On December 13, 2024, the Travelers Tribe Masonic Club of Bahrain, in partnership with Tri-Step Lodge No. 99, organized a heart-warming gift-giving activity. This event brought cheer, warmth, and generosity to nine (9) Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and three (3) children currently residing at the Philippine Embassy in Manama.
It was a touching event symbolizing strength and solidarity while much-needed items and thoughtful gifts were given to beneficiaries. The generosity and kind words shared in this festive season really showed the spirit of giving and community.
Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom Bahrain, Anne Jalando-on Louis expressed her deep appreciation to both Travelers Tribe Masonic Club of Bahrain and Tri-step Lodge for their steadfast dedication to help OFWs.
She mentioned that these groups put so much time into organizing activities, as well as in preparing essential supplies and services to our fellow ‘’kababayans’’ who are currently staying at embassy shelter. “I am glad that you have inserted this activity in your schedule, showing that even on the last day of the year, you find time to share your blessings,” she said.
She further extended her appreciation to the committed officers and members of both organizations during her remarks, saying their commitment is valued so much. “Please extend the Embassy’s heartfelt thanks to those who could not be present today,” emphasizing the spirit of collective generosity and community.
As the program progressed, she warmly conveyed her heartfelt holiday wishes, wishing everyone and their families a Merry Christmas. Her message beautifully reflected the season’s spirit of giving and compassion.
In his message, Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Officer in Charge, Everose Evangelista, extended his gratitude to both organizations for the generosity and for sparing their time to conduct such an activity.
Focused upon synergies, Everose appreciated the great spirit behind the time spent on something meaningful involving the community’s migrant workers. Such a venture remains meaningful not only regarding practical avenues of support but also provides moral and emotional encouragement to those who are away from home.
“We value the kindness and solidarity of Travelers Tribe and Tri-Step, your efforts bring much-needed relief to our distressed OFWs’’, said the OIC. This event has truly brought joy and warmth to our community here at the Embassy, he added.
From the engaging games to the lively dances and even the spontaneous singing, the atmosphere was nothing short of vibrant. The grounds of the embassy were alive with laughter, enthusiasm, and the spirit of camaraderie. It was heart-warming to see everyone come together and enjoy the festivities.
Reign Gumiran and Grace Estacio facilitated the games during the program, their dedication and enthusiasm has helped ensure that the activities ran smoothly and were enjoyed by all participants.
Travelers Tribe Masonic Club of Bahrain popularly known as T2 has consistently uphold the Philippine Embassy as its help to distressed OFWs. The activity was part of the club’s long-time pledge to the Filipino community in Bahrain, specifically those in dire need of assistance or personal struggles abroad.
Although currently out of the country, T2 President Archie Burdeous sent a message expressing the cornerstones of Freemasonry in his own words. “As Freemasons, we believe in brotherhood, charity, and compassion. The giving of gifts is not just a material transaction but an opportunity to reach out with love, care, and hope to someone in need. In acts of charity, we aspire to make meaningful change in the lives of others through those things which are important as a guide to us as Masons,” he said.
As we celebrate this holiday season, we gather to share not only in material gifts but in the spirit of goodwill and brotherly love. May our efforts be an inspiration of hope, strengthen our bonds, and make the world a better place for all.” He concluded by extending deep appreciation to all members of T2 and the volunteers whose dedication and hard work made a difference in the lives of others.
Past Worshipful Master Rob Gardner reflected on the core values of Freemasonry. “On behalf of Archie Burdeous, president of the Travelers Tribe, and the brothers of T2, we pray that today we were able to bring some comfort and relief to you. If only for a moment, we hope that we were able to take your mind off the constant burden that weighs upon you. Keep your head held high, and remember: no matter how bad it seems right now, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Bad times will pass, and when one door closes, another will open. Stay strong, for better days are ahead.”
This was not only a time for fostering the spirit of sharing but also a moment to renew their pledge of standing by one another in times of adversity. Living true to its commitment, Travelers Tribe Masonic Club, or T2 as it is more popularly known, has been steadfastly fulfilling its commitment to support the Philippine Embassy’s efforts in extending much-needed assistance they have been doing in the repatriation services to distressed OFWs. This event marked a continuation of the organization’s commitment to helping Filipinos in Bahrain, particularly those who have personal problems brought about by their living abroad.
Frederick “Eric” Asuncion, T2 coordinator and former president, shared the origins of the gift-giving initiative. “The gift-giving at the embassy started back in 2005 during a Red Cross event. That’s when the Brethren saw the need and decided to donate basic necessities to our fellow kababayans in need.” This annual event has become a cherished tradition.
As the activity concluded, gratitude was expressed to all who participated, especially to the Tri-Step Lodge and their members. “This event wouldn’t have been possible without their support,” noted Frederick. Special thanks were also extended to the Fil-Am volleyball team for organizing enjoyable games for the distressed OFWs.
The event, aptly enough, underlined camaraderie and unity characterizing the Filipino community. Beneficiaries were touched to the core by the generous and kind acts of T2 and Tri-Step Lodge-a reminder that what’s most important was not the material support in itself but rather a reinforcement of how everyone reaches out in time of need.
Members of Travelers Tribe Masonic Club of Bahrain and Tri-step Lodge primarily composed of Filipino-Americans stationed at the US Naval Base in Bahrain, they continue to play an essential role as partners of the Philippine Embassy in charity work, providing much-needed relief and support to needy Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
This spirit of solidarity, which the two organizations truly epitomized, was taken to a whole new level. They reminded the participants that no matter what challenges life may throw at any individual, they are never alone. The event emphasized how collective care and compassion can uplift individuals and communities facing adversity.
During the touching gift-giving activity, five past presidents of T2 were in attendance; they are Alaine Buensuceso, Vic Cabali, Fermin Garcia, Angelo Guevara, and Eric Asuncion.
Their involvement proved that the leadership in T2 was active in and continuously concerned about the well-being of Filipinos in Bahrain.
In attendance was also Captain Noel Escalona, the AFP Senior National Representative to the Combined Maritime Forces in Bahrain, further underlining the importance of this initiative and the spirit of cooperation existing within the community.
Their presence added weight to the occasion and helped create a shared sense of purpose in the support being given.
Bong Guanlao, Jonelle Gumabay, Vic Cabali and the current Worshipful Master; Noel Gumabay, shared their powerful words of inspiration during the program, motivating and energizing everyone in attendance. Indeed, their insights were upliftment to everyone and their respective leadership was felt across.
The gift giving assembly also attended by staff from Philippine embassy and community organizations from Good Cause Bahrain and Filipino Writers’ Circle (Filwrite).
Filipino-American Association of Bahrain Vice President for Internal Affairs, Joselito Sarmiento hosted the activity. His effective leadership and organizational skills fostered a friendly and inviting environment, ensuring that the day’s events would proceed without any hitches.
