A packed day of performances, youth leadership showcases and community gatherings unfolded at Shukran Festival 2025, culminating in the coronation of the new Prince and Princess of Shukran during a major cultural celebration in the UAE.
At the center of the festivities was the awarding of the festival’s top youth titles, with Prince James Marquez and Princess Nayara Catrin Gonzales emerging as the Prince and Princess of Shukran Festival 2025. They were joined on the winners’ platform by Prince Glyd Maron and Princess Meeckaellah Zoe Madronio, who were named runners-up in their respective categories.
Several special distinctions were also handed out throughout the program. The Best in Advocacy awards went to Prince Jayden Leone and Princess Nayara Catrin Gonzales, while Best in Talent was claimed by Prince James Marquez and Princess Francess Tatiana Lepana Ore. In the Best in Formal Wear category, the honors were awarded to Prince James Marquez and Princess Nayara Catrin Gonzales. The Social Media Award Prince and Princess titles were received by Prince James Marquez and Princess Meeckaellah Zoe Madronio.
Beyond the pageantry, the festival featured a dedicated segment by The Filipino Channel (TFC) with a special appearance by Bela, which drew strong audience engagement and added a highlight moment to the full-day program. The event brought together families, youth groups, creatives and community organizations in a showcase centered on gratitude, cultural pride and unity.
Shukran Festival 2025 was organized by Infinite Communities, led by CEO and Founder Elena Cruz, in collaboration with Sahara Centre Management, headed by General Manager Jened Herytani, alongside Pierre Semaan and Carmi Aguinaldo. Production partners included Manny Johnson Productions, led by Manny Johnson and Bril Juan, with support from The Filipino Channel (TFC), FAB Bank – On Demand Pay It, and Penz Global, led by Anna Bautista.
The celebration was further marked by the presence of the new Consul General of the Philippines to the UAE, Honorable Ambrosio Brian Enciso III, whose attendance underscored the event’s significance to the Filipino community.
A broad network of sponsors supported the festival, including One Fab Shop Outlet, led by Ms. Grace Alzaati as crown sponsor; Philippine Airlines; G7 Coffee, led by Ms. Vangie Orial; Crescent Circle Training Center; Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank; Sadek; Lotus Rice; Terelle Travel and Tours, led by Ms. Veron; UKS Kabayan Souq, led by Mr. Dwight and Noela Cuizon; House of Inasal, led by Mr. Jason; Quality Fix Salon (Gents and Ladies), led by Ms. Eden Aledo; Naderang, led by Ms. Liberty Samonte; BDO Remit; BOTIM; GLOW Aesthetics, led by Ms. Janice Mera Gomez; Nikon Middle East; Fil Arts Guild in the Emirates, with special thanks to Ms. Nelia Fabia and Mr. Ryan Murao; Hayat Institute; Tokyo Talkies; Highlander; Brand GPU, led by Ms. Jackie; Cebu Pacific; and Inasal Express, led by Ms. Amy.
Performances throughout the day were delivered by Dance Your Heart Out Community, Langyaw Kids, Pinoy DXB, Chosen Family Choir, Sahara Kids, Alvin Pancito and the Kalayaan Singers, The Zaints, and Novela, contributing to the festival’s continuous flow of music, dance and live entertainment.
Hosting duties were handled by EJ of What’s Up EJ, Elton Lipanta, Kent Sabehon, Johnny Biryani, and Keribelle of TAG 91.1, who guided audiences through the program. The judging panel for the coronation included Ms. Nazia Khan, Ms. Jenny Casa-Dy, and Mr. Gautham Kapur.
Media coverage for Shukran Festival 2025 was supported by Expat Media, The Filipino Global Magazine, and The Filipino Times, while event photography was provided by Justin Argallon, who documented the key moments of the celebration.
