has formally broadened its internal structure with the creation of two sector-specific sub-committees designed to support Filipino-led enterprises operating in the UAE.
The newly established groups focus on Filipino retail and trade entrepreneurs, as well as businesses in travel, tourism, and hospitality—industries where Filipino participation has continued to grow across Dubai and the Northern Emirates. The move signals a more targeted approach to addressing sector concerns while strengthening cooperation within the wider business community.
Council Chairman Asiyah Monjardin and Vice-Chairman Michael da Costa presided over the launch, which underscored the organization’s push to encourage collaboration rather than rivalry among Filipino entrepreneurs.
Each sub-committee has been constituted with its own leadership team. The Filipino Retail and Trade Entrepreneurs sub-committee is headed by President Babylyn Buchan, with Anvi Caayao-Pante serving as vice president and Sheila Jean Pellano appointed as consultant. The Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality sub-committee is led by President Ellanie Villena, supported by Vice President Randy Ferrer Lamsen and Consultant Mariben Christine Eustaquio.
An oath-taking ceremony followed the election of officers, formally inducting the leaders into their roles. As part of the proceedings, PBC-DNE Director for Compliance and Governance Harold Grecia Orona conducted a briefing on governance responsibilities, emphasizing adherence to the council’s bylaws and the regulatory framework of Dubai Chambers.
“It is always a great achievement when we create initiatives ‘by the members, for the members,’” said Eustaquio, who also serves as Director for Business Events of the PBC-DNE. “These sub-committees provide a vital platform for our members in retail, e-commerce, and tourism to synergize their efforts and achieve collective success.”
The council indicated that the sub-committees will operate within existing governance structures while developing sector-specific programs and initiatives aligned with PBC-DNE regulations.
