38,000+ Filipinos celebrate Philippine Independence Day in Dubai: A day of unity, culture, and pride

Dubai: A record-breaking crowd of 38,000 in the morning and swelling to 40,000 by 8 PM filled the halls of the Dubai World Trade Centre on June 14 as the Filipino Society Club pulled off one of the grandest celebrations of the 127th Philippine Independence Day outside the homeland.

The venue turned into a vibrant tapestry of colors, music, and Filipino pride — from a majestic parade of Filipino community clubs across different emirates to the stunning display of Filipiniana gowns, Barong Tagalog, and cultural performances that transported attendees straight back home. The crowd erupted with pride as majorettes marched to the beat of drums, while students performed traditional folk dances like Singkil, Pandanggo sa Ilaw, Tribu Maguindanao, and so much more celebrating the archipelago's rich heritage.

A highlight of the event was the Gawad Awards, where the community honored inspiring and outstanding Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) — true modern-day heroes recognized for their contributions, leadership, and unwavering dedication to volunteerism and community service.

Opening the celebration was His Excellency Philippine Ambassador Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, who delivered a stirring message of hope, unity, and pride.

“The UAE is a land of opportunities for many, especially Filipinos,” he said. “This celebration is a reminder of our strength as a people. We are here not just to remember our past heroes who gave us independence, but to continue their legacy by helping build the future — for our families and our nation.”

The Ambassador emphasized how Filipinos help shape the progress of both the UAE and the Philippines, and called for the community to “embrace challenges, excel, and remain united.”

Erickson Reyes, Filsoc President, stressed the significance of celebrating Philippine Independence Day in Dubai, calling it a vital event that unites Filipinos in their "second homeland" and strengthens their sense of community.

In an exclusive interview with Gulf News, Consul General Marford Angeles shared how vital events like this are for Filipinos abroad — especially for the younger generations.

“Second and third generation Filipinos here are eager to discover their roots. This event gives them a chance to see their own culture celebrated — through dances, songs, and the shared joy of being Filipino.”

Carmela Lorzano wowed the audience with her powerhouse vocals, opening with “Ang Huling El Bimbo” and delivering a jaw-dropping rendition of “Never Enough” from The Greatest Showman. She hit every high note effortlessly, and when she performed “Bakit” by Aegis, the crowd couldn’t help but sing along with pride and emotion.

But the loudest cheers erupted when heartthrob Enrique Gil made his entrance — not from the stage, but straight through the audience, keeping close to his fans who screamed, sang, and danced with him. Performing hits like Post Malone’s “I Like You” and a soulful “Akin Ka Na Lang”, Enrique brought the house down.

“Dubai has always been close to my heart,” he said. “I’ve been here eight times, and every time, I feel the love. It’s like coming home.”

His presence was the grand finale of the day — and he closed it with a smile, hand-in-hand with the thousands of Filipinos who celebrated the day with him.

June 14, 2025, was more than a date on the calendar. It was a living, breathing celebration of freedom, unity, and the enduring spirit of the Filipino. From every drumbeat to every heartfelt song, the 127th Independence Day celebration in Dubai was proof: no matter where we are in the world, the Filipino spirit shines bright.