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Filipino expatriates in the UAE, including members of the Overseas Filipino Civil Engineers’ Association, join the celebration in Dubai on Friday to commemorate the 114th Philippine Independence Day. Image Credit: Supplied photo

Dubai: A colourful parade and a series of cultural presentations marked the 114th Philippine Independence Day at the Al Safa Stadium in Dubai on Friday, four days ahead of the annual celebrations back home.

The Philippines celebrates its independence from the colonial rule of Spain on June 12.

Organised by the Filipino Community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, the whole-day affair resembled that of a traditional Filipino fiesta (feast) celebration where music, dance, and merrymaking take centre stage.

Two celebrities from Manila — Jennylyn Mercado and Jay-R — flew in from Manila to join the local Filipino community in the celebration.