The Philippine Business Council Dubai and Northern Emirates (PBC-DNE) recently hosted a memorable dinner to celebrate the 126th Philippine Independence Day. The event aimed to honor the contributions of PBC-DNE members to the community while fostering connections with other business councils.
The evening began with a captivating fashion show featuring traditional Filipino attire. Terno gowns, embellished with exquisite craftsmanship by Olivia Pearls, highlighted the beauty and sophistication of Philippine fashion.
The event transitioned into a thought-provoking discussion titled “Harnessing the Filipino Entrepreneurial Spirit: Lessons from History for Modern Business.” The panel included prominent business figures such as Jon Edward Santillan, former CEO of Denarii Cash and founder of the rising fintech business OCTA; Rolly Brucales, entrepreneur behind popular ventures like Potato Corner and Off the Hook; and Lito German, CEO of a major Filipino-owned import and distribution company in the Middle East. The discussion was facilitated by Tricia Jimenea, Managing Director & Co-founder of COMCO Middle East & Africa.
His Excellency Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, delivered the keynote speech, emphasizing the importance of upholding the Filipino spirit within the UAE community. Other notable guests included Philippine Consul General in Dubai, Hon. Marford Angeles; Vice President of Business Advocacy at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ms. Maha Algargawi; and Philippine Trade and Industry Commercial Attache in Dubai, Ms. Charmaine Yalong.
The evening also saw the launch of the first PBC Members Directory, a resource designed to streamline connections among members, foster collaboration, and provide advertising opportunities.
Guests enjoyed a showcase of artistic talent by Tribe Creatives, featuring artists like Donell Gumiran, Ella Orencillo, Dexter Modesto, and Gino Banola. The League of Food and Beverage Entrepreneurs (LFBE) treated attendees to a variety of delectable Filipino delicacies.
The event concluded with a screening of the short documentary “Segunda Pulo,” which offered a glimpse into the art of making barong and terno. The documentary was created by Seth Gagahina and Mary Gagahina, with executive producers Babylyn Buchan and Kristine Van Der Westhuizen of The Cultured Group.
In a message to members, PBC-DNE Chairman Edwin Duria expressed heartfelt gratitude for the success of the celebration, acknowledging the support of esteemed diplomats, VIP guests, the Board of Directors, LFBE participants, talented artists, and dedicated volunteers. The chairman looked forward to upcoming projects and events, anticipating continued support and participation from the community.
“Together, we will continue to thrive and uplift our Filipino business community. Mabuhay po tayong lahat!” the chairman concluded.