One hundred forty-six (146) participants attended a gala night and oath-taking ceremony for the newly elected officers of the Philippine Bahrain Caregiver Society (PBCS), recently held at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel in Manama. The momentous occasion marked the notable transition to the organization’s new leadership while paying tribute to the invaluable contributions of Filipino caregivers in Bahrain.
The event was honored by the presence of Her Excellency Anne Jalando-on Louis, the Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, as the guest of honor.
She spoke about the Philippines’ significant contribution to the caregiving sector and commended Filipino caregivers for their empathy and dedication, which really make them stand out from other caregiving professionals globally.
Ambassador Louis acknowledged the visibility and enthusiasm for volunteerism exhibited by PBCS, recognizing it as an exemplary model of community service.
She delivered an exceptional speech filled with touching stories depicting the commitment of the Filipino caregivers. Among the stories she shared was the experience of a caregiver who refused to leave his patient at a critical time while working in Israel.
In the midst of a challenging circumstance, he was given the opportunity to withdraw and prioritize his own comfort and safety; however, he chose to remain and attend to his longtime patient, exemplifying genuine selflessness.
The profound sense of obligation and the bond he shared with his patient moved many in the audience to tears.
This story showcased the compassion and dedication that Filipino caregivers show in their work, highlighting the significant impact they have on the lives of those they care for.
Ambassador Louis officiated the oath-taking ceremony for the newly appointed officers during the event kicking off their term and reinforcing their dedication to promoting the mission and values of PBCS.
The new set of officers of PBCS who took their oath: President, Maria F. Perez; Vice President, Mary Rose Rodriguez; Secretary, Joy Sacabon; Treasurer, Fleur Dubouzet; Assistant Treasurer, Mary Joy Remoroza. Public Relations Officers (PRO) are Jacqueline Natinga and Jessie John C. Roscain; Business Managers, Rachelle Ann Villanueva and Jaslene Anne Saraos; Auditors, Lorna Arenas and Marijoy de Vera. The group’s advisor is Ma. Yvonne Villamor while the moderator is Maribeth F. Perez.
PBCS advisor, Ma. Yvonne Villamor, emphasized in her address, “As we reflect on the purpose of our assembly, we are reminded of the many obstacles faced by those in need and the lives we have touched. Nevertheless, it is essential to recognize the amazing strength when we come together. When we unite as one community, we possess the power to bring about significant change.”
It was announced during the gathering that all the proceeds from the event would be channeled directly to PBCS programs such as first aid, health screening, and caregiving services.
In her motivating speech, the re-elected President of PBCS, Maria F. Perez, recalled the challenges and struggles that the organization had to go through since its founding four years ago.
She noted that the difficulties presented by pandemic have compelled PBCS to establish its role within the community, enabling it to provide greater assistance to others during these extraordinary times.
She thanked everyone for their valuable inputs as partners especially the government of Bahrain and the Philippine Embassy for their support. Their cooperation has been very instrumental in the success of several projects designed for community development and helping those in desperate situations.
Maria consistently recognized the organizations that has worked hand in hand with them. She demonstrated in this manner that through unity, many lives have been significantly changed. Together they have formed a way where hope and support were really exemplified through community cooperation.
However, Rosemarie Hernandez, the president of the Filipino Club Bahrain, noted that this year, PBCS had shown good leadership and cooperation since it actively participated in and supported various community service activities.
PBCS is one of the core groups of FC Bahrain.
As the night was filled with varied performances, speeches, and a sumptuous dinner, everyone is buzzling with excitement waiting for their chances to win prizes in the raffle drawings which really brought a a sense of camaraderie and shared joy among all present.
Among the esteemed attendees were Dr. Lacopo Sbraci, EMD, Evangeline Figueroa Uy, and representatives from various Filipino organizations in Bahrain, including Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN) and the Filipino Writers’ Circle (Filwrite). The presence of former students from the Alwali Training and Development Center (ATDC) have been an additional support to the occasion.
It was a night to remember as Jaslene Ann Saraos and Rhoda Cifra cast their voices rendering the audience in total joy.
PBCS Vice President Mary Rose Rodriguez-Lacson delivered the closing remarks and expressed gratitude to all who have made the event successful.
Joy Sacabon and Catherine Legaspino did a fantastic job as Masters of Ceremony, guiding the program with ease and ensuring that each segment flowed smoothly and keeping the evening lively from start to finish.
The evening ended up giving pride to everyone, attendees with heads held high, filled with renewed principle of community service and proud to belong to a community where dedication, service, and mutual support are well treasured.
The Philippine Bahrain Caregiver Society advocates, supports, and educates Filipino caregivers in Bahrain. This group aims at empowering caregivers by equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and resources that would enhance their potential in their profession.
